Joe Cokanasiga kicked off the 2024/25 Gallagher Premiership season in spectacular fashion, scoring a try just five minutes into Bath's clash with reigning champions Northampton Saints at The Rec.
A Journey of Promise and Challenges
Despite the buzz surrounding his potential, Cokanasiga's path to becoming a standout international player has faced hurdles. With only 14 caps over five years, he has yet to fully harness his abilities on the global stage. However, his inclusion in squads under both Eddie Jones and Steve Borthwick reflects his undeniable talent and the belief coaches have in him, even amid sporadic appearances.
World Cup Aspirations Dashed
Excitement was palpable among supporters when Cokanasiga was recalled ahead of the Rugby World Cup. However, his warm-up match against Wales fell short of expectations, leading to his exclusion from the tournament squad.
Today, Cokanasiga silenced critics with an impressive performance. Following a powerful carry from flanker Ted Hill out wide, the ball found its way to Cokanasiga, who finished decisively. Finn Russell added the conversion, sealing a promising start to the season for both player and club.
One fan commented: "You’re not stopping the big cock!!!!"
Another said: "Still haven't worked out how Cokanasiga hasn't played for England more.Quality operator.
Finn Russell Smashes Premiership Rugby Pay Record, Earning Far More Than Any Other Player
Formerly earning over £1 million at Montpellier, Pollard took a pay cut at Leicester Tigers, now earning £610,000 annually.
Handre Pollard of South Africa during the Autumn Nations Match between England and South Africa at Twickenham Stadium on 20 November 2021. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK
Steven Luatua (Samoa) - £620,000
Representing Samoa post-All Black career, Luatua earns £620,000 yearly at Bristol Bears since 2017.
Antoine Dupont (France) - £700,000
Toulouse's star scrum-half, Dupont, commands a reported £700,000 salary, possibly changing due to Olympic Sevens and potential Japanese stint.
Antoine Dupont, Captain of Italy is interviewed during the 2023 Guinness Six Nations Media Launch at County Hall, Lambeth, London on Monday 23rd January 2023 | Photo: James Fearn/PPAUK.
Dan Biggar (Wales) - £800,000
Biggar's move to Toulon from Northampton Saints saw a salary boost to £800,000, making him Wales' highest-paid player.
Maro Itoje (England) - £800,000
Maro Itoje, the towering English lock, has been the subject of considerable speculation regarding his future earnings. While his reported salary of £800,000 with Saracens is impressive, potential hybrid deals with the RFU could see his income increase even further, highlighting his importance to both club and country.
Faf De Klerk (South Africa) - £900,000
Faf De Klerk, the dynamic South African scrum-half, is among the highest-paid players in the game.
His reported salary of £900,000 with the Yokohama Canon Eagles in Japan reflects his status as one of rugby's premier talents.
Cheslin Kolbe (South Africa) - £937,000
Cheslin Kolbe, the electrifying Springbok star, has attracted attention not only for his on-field performances but also for his lucrative contracts. Despite turning down massive offers from other clubs, Kolbe's reported salary of around £900,000 with Suntory Sungoliath in Japan solidifies his status as one of the game's highest earners.
Finn Russell (Scotland) - £1million
Finn Russell, the talismanic Scottish fly-half, rounds out the list as one of rugby's top earners.
His reported salary of £1 million with Bath underscores his value to the club and highlights the financial rewards available to elite players in the sport.
Finn Russell of Bath Rugby during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby match between Gloucester Rugby and Bath Rugby at Kingsholm Stadium on 10 November 2023 in Gloucester, England. (Photo by Tom Sandberg/PPAUK)
Owen Farrell (England) - £1.2m
One report in France indicates that the former England captain could be earning up to £1.2m per season after joining Racing 92 from Saracens.