Second five-eighths

[2][3][4] It traditionally described a playmaking type of 12 with good passing and kicking skills as opposed to the strong hard runner and tackler in that position providing less game-management and attacking options.

Some second five-eighths such as Sonny Bill Williams and Ma’a Nonu, however, combine aspects of both styles of play.

[2][5] The 1903 All Black captain, Jimmy Duncan, is credited with coining the name five-eighths when he decided to take a player from the forwards to add to the backs.

As the additional player stood between half-back and three-quarters, Duncan came up with the term five-eighths according to the fraction between them.

[6] As the game of rugby union evolved, the two half-back positions acquired separate functions.