Veteran tactician Eddie Jones believes rugby is entering a new era where the line between backs and forwards is rapidly disappearing.
Springbok thumper André Esterhuizen has become the benchmark for this new breed of player, with Jones saying the rise of hybrids is the natural evolution of the game.
The Japan head coach also points to the recent positional switch of the Crusaders’ Leicester Fainga’anuku as the latest example.
Traditionally used as a centre or wing, Fainga’anuku started at openside flank for the first time in his career last week against the Waratahs in Super Rugby Pacific.
The All Black speedster has retained the No 7 jersey for this weekend’s clash against the Hurricanes.
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Speaking on the Rugby Unity podcast, Jones said the likes of Esterhuizen and Fainga’anuku highlight where the sport is heading.
“They’ve basically used him [Fainga’anuku] as a ball carrier and he’s a powerful ball carrier,” Jones said.
“He’s got good footwork and it’s a natural progression of the game to develop these hybrid players.”
“Centres and back-rowers are quite similar, particularly if they’re playing in what’s called an edge role outside the centre of the field,” he added.
“I just think it’s the natural progression of the game.”
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The former Wallabies and England boss argues that versatility is becoming one of the sport’s most valuable assets as teams search for that extra edge.
According to Jones, only the front row and lock positions still require traditional specialists because of the demands of scrummaging and lineout play. But even that, he says, is beginning to change.
“You look at how France play. Their back-rowers are basically their jumpers and their locks are their carriers,” Jones concluded.
Photo: David Rogers/Getty Images
