What does a wing do in rugby?

In Rugby, what's the difference between a winger and a wing forward?

• Hi I played rugby from the age of 9-17, then switched to cross country running etc. I played as a winger, in the backline on the wide right, because I was the fastest player on the pitch. Anyway what I'm wondering is where and what does a wing FORWARD do on the field of play. I was recently asked what position I played when I was still playing and I said on the wing, then my uncle ( he asked the question) said was it in the forwards, and I said no in the backs. I have no doubt or confusion, I was definitely a winger and speedster who played in the back line, but I'm really confused about where and what the hell a wing FORWARD plays and does? Appreciate some answers, thanks in advance

• Answer:

  A lot of countries have different names for the same position, making it confusing at times. A wing forward is another name for one of the flankers - numbers 6 and 7. They're the guys that reside next to the No8 in the scrum and are responsible for defending home ball, competing at rucks, being defensive cover to the half backs etc. Usually either bulky individuals or fast and athletic. The 7 is normally the bulkier of the two, the 6 being faster. The best in the world have both of these characteristics in one.