Pocket rocket winger is proof that size isn't everything in rugby

Although rugby is a game for all shapes and sizes, the modern-day back has become bulkier than they used to: the bigger the better so the saying goes.

There are a few exceptions to the rule that they should all be following the same build of course. Such is the physicality of the game today, it’s understandable that some teams will pick the likes of Julian Savea, Matt Banahan or Remi Grosso who combine raw muscle with pace.

No less solid, but considerably smaller in size is Scotland’s Darcy Graham who, much like South Africa’s World Cup winner Cheslin Kolbe, has bucked the trend of huge wingers haring down the line.

At 5ft 9 and 84kg, Graham isn’t up there in Savea territory but the impact the Hawick born player can make on the pitch is not to be underestimated. Not only blisteringly fast, Graham is also built solidly and has shown impressive strength in tackles and defence.

It goes to show just how rugby is not actually all about size, but rather what you can do with it.

Graham’s strike rate with Scotland is also impressive, scoring 10 tries in 22 appearances since 2018 in the blue of his country, while he’s scored 21 times for his club Edinburgh.

Here are some of Graham’s best plays, giving you an idea of just how important a cog the diminutive winger can still be.