, Mann opened up about his struggles: “Being out for so long, you start to have those thoughts—will I get back to my old standard? Can I exceed it? And then you start wondering if you even want to keep playing rugby. There were definitely some dark times.”
Gloucester have landed a major signing for next season, securing Glasgow Warriors No 8 Jack Mann on a three-year deal, according to
Mann, 25, was recently called into Gregor Townsend’s Six Nations squad as an uncapped option after impressing in Jack Dempsey’s absence.
The former Scotland U20 star initially broke through with Edinburgh before joining Glasgow in 2022, but his journey has been anything but smooth.
The powerful ball-carrier made his Warriors debut against Bath in December 2022 but endured a nightmare run with injuries, only returning to action last November against Scarlets.
Speaking on the Scotland Rugby Podcast
His move to Kingsholm comes at a time of transition for Gloucester’s back row. England international Zach Mercer is heading to Toulon at the end of the season, having been overlooked by Steve Borthwick despite being eligible for the Six Nations.
Meanwhile, Ruan Ackermann’s future remains uncertain, leaving Gloucester in need of reinforcements.
Mann’s arrival adds much-needed depth as the Cherry and Whites push for long-term success.
From iconic players to unexpected names, here’s the ultimate countdown of rugby’s wealthiest stars.
10. Owen Farrell – £1.46 million ($2 million)
Saracens’ General on and off the field Owen Farrell isn’t just Saracens’ leader; he’s their financial giant too. His loyalty to the club pays off handsomely, with most of his £1.46 million net worth stemming from his Premiership dominance.
9. Maro Itoje – £1.46 million ($2 million)
England and Saracens’ towering presence Maro Itoje matches Owen Farrell both on the pitch and in the bank. With his growing influence on and off the field, Itoje’s salary mirrors his worth to Saracens and England alike.
8. Charles Piutau – £1.85 million ($2.5 million)
A marquee signing with a marquee salary When Charles Piutau joined Bristol Bears, it wasn’t just his skills that made headlines—it was his paycheck. Over five seasons, the former All Black became one of the highest-paid players in the sport.
7. Handré Pollard – £1.94 million ($2.7 million)
A Springbok with serious earning power The lone South African in this list, Handré Pollard made waves when he left the Bulls for Montpellier. Now at Leicester Tigers, reports suggest Pollard’s earnings hit around R15 million per season.
6. Ilona Maher – £3 million
A trailblazer on and off the pitch Ilona Maher’s influence goes far beyond rugby. The USA sevens star has carved out a lucrative career through sponsorships, social media, and a growing brand that makes her one of the sport’s most marketable athletes.
5. Mike Tindall – £9.98 million ($13 million)
The royal connection Rugby royalty and actual royalty collide in Mike Tindall. A World Cup winner in 2003, Tindall’s fortunes come from a mix of his rugby career, business ventures, and media appearances. Despite a few legal hurdles, his net worth is nearing £10 million.
4. Jonny Wilkinson – £20.9 million ($29 million)
England’s golden boy turned financial giant Jonny Wilkinson’s iconic 2003 Rugby World Cup drop goal didn’t just win a trophy—it built a brand. Now the second-richest Rugby World Cup winner, Wilkinson’s ventures in coaching, commentary, and endorsements have significantly boosted his net worth.
3. Sonny Bill Williams – £21.8 million ($30 million)
A dual-code dynamo Sonny Bill Williams has excelled in both union and league, earning a fortune in France and through high-profile endorsements. With a net worth of £21.8 million, his career is as lucrative as it is legendary.
2. Sir Bill Gammell – £38.8 million ($50 million)
From rugby to business titan Once a Scottish rugby player, Sir Bill Gammell transitioned into the business world, building an empire. With a net worth exceeding £38.8 million, Gammell’s success spans far beyond the pitch.
1. Simon McDowell – £39.3 million ($54 million)
From referee to chemical company mogul Simon McDowell might not be the first name you associate with wealth in rugby, but his financial success is unparalleled. After officiating at two Rugby World Cups, McDowell’s fortune skyrocketed thanks to his chemical company, Kilwaughter. His £39.3 million net worth tops the list.
Name the top 10 scorers in Six Nations history
From pinpoint goal-kicking maestros to dynamic try-scoring machines, these legends have left their mark on the competition.
But how well do you know them? Can you guess who sits atop the leaderboard and who just sneaks into the top 10? Take the quiz and prove your rugby knowledge!