Back Positions in Rugby Union: Who Does What?

In 15-a-side rugby union, the seven starting backs wear numbers 9–15: scrum-half, fly-half, two centres, two wings and fullback. They work alongside eight forwards. This guide covers adult club union, not rugby league or sevens, and finishes with a non-contact practice.

The seven back positions

Number	Position
9	Scrum-half
10	Fly-half
11	Left wing
12	Inside centre
13	Outside centre
14	Right wing
15	Fullback

These are the standard union position names and numbers. Regional names vary: scrum-half is also called halfback; fly-half may be called first five-eighth, stand-off or out-half.

The numbers identify roles, not fixed spots on the pitch. Set pieces give players specific assignments; in open play, any player may become the carrier, support player or tackler. World Rugby’s functional-role guidance makes that distinction explicit.

What each back does

Scrum-half: 9

The scrum-half connects possession at scrums, lineouts and rucks to the next attacker. Accurate passing matters, but so do arriving early, scanning the defence and deciding whether to pass, run or kick. Rugby Toolbox’s halfback coaching guidance emphasises these decisions rather than passing alone.

Checkpoint: before reaching the ball, can you identify your receiver and the nearby defenders? Develop this in the scrum-half role and training guide.

Fly-half: 10

The fly-half links with 9 and helps organise the attack. Their distance and depth from the scrum-half should leave enough time to choose and execute a run, pass or kick. They also communicate attacking width and defensive alignment, as set out in World Rugby’s fly-half requirements.

Checkpoint: scan before receiving, then give teammates a clear call. The fly-half guide explores those choices in more detail.

Centres: 12 and 13

The centres link the fly-half with the wider attack. In a basic passing line, 12 sits outside 10 and 13 outside 12. Both need passing, carrying and decision-making skills; neither role means “just run into contact”. On defence, they must communicate alignment and recognise gaps. World Rugby’s centre guidance also includes support around the contact area.

Checkpoint: can you threaten a gap while keeping an outside passing option available?

Wings: 11 and 14

Wings finish scoring chances, but their job is not to wait on the touchline. They link with the midfield, look for useful attacking involvement and work with the fullback to cover the backfield—the space behind the defensive line. These responsibilities appear in World Rugby’s wing requirements.

Checkpoint: when the fullback moves forward, communicate who covers the space left behind.

Fullback: 15

The fullback reads threats behind the defensive line, receives kicks and helps organise the back three: both wings and 15. In attack, they can join the line or support a break rather than remain permanently deep. Rugby Toolbox’s fullback guidance stresses field coverage, communication and timing.

Checkpoint: move as the threat develops, not only after the ball lands. See the fullback role and training guide.

Rehearse the connections without contact

For adult beginners, try this eight-minute, coach-led walk-through after warming up. Use seven backs, one ball and a cone marking a pretend ruck; no tackling, clearing out or contested catches.

1. Set the line: 9 at the cone, 10 and the centres staggered outside, one wing wide. The coach gives 15 and the other wing specific support positions behind the passing line.
2. Move the ball: at walking pace, pass through 10, 12 and 13 to the wing. Keep receivers behind the ball and call before each pass. The two support players move with the attack, ready to receive if the coach calls for a pass to them.
3. Reset: move the cone elsewhere. Each player names their next job—distribute, receive or support—before repeating in the opposite direction.

Progress only when receivers have space, passes reach their hands and everyone can explain their next role. Then add jogging pace. Practise contact separately under a qualified coach; knowing your position is not a substitute for learning tackle and breakdown technique.