What is the role of the fullback in a counter-attack situation?

In a counter-attack situation in rugby, the fullback plays a pivotal role in supporting the team’s transition from defense to attack. Positioned at the back of the defensive line, the fullback is often the last line of defense and serves as a key decision-maker when fielding kicks, securing possession, and initiating attacking plays. During counter-attacks, the fullback may join the attacking line, provide support to ball carriers, create overlaps, or exploit space to launch counter-attacking moves and capitalize on defensive gaps or mismatches to advance the ball into opposition territory. The fullback’s role combines defensive solidity with attacking flair, requiring strategic positioning, tactical awareness, and the ability to read the game to maximize scoring opportunities for the team.