Most athletes in the UK love gambling, and rugby players are no exception. Over the years, many rugby players have been drawn to casino gaming, and most participants are usually hooked on the adrenaline rush they feel when playing competitive tournaments. And casino games allow them to relish the thrill of competition whenever they’re off the pitch.
Of all the rugby players who love to gamble, a good chuck frequent infamous casinos in the UK, like Betfair and Mayfair. Many also play their favorite games in reputable online casinos, which are incredibly popular since they offer unparalleled convenience, safety, and privacy.
So, who are the 4 notable UK rugby players who are gambling enthusiasts? Dive in for more.
- Austin Healey
Austin Healey was once a glorious English rugby player. He played for Leicester Tigers as a utility back. During his career, Healey bagged 2 Lions caps and 51 England caps. Besides Leicester Tigers, this decorated athlete represented the British & Irish Lions and the Three Lions, England’s national rugby team.
Healey has been quite open with his love for gambling. In the past, he was addicted to playing online poker. But his indulgence exposed him to crippling addiction issues and immense financial losses. In 2008, the former rugby player confessed to losing $15,000 to online gaming.
- James Haskell
James Haskell is another former English rugby player with a sweet tooth for gambling games. Haskell was a talented athlete who showed exceptional skill at a young age. He joined Maidenhead Rugby Club as a novice player and later moved to Wasps RFC. He’s also played for the Northampton Saints and England’s national team.
When it comes to gaming, Haskell is an avid poker player. But he’s admitted time and again that although he loves playing poker, he isn’t a formidable player. That is why he avoids staking too much on this casino game.
- Chris Ashton
Christ Ashton is an infamous star in the rugby universe. He’s among the few rugby players ever to represent England in the rugby league and the rugby union. Ashton nailed a few achievements throughout his career, including scoring 98 tries In the Gallagher Premiership and winning three premierships.
Achievements aside, Christ Ashton is also a casino gamer. His favorite casino game is poker. But he keeps this hobby hidden and for good reasons. Gambling has tainted the reputation of many renowned athletes.
- Gavin Henson
Gavin Henson was one of the most talented athletes of his generation. He’s played for numerous teams from 2000 to 2019, including Swansea RFC, Cardiff Blues, the Ospreys, the Dragons, and London Welsh. He retired in 2019 and, like a few other retired athletes, he now runs a pub in St Bridges Major. It’s called The Fox and is located near Bridgend.
Besides his love for rugby and running The Fox, Gavin Henson is an avid gambler. He doesn’t do it too frequently, but he’s known to relish the occasional gambling escapade. But no one can judge him. After all, he’s had a successful career and even dated an infamous pop star at some point.
Check Out Casino Games Today
Chris Ashton, Austin Healey, and Gavin Henson are among many other UK rugby players known to play casino games. According to speculations, these athletes developed a fondness for gambling because, like their favorite sport, this activity is thrilling and exciting.
If you’d like to follow in your favorite rugby player’s footsteps by playing casino games, here’s something you should know before diving in. Gambling is risky. If untethered, it can lead to addiction and hefty losses. So be careful and gamble responsibly.