Every position on the rugby league field is important but there's just something about those truly elite number nines.
Given they touch the ball more often than any other player on the field, they can change a game in the blink of an eye.
Whether that be spotting an overlap, a quick kick or a blink and you're gone run, having a world-class dummy half is almost imperative in 2022.
Here we look at the top 10 hookers from 2022. As with the previous lists, only 2022s form is taken into account.
For a player to qualify, they must have played more games at nine than elsewhere so Brandon Smith, for example, is not considered.
1. Apisai Koroisau
Apisai Koroisau had one of the all-time great individual seasons in 2022. His efforts largely fly under the radar thanks to Penrith's incredible supporting cast.
In 2022 (NRL only) he crossed for five tries, forced six drop outs, laid on 12 try assists, supplied 13 line break assists, nine offloads, eight line breaks, 44 metres run per game and tackled at 91.2%.
The reason he is number one on this list is his pure importance to the Panthers title win this year. He changed the game against Souths in the Prelim and was near perfect in the decider.
Api's leaving the club next year will be felt. He's close to unreplaceable. Tigers fans, it's time to get excited about your incoming superstar signing.
“The Sharks youngster is the most difficult to place here. On his day he’s magic to watch but there are times you wonder what goes through his mind.”
Yes ! Rating him 6 is too high for him, in my view. I rate Verills more highly.