Owen Farrell's brother set to join first professional club following impressive performances

Friday, 22 March 2024 at 09:41

byRugby Rucker

Andy Farrell, gearing up for Ireland's crucial Six Nations clash against Scotland, took a moment to witness his son Gabriel's triumph in an under-13s schools fixture for Blackrock College.

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Following Gabriel's success, Farrell jestingly remarked, "I actually said to him [Gabriel] after the game ‘You put us under pressure!’ Because imagine him winning this morning and us not winning. I’d have been massively in trouble!”

Gabriel, potentially eligible to represent Ireland in the future either through residency or ancestry, showcased his talent in the game. With an older brother, Owen, holding the record for England's all-time highest points scorer, Gabriel's rugby pedigree is noteworthy.

The possibility of him donning the green jersey isn't far-fetched, especially given Blackrock College's renowned reputation for nurturing rugby talent. He's already reportedly on Leinster's radar as a future prospect.

Reflecting on Gabriel's victory, Farrell humorously acknowledged the added pressure it would've brought had Ireland not succeeded in their match.

The under-13s fixture served as a warm-up for the Senior Cup final between Blackrock and St Michael's, a highly anticipated event held at the RDS and televised, drawing thousands of fans annually.

Farrell emphasized the intensity and competitiveness of junior rugby, underscoring its significance in shaping Irish rugby culture. "It is huge. Did you see the rivalry, the competitiveness at under-13s this morning? It’s magnificent, isn’t it? That’s what makes Irish rugby special," he noted.

England’s 40 Greatest Ever Rugby Union Players – Owen Farrell 10th

Below is our rundown of the top 40 players to proudly wear the iconic white jersey.

40 best English rugby players of all-time

#40. Wade Dooley

Renowned English lock known for his towering height and physicality. Capped multiple times for England and played a crucial role in the national team's success in the late 1980s.

#98. Manu Tuilagi

Dynamic English center renowned for his strength, speed, and devastating ball-carrying abilities. A powerful presence on the field, known for breaking tackles and creating scoring opportunities.

Manu Tuilagi of England during the Autumn Nations Match between England and Tonga at Twickenham Stoop on 6 November 2021. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK

#38. Dylan Hartley

Former England captain and hooker, known for his tenacity and leadership skills. Led England to multiple victories and was a key figure in the team's success during the Eddie Jones era.

#37. Maggie Alphonsi

Renowned former England rugby player and trailblazer in women's rugby. Alphonsi excelled as a flanker, known for her ferocious tackling, speed, and relentless work rate. A World Cup winner in 2014, she has made a lasting impact on the sport, inspiring future generations of female rugby players.

#36. Trevor Woodman

Retired English prop known for his expertise in the scrum. A World Cup winner in 2003, Woodman's technical skills and strength made him a formidable force in the front row.

#35. Kyran Bracken

Former England scrum-half who was a key contributor during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Known for his quick thinking, accurate passing, and strategic decision-making.

#34. Billy Vunipola

Powerful English number eight known for his physicality and ball-carrying abilities. A key player in both the national team and Saracens, bringing impact and strength to every game.

Billy Vunipola of England in possession ahead of Kazuki Himeno of Japan during the Autumn International Series match between England and Japan at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London on Saturday 12th November 2022 | Photo: James Fearn/PPAUK.

#33. Joe Marler

Experienced English prop known for his scrummaging skills and strong work ethic. A determined player who brings both intensity and humor to the team.

Joe Marler of England Rugby during the Six Nations Championship match between England and Wales at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London on February 26th 2021. - PHOTO: Phil Mingo/PPAUK

#32. Steve Thompson

Former England hooker and World Cup winner in 2003. A dynamic player who combined technical skill with physicality, contributing to England's success on the international stage.

#31. Will Carling

Former England captain and center known for his leadership and playmaking abilities. Led England to multiple Five Nations victories and played a significant role in their success.

#30. Josh Lewsey

Versatile former England player who excelled in multiple positions, including fullback and wing. Known for his speed, agility, and strong defensive capabilities.

#29. Rocky Clark

Resilient English prop known for her longevity and contributions to women's rugby. A stalwart of the front row, Clark has achieved remarkable success and earned numerous caps for England.

#28. Lewis Moody

Former England flanker known for his aggressive style of play and relentless pursuit of the ball. A World Cup winner in 2003, Moody's tenacity and leadership made him a fan favorite.

Lewis Moody shares a joke with Mike Tindall - Photo mandatory by-line:Phil Mingo/Pinnacle - Tel: +44(0)1363 881025 - Mobile:0797 1270 681 - VAT Reg No: 768 6958 48 - 19/03/2011 - RUBY UNION - RBS Six Nations - Ireland v England - Aviva Stadium, Lansdowne Road, Dublin, Ireland

#27. Ben Cohen

Former England winger known for his speed, strength, and try-scoring ability. A World Cup winner in 2003, Cohen was a formidable presence on the field and a key contributor to England's success.

#26. Matt Dawson

Former England scrum-half known for his quick thinking, accurate passing, and strong decision-making abilities. A World Cup winner in 2003, Dawson was a crucial playmaker for the national team.

#25. Ben Youngs

Experienced England scrum-half known for his speed, agility, and excellent distribution skills. A consistent performer and leader on the field, Youngs has earned numerous caps for his country.

Ben Youngs of England on the break to go over for a try during the Autumn Nations Match between England and Tonga at Twickenham Stoop on 6 November 2021. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK

#24. Mike Tindall

Former England center known for his physicality, defensive prowess, and strong presence in the midfield. A World Cup winner in 2003, Tindall made a significant impact for the national team.

#23. Rob Andrew

ormer England fly-half known for his tactical awareness, accurate kicking, and solid decision-making. A key figure in English rugby during the 1990s, Andrew played an instrumental role in the national team's success.

#22. Brian Moore

Former England hooker known for his toughness, skill set, and fierce competitiveness. A World Cup finalist in 1991, Moore's contributions to the team were invaluable.

#21. Bill Beaumont

Former England captain and lock who led the national team to Grand Slam victories and World Cup success in the 1980s. A respected figure in rugby administration, Beaumont has made significant contributions to the sport.

#20. Maro Itoje

Dynamic English lock known for his athleticism, skill, and versatility. A disruptive force in the lineout and breakdown, Itoje has established himself as one of the world's best players in his position.

Woodward wants Maro Itoje back in the second-row

#19. Will Greenwood

Former England center known for his exceptional running lines, vision, and try-scoring ability. A World Cup winner in 2003, Greenwood brought creativity and flair to the national team.

#18. Jonny May

Prolific English winger known for his lightning speed, agility, and try-scoring ability. A key figure in England's backline, May has consistently delivered impressive performances on the international stage.

Jonny May of England is tackled by Mark Telea of New Zealand during the Autumn International Series match between England and New Zealand at Twickenham, London on 19 November 2022 (Photo: Micah Crook/PPAUK)

#17. Dean Richards

Former England number eight known for his physicality, leadership, and dominance at the back of the scrum. A successful club coach, Richards made a significant impact on the national team.

#16. David Duckham

Former England winger known for his elusive running style, agility, and try-scoring ability. Duckham was a key figure in English rugby during the 1970s and contributed to the national team's success.

#15. Neil Back

Former England flanker known for his tireless work rate, strong defensive skills, and ability to turn over the ball. A World Cup winner in 2003, Back's contributions to the team were invaluable.

#14. Fran Cotton

Former England prop known for his scrummaging expertise and physicality. A key member of the successful British and Irish Lions tour in 1974, Cotton was a respected figure in English rugby.

#13. Jeremy Guscott

Former England center known for his exceptional skill set, vision, and ability to create scoring opportunities. Guscott played a crucial role in England's success during the 1990s and early 2000s.

#12. Emily Scarratt

Accomplished English center known for her skill, speed, and reliable goal-kicking. A key player in the women's game, Scarratt has achieved remarkable success and contributed significantly to England's triumphs.

#11. Rory Underwood

Former England winger known for his remarkable speed, agility, and try-scoring ability. A consistent performer for the national team, Underwood holds the record for the most tries scored by an English player.

#10. Owen Farrell

English fly-half known for his leadership, game management, and accurate goal-kicking. A World Cup finalist in 2019, Farrell's composure and skill make him a vital component of the national team.

Owen Farrell of England takes a penalty kick during the Autumn International Series match between England and New Zealand at Twickenham, London on 19 November 2022 (Photo: Micah Crook/PPAUK)

#9. Phil Vickery

Former England prop known for his strength, scrummaging ability, and leadership skills. A World Cup winner in 2003, Vickery's contributions to the national team were highly regarded.

#8. Peter Winterbottom

Former England flanker known for his physicality, work rate, and defensive prowess. A reliable presence in the back row, Winterbottom played a significant role in England's success during the 1980s.

#7. Richard Hill

Accomplished English flanker known for his defensive skills, work rate, and tactical awareness. A World Cup winner in 2003, Hill's contributions to the national team were vital.

#6. Jason Robinson

Former England winger known for his electric pace, agility, and try-scoring ability. A World Cup winner in 2003, Robinson made a seamless transition from rugby league

#5. Sarah Hunter

Resilient English rugby player and former captain of the national women's team. Hunter, a powerful number eight, showcases exceptional leadership, skill, and versatility on the field. With numerous accolades, including a World Cup triumph, she has been a driving force in women's rugby, inspiring with her determination, commitment, and consistent performances.

Sarah Hunter of England Women Rugby (Saracens, 8 caps) during the England Women Rugby and USA WomenÕs Rugby at Sandy Park on 3 Sept 2022. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK.

#4. Jason Leonard

Legendary English prop and World Cup winner, Leonard is widely regarded as one of the finest front-row players in rugby history. Renowned for his strength, durability, and scrummaging ability, he earned a record-breaking number of international caps. Leonard's contributions to the game extend beyond his playing career, as he continues to be an ambassador for rugby and a respected figure in the sport.

#3. Lawrence Dallaglio

Celebrated English back-row forward and influential leader, Dallaglio left an indelible mark on the game. Known for his physicality, skill, and astute game understanding, he played a vital role in England's 2003 World Cup victory. Dallaglio's charisma and contributions both on and off the field have cemented his status as one of England's rugby greats.

#2. Martin Johnson

Revered English lock and esteemed captain, Johnson exemplified leadership and determination throughout his storied career. As the captain of England's 2003 World Cup-winning team, his indomitable spirit and commanding presence inspired his teammates. A dominant force in the forward pack, Johnson's legacy extends far beyond his playing days, with his leadership qualities continuing to influence the game.

#1. Jonny Wilkinson

Iconic English fly-half whose precision kicking and composed play defined an era. Renowned for his work ethic, Wilkinson's relentless pursuit of excellence led to numerous accolades, including a World Cup win in 2003. Beyond his exceptional skills, he remains an inspiration for his humility, dedication, and the impact he had on English rugby.