Nigel Owens responds to international retirement reports

Rugby News
Sunday, 23 August 2020 at 02:07
befunky collage 2020 08 23t020537785 1
Popular Welsh referee Nigel Owens has moved to dismiss reports that he could be set to hang up his whistle when it comes to international rugby.
It had been suggested that France vs England during the 2020 Six Nations earlier this year, which was his 98th test, could have been his last.
However, the 49-year-old is now targeting the century after signing a contract extension with the Welsh Rugby Union during lockdown.
"I'm still enjoying it and my appetite for the game is as strong as ever," revealed Owens, who was speaking to the Mail Online.
"I hope to be involved in the autumn internationals and I'll make myself available for the 2021 Six Nations.
"If Paddy O'Brien thinks I'm still capable of offering something at international level then I'd love to stay involved.
"If not, then I'll just carry on doing what I do at the PRO14 and Welsh Premiership level."

JOIN THE RUCK:




LIST | Nigel Owens selects the FIVE best players he refereed

owens 1

1. Brian O'Driscoll (Ireland)

"Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he’s a fantastic man off the field as well. O’Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader."
1883682

2. Stuart Hogg (Scotland)

"How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He’s so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament."
skysports stuart hogg scotland 4486207

3. Richie McCaw (New Zealand)

"If anybody had to pick the greatest player in history, it would surely be a difficult choice between him and Gareth Edwards."
eight col mccaw moustache

4. Sergio Parisse (Italy)

I’ve been fortunate to have refereed some tremendous No.8s during my career but Sergio is tops. He’s such a talented player and rarely has a bad game.
parisse

5. Shane Williams (Wales)

"He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that."
1590374
loading

Loading