Johnny Sexton will miss the 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup

Wednesday, 20 August 2025 at 07:29

bySteven Smith

Ireland legend Brian O’Driscoll has thrown his support behind Johnny Sexton’s decision not to join the Ireland setup for the Women’s Rugby World Cup.

The girls in green kick off their campaign this Sunday, facing Japan in their opening group match at Franklin’s Gardens, Northampton.

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Sexton, recently retired and transitioning into coaching, was linked with a potential involvement — but O’Driscoll believes staying away was the right call.

“I think he's probably still finding his feet and trying to work out where he can add value,” said the former Ireland captain.

O’Driscoll highlighted the importance of Sexton’s relationship with the coaching staff — something that can’t be rushed.

“And the thing about him is his relationship with the coaching staff that we've seen. And so that is a huge component of his integration.

“Listen, if he doesn't have a relationship with Scott, you can't force that. You need that trust level. You do, and you can't have that thrust upon them. That dynamic is all important.”

For now, Gareth Steenson — the former Ulster and Exeter fly-half — will continue handling kicking duties, as Ireland aim to reach their first semi-final since 2013.

O’Driscoll is confident Sexton will find his coaching groove, but stresses it takes time.

“Johnny knows he's got a lot to learn from a coaching point of view, but I'm sure he's taken a huge amount on board from his experience over the last couple of months with the Lions and that he'll be better for it.

“And also he's finding out what type of coach he is going to be. I think he's probably got an idea, but it's about relationships, about connection, and that doesn't happen just overnight.

“I think it's probably easier with players that he knows rather than coming into the unknown.”

Six most HATED rugby player, list includes Springboks

With legends like Johnny Sexton and Dan Biggar now retired, a new (and familiar) cast of characters dominates the “most hated” rankings, as voted by fans. Two Springboks feature — and one of them tops the list.

#6. Eben Etzebeth (South Africa/Sharks)

Position: Lock
Caps: 131 (as of 2025)
Major Honours: ? 2x Rugby World Cup winner (2019, 2023)

A walking menace on the field, Etzebeth is the definition of a player you love on your team and loathe on the opposition. Brutal in the tackle, master of the dark arts in the ruck, and never far from an off-the-ball scrap. His sheer physical dominance and fiery temperament make him a nightmare for rivals.

That being said, many fans admire his old-school enforcer mentality — just as long as he's not slamming your favourite player into next week.

“One of the game’s last true hard men — and one of the most divisive.”

#5. Owen Farrell (England/Racing 92)

Position: Fly-Half/Centre
Caps: 112
Major Honours: ? England captain, 3x Six Nations titles, 3x Lions tours

Once the undisputed No.1 on this list, Farrell has seen the hate ease up a bit since stepping away from England duty in 2024. But don’t be fooled — his infamous “shoulder-first” tackling style, fiery competitiveness, and snarling leadership still rile up fans and pundits alike.

Farrell's critics point to repeated high tackles and lenient disciplinary treatment, while supporters admire his elite mentality and unwavering loyalty.

RUCK Verdict:
“Still England’s pantomime villain — unless he’s your guy. Then he walks on water.”

#4. Stuart Hogg (Scotland)

Position: Full-Back
Caps: 100
Major Honours: ? British & Irish Lions (2013, 2017, 2021), 2x Six Nations Player of the Championship

Hogg's fall from grace has been swift and sad. Once a beloved figure in Scottish rugby and known for his attacking brilliance, recent headlines have painted a darker picture. Legal issues and personal controversies have led to widespread public criticism.

Despite his stunning career on the pitch, it’s his off-field actions — including pleading guilty to prolonged domestic abuse — that have landed him on this list.

RUCK Verdict:
“A tragic descent from fan favourite to tabloid target.”

#3. Tomás Lavanini (Argentina)

Position: Lock
Caps: 86
Major Honours: ? Key figure in Pumas’ historic wins over All Blacks and England

When you think of disciplinary records, you think Lavanini. The towering Argentine has earned a reputation as rugby’s ultimate red card magnet. Reckless tackles, repeated bans, and a total disregard for subtlety define his chaotic playing style.

He’s cleaned up his act — somewhat — in recent years, but the image of him flying into a ruck like a missile is hard to forget.

RUCK Verdict:
“A walking yellow card — and somehow still box office.”

#2. Israel Folau (Australia & Tonga)

Position: Full-Back/Wing
Caps: 73 (Australia), 6 (Tonga)
Major Honours: ? Waratahs Super Rugby Champion, dual international (NRL & rugby union)

Once a generational talent and one of the most exciting backs in world rugby, Folau’s downfall was fast and public. In 2019, he was sacked by Rugby Australia after posting a series of homophobic social media messages — citing his religious beliefs.

He took legal action for unfair dismissal, resulting in a confidential settlement. Folau later switched allegiance to represent Tonga under World Rugby’s eligibility changes. His return has sparked both support and outrage — no middle ground here.

RUCK Verdict:
“A career undone by controversy. From electric to exiled — and back again.”

#1. Jaden Hendrikse (South Africa/Sharks)

Position: Scrum-Half
Caps: 20
Major Honours: ? Rugby World Cup winner (2023)

The latest entry, and a surprising one at that. Hendrikse earned fans’ ire after his antics in the URC quarter-final vs Munster, where he appeared to fake cramp and delay a crucial kick — before winking at Jack Crowley on the turf. Yes, really.

The mind games might have worked, but it struck many as unsportsmanlike, especially on such a big stage. His place at the top of this list shows how quickly reputations can sour — even for a young World Cup winner.

RUCK Verdict:
“New kid on the block — and already public enemy number one.”

Can You Name Every 2021 British & Irish Lions Player?

Think you remember the 2021 Lions tour of South Africa? It’s been a few years since that brutal, bruising, and controversial Test series — but true rugby heads never forget.

RUCK’s Lions content is powered by ISUZU.

42 players were named in Warren Gatland’s final squad
The Lions won the First Test 22-17, but the Springboks hit back to win the series 2-1
The decider? A gritty 19-16 Springbok victory that still stings for many fans

Now it's time to test your memory.