GENERAL. The back row must play as a unit and not as three individuals. A flank forward may play left or right on the scrum or open and blind. To be successful the two flankers must work in harmony with the No. 8 forward and have complimentary skills. The whole back row, but especially the flankers, are the essential link in the chain which keeps play moving forward - they retain and recycle the ball and give the game continuity. Flankers probably have the highest workrate - you must have fit flankers that are skilful and understand the game if you are to coach a successful side.

SCRUM. In the scrum, flank forwards must push - that is their first responsibility, they must be acutely aware of what is happening and be able to see the ball in the scrum at all times and defend against any opponent breaking from the scrum.

LINE-OUTS. At the lineout, one flanker normally stands at the end of the line, behind the No. 8 and the other in front of the No. 8 and supports/lifts the middle jumper. The flanker at the end/tail of the line-out should always have a clear line of run at his opponents, especially the opposition fly half. The flanker may also be a line-out jumper in today's game and the ability to coach this skill can add an extra dimension to your line out ploys.

DEFENCE. In defence the flanker must pressure the opposition fly half and in turn all the other backs. At the tackle area the flanker must know whether he can take the ball on, step over the players on the ground and/or pick up the ball, or whether he needs to drive away the opponents.

CONTINUITY/OPEN PLAY. The flanker must be aware of "what happens next" and must be able to read the game

TECHNIQUE AND SKILL. The majority of the Flanker's game is played in close contact and practices should be organised to perform skills under these conditions