0
With all the discussion of Hooper vs Pocock (and previous selection discussion of the ommission of Hodgson), it got me thinking about why can't one of them play #6. In order to answer that, the skillset desired of openside vs. blindside should be established (obviously dependent on team's style of play). So I took a stab at the key skills and potential differences, but it doesn't answer why one of them can't move to the other side of the scrum instead of Fardy. The most obvious difference is you want the faster of the 2 on the openside to get off the scrum and disrubt the opposing backline, but I don't see anything else significantly different. What am I missing?
#7:
-Strong tackler
-Disruptive in breakdowns
-Handy in the backline
-Speed to get from set pieces to backline
-Doesn't piss off prop in the scrum
-Very good with ball in hand
#6:
-Strong tackler
-Disruptive in breakdowns
-Handy in the backline
-Speed to get around the pitch
-Doesn't piss off prop in the scrum
-Good with ball in hand
If Mafi can go from lock to flanker, and many flankers can play #8, why don't more coaches put their best flankers on the field and quit worrying about "Well, he's a 7 not a 6." I would have like the Force to have had Kane and Hodgo on at the same time.
Thoughts?