Number 6 Rugby – Everything You Need to Know

When talking about Number 6 rugby, the blindside flanker position in rugby union that mixes power, speed and defensive work, you’re looking at a key part of any team’s engine. Also called the blindside flanker, this role sits on the side of the scrum opposite the open‑side flanker, covering the short side of the field. It demands a mix of tackling strength, breakdown skill and a keen sense of when to stay tight or drift wide.

In the broader context, blindside flanker, a forward who focuses on defensive duties, linking forwards and backs, and securing possession at the ruck works hand‑in‑hand with the rugby union, the 15‑a‑side code played worldwide with set pieces, line‑outs and scrums. The relationship is simple: the blindside flanker is a specialist within rugby union, and the position shapes the team’s overall tactics. Good Number 6 players also influence the game’s flow by protecting the short side, freeing up the open‑side flanker to chase loose balls.

Key Responsibilities of a Number 6

A Number 6 must excel at three core tasks. First, defensive pressure: they consistently hit the tacklers, shut down attacks and force turnovers. Second, breakdown mastery: they arrive quickly at rucks, either clearing out opponents or securing clean ball for their scrum‑half. Third, support play: they carry the ball into contact, provide a strong platform for the backs, and act as a safety net when the team is under pressure. Each duty links back to the larger strategy of a rugby union side, showing how a single player can affect the whole team.

Training for this role blends strength work, sprint intervals and skill drills. Players often lift each other during practice – a tradition that builds trust, improves safety and mirrors the real‑world need for teammates to support the Number 6 in tight situations. This lifting culture is part of the sport’s identity and reinforces the team‑first mentality that makes rugby union unique.

When you compare rugby union’s physical demands with other contact sports, the Number 6 stands out. While American football focuses on short bursts, rugby union requires continuous play, and the blindside flanker must sustain high intensity for the full 80 minutes. This endurance factor influences how coaches design tactics: they may rotate the Number 6 less often, relying on their stamina to dominate the middle phases.

Safety is a constant concern. The blindside flanker often leads the tackle count, so proper technique is vital to avoid injuries. Coaches stress head‑up tackling, correct body positioning and controlled aggression. Understanding these safety principles not only protects the player but also keeps the team on the field and maintains the flow of the game.

Rugby culture celebrates the Number 6’s work rate. Fans appreciate the gritty, often unseen effort – the big hits, the ruck clean‑ups, the relentless support. This perception adds to the player’s status within the squad; a reliable Number 6 becomes a leader, setting the tone for work ethic and resilience.

Statistically, top rugby nations like New Zealand, South Africa and England produce some of the most dominant blindside flankers. These countries invest heavily in youth development, focusing on core skills that suit the Number 6’s demands: tackling, ball‑handling and decision‑making under pressure. Their success stories illustrate the link between strong grassroots programs and elite performance at the senior level.

Ultimately, mastering the Number 6 role opens doors to higher honors – provincial contracts, international caps and even leadership positions. Players who combine physicality with game intelligence often transition into coaching, bringing their deep understanding of forward play to the next generation.

Below you’ll find a curated collection of articles that dive deeper into each of these aspects – from technique breakdowns and safety tips to the cultural significance of the blindside flanker in rugby union. Whether you’re a player, coach or fan, these pieces will give you actionable insights and a richer appreciation of Number 6 rugby and its place in the sport.