Will Carling has sprung to the defence of Nigel Owens over the ‘unnecessary, snide and ever so slightly hypocritical’ comments the Welsh referee has been subjected to in the last 10 days.
The former England skipper took to social media backing a column from Owens , after former England international Austin Healey had questioned whether the celebrity status of the hugely popular Welsh official has made him “too big to referee”.
“Sad to see the criticism of Nigel Owens,” wrote Carling.
“So easy to dig when you forget the torturous path some have had to take. Bravo Nigel.”
He added: “Just thought it was unnecessary, snide and ever so slightly hypocritical.”
sad to see criticism of @Nigelrefowens – vast majority comes from jealousy of a man who through hard work & mental strength (against huge odds) has made a great success of himself. So easy to dig when you forget the torturous path some have had to take. Bravo Nigel
— Will Carling (@willcarling) April 16, 2018
Thanks for your kind words Will. Means a lot. Am not above being criticised especially when just like any other human being I make a mistake. But as long as its measured and fair and for the right reason.
— Nigel Owens MBE (@Nigelrefowens) April 16, 2018
Nigel, as we both know, I am perfect, have never made any mistakes – which is rare I know!! 😲😲😂 Opinions on your refereeing is fine with me, it is the other accusations I have no time for at all. Catch up soon I hope
— Will Carling (@willcarling) April 16, 2018