What is a winger?
A winger is one of two players who play out wide. Hugging either touchline and waiting for the ball to come their way.
Traditionally these players had one job: to finish the try-scoring opportunities their team-mates created. But that does not mean they cannot be used to great effect further infield.
Where do they line up?
As their name suggests, wingers line up on the wing.
What jersey number do they wear?
Traditionally, left wingers wear the number 11 and their team-mate on the right flank takes the number 14 jersey.
What do you need to be a good winger?
Pace is the winger’s calling card. But they must also have the strength to barge their way through defences if there is not enough space in which to turn on the afterburners.
Strength and physicality are also useful from a defensive point of view. As is a booming boot, given wingers are often required to kick the ball away to relieve pressure.
Who should I keep an eye on at RWC 2025?
Black Fern Portia Woodman-Wickliffe is up there with the greatest to ever do it. The Kiwi winger has scored a Rugby World Cup-record 20 tries in only two tournaments - both of which she ended with a winner’s medal draped around her neck.
Wales winger Jasmine Joyce has pace to burn while Red Rose Abby Dow and Woodman-Wickliffe’s Black Ferns team-mate Katelyn Vaha’akolo are sure to be high on the try-scorers list in England.
