Nigel Owens is widely regarded as one of the greatest rugby referees of all time. Spanning a remarkable international career from 2003 to 2020, Owens officiated at the highest level for 17 years.
Find your local Greene King and settle in for the 2025 Six Nations!
His CV includes countless Champions Cup and Guinness PRO14 clashes, and he even took charge of the iconic 2015 Rugby World Cup final.
But while Owens undoubtedly has cherished memories of mingling with rugby’s biggest stars, his job wasn’t always plain sailing. Some players, notorious for their fiery tempers and relentless chatter, made his role considerably more challenging.
Since retiring, Owens has opened up about the players who gave him the hardest time on the pitch. Here’s his top five:
 |
Join the RUCK’s WhatsApp community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages.
1. Austin Healey – The Mouthy Maverick
Austin Healey, the former England and Leicester Tigers back, was known for his versatility and sharp wit on and off the pitch. Owens, however, remembers him for his constant chatter.
Owens shared: “Definitely Healey. I only caught him towards the end of his career, thankfully. A wonderfully talented player and a very good pundit now, but he always had plenty to say and quickly assumed I didn’t like him. He’s actually blocked me on Twitter, but I don’t think I’m the only one.”
Healey’s penchant for challenging authority made him a handful for referees, though Owens acknowledges his undeniable rugby intellect and charisma.
2. Dan Biggar – The Passionate Perfectionist
Dan Biggar, the Welsh fly-half and British & Irish Lion, is renowned for his fiery competitiveness and game management. While his passion is an asset to his teams, it often made him a tricky player to officiate.
Owens explained: “Oh god yes, Biggar can be a tricky customer on the field. He’s so focused and so passionate about what he’s doing no matter the game or occasion. We’ve had a few run-ins on the pitch down the years. I mean, it’s always been in a respectful way, and we always have a drink and a laugh after the game.”
Biggar’s ability to stay on the edge of intense focus and frustration made him both a joy and a challenge to referee.
