The inside centre, size is not everything.

In South Africa, inside centres have always been, and largely are still, selected for their size and power based qualities or skills. In the olden days and as is currently the norm at high school level, the coach would select a big ball carrying unit at number 12. The main aim would be to try and bust through the defence route one. This worked then - and to an extent it still does in high schools and at club level.

But that kind of approach is fast losing effect the more the game of rugby evolves. The game of rugby is evolving towards a more skills- and technique-based struggle, and away from a strength or grunt contest. This is why positional skill requirements have changed.

Yes, size still plays an important role, although it can be overlooked as its value depends on use. If I want a loose forward in my backline I can just work my game plan to bring one of the three that are already on the field into the line, I don’t need to field an extra one. A big number 12 who has skills with his boot, and an ability to side-step into gaps as well as a keenness to keep the ball moving is an invaluable asset to any team, but an inside centre who is smaller in stature can be just as effective. And there are many e.g., Matt Giteau (85kg), Aaron Mauger (93kg) and our very own Juan de Jongh (87kg)

These qualities are those that are necessary for a fly-half, in fact they’re a standard requirement for any number 10 worth his salt. As a coach I require that my inside centres have a fly-half’s skills set. With this kind of midfield the ball is bound to keep moving to the outside backs and will do so quickly. In addition, the attack will not lose structure if the designated fly-half takes a run and finds himself at the bottom of a ruck, play continues as per normal. PLUS, rotating the first receiver makes it difficult for the defence to target one player through his style of play.