Former TalkSport breakfast presenter Laura Woods has revealed that she used to play rugby union while at school when speaking on her show last year.
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"Not many know this but I actually played rugby while at school," said Woods.
"I actually played the same position as Jamie (hooker), but got beaten up and injured too much for my liking."
Her split from rugby star:
Woods frequently appears on our TV screens as a sports presenter working for the likes of Sky Sports and ITV Football, as well as on our radio waves for talkSPORT, so it may come as a surprise to realise the star isn’t very vocal about her personal side.
It appears that she doesn’t have a partner in 2022, and is currently single.
Woods, who presents the morning show one TalkSPORT, was previously in a relationship with England international Alex Corbisiero.
However, their romance came to an end after eight years and Laura revealed the break-up was her choice.
Speaking to The Sun, she explained: ‘It was my decision – it was the right one and I’ve never regretted it.
"We’d lived in each other’s pockets and breaking up with him felt like coming up for air.
"The next thing for us was probably marriage and having kids. And I do want that one day – I love being in love and I love kids."
She added: “I’ve prioritised work because I love that too and my ambitions are important to
Top 20 players in the world:
In the ever-evolving landscape of rugby excellence, distinguishing the crème de la crème is no small feat. As the echoes of thunderous scrums and dazzling tries reverberate across the globe, RUCK proudly presents its definitive list of the 20 Best Rugby Players in the World.
#20. Duhan van der Merwe (Scotland)
A powerhouse winger, van der Merwe's size and speed make him a lethal attacking threat. His ability to break tackles and finish tries, combined with his strong defensive efforts, adds a dynamic edge to Scotland's backline.
Duhan van der Merwe of Scotland Rugby goes over for a try and celebrates during the Six Nations Rugby match between Wales and Scotland at Principality Stadium on February 3, 2024 in Cardiff, Wales. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK
#19. Finn Russell (Scotland)
A creative playmaker at fly-half, Russell's flair and innovative decision-making set him apart. His precise passing and daring attacking kicks often unlock opportunities for Scotland. His presence ensures an unpredictable and exciting dimension to the team's game.
#18. Jordie Barrett (New Zealand)
A versatile back, Barrett's impressive boot, aerial skills, and positional awareness offer versatility to the All Blacks. His ability to play fullback, wing, or center, coupled with his goal-kicking prowess, makes him a valuable asset to the New Zealand squad.
#17. Josh van der Flier (Ireland)
A tenacious openside flanker, van der Flier's work rate and breakdown prowess are his standout traits. His relentless tackling and ability to secure turnovers make him a vital component of Ireland's defensive efforts and breakdown strategies.
#16. Aaron Smith (New Zealand
Smith is a standout New Zealand rugby union scrum-half. Known for his lightning-fast passes and tactical prowess, he has been instrumental for the All Blacks and the Highlanders. Smith's leadership and skill have solidified his reputation as one of rugby's premier scrum-halves.
#15. Will Jordan (New Zealand)
An exciting fullback/winger, Jordan's speed and finishing ability make him a try-scoring machine. His support play and elusive running lines exploit defensive gaps. His presence adds a dynamic edge to the All Blacks' attacking strategies.
#14. Tadhg Beirne (Ireland)
Beirne's versatility as a lock and back-row player elevates Ireland's options. His athleticism, lineout skills, and aggressive breakdown work set him apart. An asset in both set pieces and open play, he consistently impacts the game.
#13. Scott Barrett (New Zealand)
A robust lock/flanker, Barrett's physicality and tireless work ethic make him an asset to New Zealand's forward pack. His lineout expertise and powerful ball-carrying contribute to the All Blacks' dominance in set pieces and loose play.
#12. Damian Penaud (France)
Penaud's flair as a center/winger adds a creative dimension to France's backline. His ability to break tackles and create scoring opportunities, combined with his defensive resolve, makes him a crucial player in France's strategies.
#11. Lukhanyo Am (South Africa)
Am's skillful play at center bolsters the Springboks' backline. His defensive prowess, distribution, and ability to create space for teammates highlight his versatility. A player who combines finesse with physicality on the field.
#10. Tadhg Furlong (Ireland)
An exceptional tighthead prop, Furlong's scrummaging prowess and mobility set him apart. His ability to contribute in open play, both as a ball-carrier and in support, makes him a well-rounded force in Ireland's forward pack.
#9. Bundee Aki (Ireland)
A contender for player of the 2023 World Cup by the end of the group stage because of his barnstorming runs, power in the tackle and work over the ball. Aki possess the rare skill of being able to generate tremendous power from a standing start, even against defence as robust as South Africa’s. He is quick too.
#8. Pablo Matera (Argentina)
Matera's leadership as a dynamic flanker is central to Argentina's efforts. His aggressive ball-carrying, breakdown skills, and defensive tenacity inspire his team. A player whose passion and commitment set the tone on the field.
#7. Beauden Barrett (New Zealand)
An iconic figure in New Zealand rugby, Barrett's versatility as a fly-half/fullback amplifies his impact. Renowned for his attacking brilliance, kicking precision, and spatial awareness, he is a linchpin in the All Blacks' strategies.
#6. Maro Itoje (England)
For numerous years, Maro Itoje has been a pivotal force in England's forward lineup. Renowned for his exceptional athleticism and astute game sense, Itoje excels in the lineout and commands a formidable presence during open play. His proficiency in disrupting the opponent's possession, coupled with his relentless work ethic across the field, solidifies his status as a crucial asset for the England team. The early game statistics underscore his significant impact, with an impressive tally of turnovers won and tackles made, further emphasising his influence.
#5. Eben Eztebeth (South Africa)
A towering lock, Etzebeth's physicality and presence anchor South Africa's forward pack. His lineout expertise, ball-carrying power, and confrontational play style make him a formidable force on the field.
Eben Etzebeth, Captain of Hollywoodbets Sharks is tackled by Arthur Clark of Gloucester Rugby during the Challenge Cup Final Match between Gloucester Rugby and Hollywoodbets Sharks at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on 24 May 2024. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK
#4. Richie Mo'unga (New Zealand)
New Zealand's dynamic fly-half, Mo'unga's playmaking brilliance and kicking precision shape the All Blacks' attack. His creative passes, tactical kicks, and ability to read defenses make him a pivotal force in orchestrating New Zealand's gameplay.
#3. Grégory Alldritt (France)
France's formidable number 8, Alldritt's powerful ball-carrying and breakdown skills define his impact. His ability to create momentum with every touch, coupled with his tenacious defensive efforts, solidify his position as a driving force in France's forward pack.
#2. Ardie Savea (New Zealand)
An explosive back-rower, Savea's versatility and aggression set him apart. His breakdown dominance, ball-carrying strength, and defensive tenacity make him a vital asset for the All Blacks. A player whose intensity shapes both set pieces and open play.
Ardie Savea of New Zealand during the Rugby World Cup Final match between New Zealand and South Africa at Stade De France, Paris, France on 28 October 2023 (Photo: Micah Crook/PPAUK)
#1. Antoine Dupont (France)
France's exceptional scrum-half, Dupont's speed, vision, and tactical acumen drive his team's rhythm. His precise passing, evasive running, and astute decision-making make him a linchpin in orchestrating France's attack. A player who dictates the game's tempo with finesse.
Wales Online wrote: "The France captain is widely regarded as the best player on the planet. Former world player of the year Dupont is the complete scrum-half and has the ability to win a game of rugby almost single-handedly.
"If he brings his A game France have a great chance of lifting the Williams Webb-Ellis Cup on home soil this autumn."
