Top 5: Blindside Flankers

The blindside flanker position in rugby is often seen as one of the most demanding. A blindside flanker’s role goes beyond just tackling; they are often involved in every aspect of play—whether it’s securing a turnover, making a big hit, or supporting an attack. To be successful in this position, a player needs a blend of speed, power, and game intelligence. While it’s tough to say definitively who the best are, here’s a list of the top five blindside flankers in the world, based on their recent performances and their ability to consistently make a difference on the field. Let’s dive into it!

1. Siya Kolisi

Siya Kolisi is widely regarded as one of the most influential blindside flankers in world rugby today. The South African captain, who led his team to victory in the 2019 Rugby World Cup, has been instrumental in the Springboks’ success over the years. Known for his leadership, Kolisi’s ability to read the game and make crucial tackles in key moments sets him apart. His work at the breakdown is also exceptional, and he has an uncanny knack for winning turnovers at crucial moments in the game. His combination of strength and speed makes him one of the most well-rounded flankers out there.

2. Michael Hooper

Australia’s Michael Hooper has been a standout player for years. His tireless work rate and defensive capabilities make him one of the top blindside flankers in rugby. Hooper is also known for his leadership qualities and has captained the Wallabies for numerous years. He has the ability to consistently perform under pressure, and his tackling technique is often pinpoint accurate. Although his size may not be as imposing as some of his competitors, Hooper makes up for it with his speed, endurance, and technical skill in the breakdowns. He’s always around the ball and plays a massive role in disrupting the opposition’s game plan.

3. Duane Vermeulen

Duane Vermeulen is a powerhouse on the field. With his incredible strength and physical presence, Vermeulen has earned a reputation as one of the most fearsome blindside flankers in rugby. His skill set is not limited to just hard hits and scrums, however. He has impressive ball-carrying abilities and has shown time and time again that he can power through tackles. What sets him apart from other players is his ability to be a disruptive force at both ends of the field. Vermeulen has been a key figure in South Africa’s recent successes, and his performances at the 2019 Rugby World Cup only solidified his place as one of the best in the game.

4. Alun Wyn Jones

Alun Wyn Jones might be more well-known as a lock, but his ability to play as a blindside flanker is something special. His leadership skills are unquestionable, and his consistency on the field is unmatched. Jones’ strength in the scrum, his work rate in the rucks, and his ability to win lineouts make him an incredible asset in the back row. His tactical understanding of the game allows him to anticipate and react quickly to changes on the field. While not as flashy as other flankers, Jones’ dependability and physical presence make him a key player in Wales’ forward pack.

5. Jack Conan

Jack Conan has made a real name for himself as a blindside flanker, particularly with his performances for Ireland. His combination of raw power, tactical awareness, and exceptional handling skills has made him a standout player. Conan’s ability to carry the ball with power and find gaps in opposition defenses has been key to Ireland’s attacking success. On top of that, his work around the breakdown is vital for securing possession, and he’s not afraid to get stuck in and make crucial tackles. Conan’s relentless approach to the game has earned him a well-deserved spot among the top blindside flankers.

Conclusion

Blindside flankers are some of the hardest-working players on the field, and the top players in this position need to be able to do everything—defend, attack, and support their teammates. Each of the players listed above brings something unique to the table, whether it’s Kolisi’s leadership, Hooper’s tireless energy, or Vermeulen’s brute strength. As rugby evolves, the role of the blindside flanker will continue to be one of the most vital positions in the game, and these five players represent the best of what the position has to offer. While opinions may vary, these players have consistently proven themselves at the highest levels, and their performances have made a real impact on the game.