In the world of rugby league, the strategic deployment of fullbacks is a fascinating aspect of the game that often goes unnoticed by casual viewers. The recent Parramatta versus Canberra game provided an intriguing insight into this strategy, with Fox Sports commentator Luke Keary highlighting the importance of Kaeo Weekes' positioning for the Raiders. This sparked a deeper question: just how many NRL teams restrict their fullbacks to one side of the field in attack? And if so, which side is it?
My analysis of the data reveals a clear trend towards right-side dominance in fullback play. Since 2020, the percentage point difference between the share of receipts on the left and right sides of the field has grown from 7.9% to 21% in 2026. This season, 60.5% of fullback touches within 40 metres of the tryline are on the right side, with just 39.5% on the left side. The top four most single-sided fullbacks in attack this year are all from teams under the influence of Ivan Cleary or his disciples, with the Warriors' Taine Tuaupiki taking the top spot.
What's particularly interesting is the shift in coaching strategies. Prior to Webster's arrival at the Warriors, fullbacks were primarily used on the left side. However, once Webster took over, the team became very right-side dominant, with Tuaupiki taking the top spot with more than 80% difference between his right and left side touches. This trend is not unique to the Warriors, with other teams under Cleary's influence also showing a strong preference for the right side.
The implications of this trend are significant. It suggests that the traditional notion of the fullback as a side-agnostic position is becoming less relevant. Instead, teams are increasingly using their fullbacks as a weapon on one side of the field, with the right side being the preferred choice. This shift in strategy has a profound impact on the game, as it forces defenses to adapt and adjust their tactics to counter this new approach.
In conclusion, the strategic deployment of fullbacks is a critical aspect of rugby league that is evolving rapidly. The trend towards right-side dominance is a fascinating development that is reshaping the game and forcing defenses to adapt. As the sport continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how this trend develops and whether it leads to new and innovative strategies on the field.
