Legendary ref Nigel Owens drops huge hint over returning next season

Friday, 20 June 2025 at 07:55

byRugby Rucker

Rugby’s most recognisable whistle-blower, Nigel Owens, is considering a return to refereeing after stepping back onto the pitch for a special commemorative fixture in west Wales.

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The legendary official, who last took charge of an international Test in 2020 – his 100th, no less – oversaw the celebratory showdown between Lampeter Town RFC and London Welsh. The match, part of Lampeter's 150th anniversary celebrations, ended in a free-scoring 60-24 win for the visitors, but the spotlight was firmly on Owens.

Reflecting after the final whistle, Owens admitted the runout had stirred thoughts of a more regular comeback.

“I actually refereed here 10 years ago when they opened the new clubhouse,” Owens said. “I always hoped to carry on in the community game, but life’s just been so busy the last few years. If I’m honest, I haven’t had the time. I might start back next year.”

Asked why he agreed to take the whistle again, Owens added: “They asked, and I thought, ‘Quiet time of the year’. It’s great to be back.”

The occasion, which had the feel of a festive Barbarians-style contest, clearly rekindled Owens’ love for officiating.

“It was very, very enjoyable – great crowd, great atmosphere,” he said. “I was quite pleased with myself that I lasted the full 80 minutes, actually!”

Could the sport be about to welcome one of its favourite characters back full-time? Owens certainly isn’t ruling it out.

Nigel Owens ranks the FIVE best captains he has refereed, Richie McCaw only third

The Welsh whistle-blower shared his picks with Wales Online, but from the get-go, he ruled out any Welsh players.

“I am not going to include any Welsh players on my list because I haven’t refereed them in international matches," Owens explained.

"Anyway, these are my top Test skippers ranked, Welshmen aside."

5. Chris Robshaw (England) – The underrated leader

Robshaw might not be the first name that springs to mind, but Owens reckons the former England skipper deserves his flowers.

The Harlequins legend led England between 2012 and 2015, a period marked by highs and lows, but his commitment to the cause was never in doubt. His tireless work rate, leadership, and dedication made him a respected figure in the game.

Off the field, he’s continued to make an impact, supporting various charities and staying involved in rugby.

Owens said:

"Some people will be surprised at this one to start off. His misfortune was perhaps to be leading England during a difficult time, but he always gave everything for the cause, encouraging others to follow suit, and he was a nice guy off the pitch."

4. Jean de Villiers (South Africa) – The classy operator

A leader on and off the pitch, Jean de Villiers was the definition of a class act. The Springbok great captained South Africa from 2012 to 2015, bringing composure and tactical intelligence to the role.

Known for his silky skills in the backline, de Villiers commanded respect with his presence and leadership, both as a player and as a captain. Even after retirement, he remains a key figure in rugby through coaching and media work.

Owens said: "He was not only a great rugby player but also a great leader and a great man. Whenever I came across him on the field, he impressed me."

3. Richie McCaw (New Zealand) – The ultimate warrior

If there’s a rugby GOAT debate, McCaw is always in the mix. The All Blacks icon led New Zealand to two Rugby World Cup victories (2011 and 2015) and had a win rate that most captains could only dream of.

His ability to read the game, dominate the breakdown, and lead by example made him a nightmare for opponents – and a dream for referees.

Owens said: "He’s right up on any list of rugby’s greatest players. Maybe he will be at the top for many people. New Zealand won something like nine out of every 10 games in which he led them, but the mark of Richie McCaw was how he conducted himself when the All Blacks lost."

2. Paul O'Connell & Brian O'Driscoll (Ireland) – The dream team

Owens couldn’t pick just one from this Irish duo – and who could blame him? Whenever he refereed Ireland, O’Driscoll was the captain, but O’Connell was the enforcer, ensuring everything ran smoothly.

O'Driscoll, one of the best centres in history, had a magical touch with the ball, while O'Connell's leadership in the pack was second to none.

Owens said: "I’m classing this as a joint-ticket as whenever I seemed to ref Ireland in their day O’Driscoll was captain and O’Connell was vice-skipper. O’Driscoll actually used to tell me if there were issues with the forwards then I should chat to O’Connell. I found them excellent to deal with."

1. Thierry Dusautoir (France) – The fearless warrior

This might surprise a few people, but Owens reckons Dusautoir was the best captain he ever refereed. The former France flanker was a tackling machine, famously making 38 tackles in one game against New Zealand in the 2007 Rugby World Cup.

A leader by example, Dusautoir never backed down from a challenge and inspired those around him with his relentless work ethic.

Owens said: "My choice as the best skipper I encountered may raise a few eyebrows, but what a captain Dusautoir was. He unfailingly put his body on the line throughout his career – recall the 38 tackles he made when France knocked the All Blacks out of the 2007 World Cup – led by example and understood the game very well."

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