*whisper* I think ML is Keef

Wellens is an ex scrum half with great passing ability. Slater's got a good passing game too.

All fullbacks need to be able to pass like a halfback these days.

Not sure it's quite that simplistic Richie. I think that either of your Loose Forward or Fullback need to be able to play an extra pivot role. Usually its the Fullback because this means you can go with an extra prop in the 13 jersey, but for me that's probably down to a lack of really good props in SL (Peacock is still considered good enough to Captain England as an example) and also the structure of attack.

Just because Wigan do it with Tomkins, doesn't mean it's compulsary. It's about getting the best out of the players you have on the roster, and giving them a structure that they understand and can implement.

Can you think of many top level fullbacks that aren't good ball players? I thought Radlinski was the last of the "support player" breed of FBs.

In Australia - most are line runners, Ben Barba jumps to mind, Molzten at Wests is another in the SL Greg Eden at the Giants.

Hardaker can pass he just doesn't have an instinct to use the pass as a means of creating an opportunity.

I was about to say Greg Eden too. He looks a great prospect yet he doesn't play the playmaker sort of role. Ideally a FB should be able to do both very well, that's what makes Slater and Tomkins so good.