Prop
The props "prop up" the hooker in the scrum.[26] They form part of the front row of the scrum and push against the oppositions props. The loosehead
prop is positioned to the left of the hooker and their head will be on the outside of the scrum when it engages. The tighthead is to the right of the
hooker with their head positioned between the opposition hooker and the opposition loosehead prop.[26] The prop's main role is to provide stability at
the scrum and support the hooker in quickly winning the ball.[98] At the line-out the prop's role is to support the jumper as they compete for the
ball. They are usually positioned at the front of the line-out with a jumper in between them. They are also often involved in lifting jumpers when
receiving kick-offs.[95] While scrummaging is still seen as their main responsibility, modern props are also expected to contribute in attack and
defence.[98]
Props have to take in pressure from the locks and loose forwards pushing from behind and the opposition pushing against them, so they are often among
the strongest players in a team. Some of the more successful props have short necks and broad shoulders to absorb this force as well as powerful legs
to drive the scrum forward.[98] Since the game has become professional non-specialist props or hookers cannot play in the front row. If, through
sendings-off or injuries, a team does not have enough specialist front row players, the scrums become 'uncontested' (i.e. no pushing is allowed and
the team putting the ball into the scrum wins it).[96] On their own scrum, the loosehead's role is to provide the hooker with a clear view to strike
the ball, while the tighthead tries to keep the scrum stable.[99] When the opposition is putting the ball in, the tighthead attempts to disrupt the
opposing hooker or loosehead, making it difficult for them to win the ball.[99]
Props in the International Rugby Hall of Fame include: Jason Leonard (England and Lions), Syd Millar (Ireland and Lions) and Wilson Whineray (New
Zealand). |
