The Titans of the Second Row: Unlocking the Secrets of Rugby's Modern Locks
Rugby’s second row has always been a battleground for giants, but in today’s game, the role of the lock has evolved into something far more dynamic. It’s no longer just about brute strength or towering height—though those certainly help. Modern locks are expected to be all-rounders: lineout maestros, breakdown disruptors, and even ball-carrying threats. So, when I saw the latest rankings of the world’s top locks, I couldn’t help but dive deeper into what makes these players stand out.
The Veteran vs. the Rising Star: A Tale of Two Generations
One thing that immediately stands out is the contrast between Eben Etzebeth, the 34-year-old Springbok legend, and Warner Dearns, the 24-year-old Japanese prodigy. Etzebeth, sitting at the top of the list, is a testament to longevity and consistency. What many people don’t realize is that his dominance isn’t just about physicality—it’s about his ability to adapt. Even as the game has sped up, he’s remained a force, proving that experience can trump youth in the right hands.
Dearns, on the other hand, represents the future. His athleticism and technical prowess are undeniable, but what’s truly fascinating is his potential to redefine the position. If you take a step back and think about it, players like Dearns are part of a new wave of locks who are as comfortable in open play as they are in the set piece. This raises a deeper question: are we witnessing the evolution of the lock into a more versatile, almost hybrid role?
The Workhorses: Why Endurance Matters
Another trend that jumps out is the sheer workload these players are putting in. Take Andrea Zambonin, for example. The Italian lock has played 41 games this season—a staggering number for a position that’s physically demanding. Personally, I think this highlights a broader shift in rugby: the modern lock isn’t just a specialist; they’re a cornerstone of both club and country.
This endurance isn’t just about fitness; it’s about mental toughness. Players like James Ryan and Joe McCarthy, both from Leinster, have lost just six matches in two seasons. That kind of consistency doesn’t happen by accident. It’s a combination of skill, preparation, and a winning mentality. From my perspective, this is where the real value of a top-tier lock lies—not just in their ability to perform, but in their ability to perform under pressure, week after week.
The Underrated Versatility of the Modern Lock
A detail that I find especially interesting is the versatility of players like Ollie Chessum. Capable of playing both lock and blindside flanker, Chessum embodies the modern rugby player’s need to be adaptable. This isn’t just about filling a gap in the squad; it’s about adding layers to a team’s strategy. What this really suggests is that the traditional boundaries between forward positions are blurring, and that’s a game-changer.
This versatility also speaks to the intelligence required in the role. Locks like Maro Itoje aren’t just physical specimens; they’re tactical thinkers. His leadership, both for England and Saracens, shows that the best locks are often the ones who can read the game as well as they can dominate it.
The Future of the Position: What’s Next?
If there’s one thing this list makes clear, it’s that the lock position is in good hands. But what’s next? I’d argue that the future lies in even greater specialization within versatility. Players like Tupou Vaa’i, who combines technical skill with leadership, are setting the bar for what’s possible. As the game continues to evolve, we’ll likely see locks who are not just good at everything, but exceptional at a few key areas.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the global spread of talent. From South Africa’s Etzebeth to Japan’s Dearns, the position is no longer dominated by traditional rugby powerhouses. This globalization is not just about diversity; it’s about innovation. Different rugby cultures bring different approaches, and that can only enrich the game.
Final Thoughts: The Lock as the Heart of the Pack
In my opinion, the lock is the most underrated yet pivotal position in rugby. They’re the engine room, the thinkers, and the enforcers all rolled into one. What this list shows is that the best locks aren’t just physically imposing—they’re complete players who can influence every aspect of the game.
As we look ahead to the 2027 Rugby World Cup, I’m excited to see how these players continue to push the boundaries. Whether it’s Etzebeth’s relentless aggression or Dearns’s technical brilliance, one thing is certain: the second row will remain the heart of the pack, and the players who occupy it will continue to shape the future of rugby.
So, the next time you watch a match, don’t just focus on the tries or the tackles. Take a moment to appreciate the locks—because, in many ways, they’re the ones holding it all together.
