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.
8. Lachlan Croker
Manly 25 year-old utility was one of the Sea Eagles rare consistent performers in 2022. He can be very happy with his efforts in a disrupted squad.
In his 23 games, all starting in the number nine role, he crossed for four tries, assisted six tries and four line breaks, forced two drop outs and had eight offloads.
Croker was originally thrown into the role due to circumstance but has really honed his craft. His defence, at just a touch over 90% efficiency, stands above a lot of his teammates.
Very few Manly players can truly hold their head up high in 2022 and Croker is one of those.
“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.