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.
9. Zac Woolford
Zac Woolford was a literal million to one to appear on this list in the pre-season. His move to Canberra came despite his not being first choice for the Sharks feeder team.
Fair to say he rewarded coach Ricky Stuart and made the veteran coach look very, very clever. He delivered in a big way in his rookie NRL season.
17 games saw him set up eight tries, create five line break assists, force a drop out and tackle at almost 96% efficiency.
His running game will develop with experience but Woolford's solid run on efforts allowed Tom Starling to create havoc upon coming onto the field.
“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.