Statement: Sale Sharks respond to fan 'abusing' Owen Farrell - Ruck

Statement: Sale Sharks respond to fan ‘abusing’ Owen Farrell

Sale Sharks have slammed a viral video clip that shows one of their supporters directing verbal abuse at former England captain Owen Farrell.

Farrell has opted for a hiatus from international rugby to focus on the mental well-being of himself and his family. Consequently, he will be unavailable for the 2024 Six Nations selection. 

Nevertheless, Farrell will maintain his role as a player for Saracens and continue to lead the club as its captain.

The fly-half faced significant challenges throughout the Rugby World Cup. Fans from both England and opposing nations directed intense hostility toward the fly-half in every match he played. 

The clubs said in a statement: “Sale Sharks is aware of a video being circulated on social media which appears to show one of the club’s supporters directing abuse at Owen Farrell.

“The club strongly condemns the use of language of this nature at what was an extremely family friendly event. We are now consulting with the RFU and Premiership Rugby on the matter.”

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England’s unavailable XV:

15. Jack Nowell (La Rochelle)

14. Jonny May (Gloucester)

13. Joe Marchant (Stade Francais)

12. Owen Farrell (Saracens)

11. Christian Wade (Racing 92)

10. Zack Henry (Pau)

9. Ben Youngs (Leicester Tigers)

1. Harry Williams (Montpellier)

2. Jack Singleton (Toulon)

3. Kieran Brookes (Toulon)

4. David Ribbans (Toulon)

5. Courtney Lawes (Northampton Saints)

6. Tom Curry (Sale Sharks)

7. Jack Willis (Toulouse)

8. Sam Simmonds (Montpellier)

Contenders to replace Owen Farrell as captain

#1. Ellis Genge – Favourite

England’s head coach, Borthwick, has hinted at Ellis Genge, the front-rower, emerging as the next captain. Borthwick appointed Genge as the England vice-captain, and their successful collaboration in winning the Premiership with Leicester solidifies this choice for future success. Genge’s leadership potential looks bright, relying on his ongoing role as England’s primary player in the number one position.

Ellis Genge, Captain of England during the Summer Nations Series Rugby match between Wales and England at Principality Stadium on August 5, 2023 in Cardiff, Wales. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK

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