Former Scotland rugby captain Stuart Hogg has been released on bail despite breaching a court order prohibiting contact with his estranged wife by sending her "unpleasant" text messages.
The 32-year-old spent a night in police custody before appearing at Jedburgh Sheriff Court, where he admitted to repeatedly contacting Gillian Hogg. Sentence was deferred pending the outcome of a domestic abuse trial later this month, which includes charges of stalking and controlling behaviour over a seven-year period.
Sheriff James McCarron, citing Hogg's lack of previous convictions, decided to grant bail. He warned Hogg that any repeat of such behaviour would make future bail "highly unlikely". The conditions of his bail will allow Hogg to travel to France to join his new club Montpellier and attend his brother's wedding.
Sheriff McCarron emphasised, "Let there be no doubt - no contact means no contact, invited or otherwise."
The court was informed that Hogg initially responded after Gillian Hogg contacted him regarding financial matters. Prosecutor India McLean described the messages sent between 26 June and 30 June as "abusive", while defence lawyer Mat Patrick acknowledged they were "unpleasant" but not "threatening". Patrick noted that Hogg had been drinking and was "feeling emotional" after seeing a social media video posted by his wife.
The case is set to continue on 15 July.
Highest-paid rugby players in the world:
The recent disclosure of the earnings of some of rugby's most prominent figures illuminates the lucrative landscape at the pinnacle of the sport.
Siya Kolisi, the inspirational Springbok captain, has enjoyed considerable success both on and off the field. His reported salary of £800,000 at Racing 92 reflects his value to the team and his standing as one of the sport's most influential figures.
Siya Kolisi, Captain of South Africa celebrates after the Rugby World Cup Final match between New Zealand and South Africa at Stade De France, Paris on 29 October 2023 (Photo: Micah Crook/PPAUK)
Maro Itoje (England) - £800,000
Maro Itoje, the towering English lock, has been the subject of considerable speculation regarding his future earnings. While his reported salary of £800,000 with Saracens is impressive, potential hybrid deals with the RFU could see his income increase even further, highlighting his importance to both club and country.
Maro Itoje of England during the Six Nations Match between England and Wales at Twickenham, London on 10 February 2024 (Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK)
Faf De Klerk (South Africa) - £900,000
Faf De Klerk, the dynamic South African scrum-half, is among the highest-paid players in the game.
His reported salary of £900,000 with the Yokohama Canon Eagles in Japan reflects his status as one of rugby's premier talents.
Cheslin Kolbe (South Africa) - £937,000
Cheslin Kolbe, the electrifying Springbok star, has attracted attention not only for his on-field performances but also for his lucrative contracts. Despite turning down massive offers from other clubs, Kolbe's reported salary of around £900,000 with Suntory Sungoliath in Japan solidifies his status as one of the game's highest earners.
Cheslin Kolbe of Toulouse during the European Champions Cup Final match between La Rochelle and Toulouse at Twickenham Stadium, London on May 22 2021. - PHOTO: Micah Crook/PPAUK
Finn Russell (Scotland) - £1million
Finn Russell, the talismanic Scottish fly-half, rounds out the list as one of rugby's top earners.
His reported salary of £1 million with Bath underscores his value to the club and highlights the financial rewards available to elite players in the sport.
Finn Russell of Bath Rugby during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby match between Gloucester Rugby and Bath Rugby at Kingsholm Stadium on 10 November 2023 in Gloucester, England. (Photo by Tom Sandberg/PPAUK)
Owen Farrell (England) - £1.2m
Owen Farrell is set to bid farewell to English rugby at the conclusion of this season, as the Saracens fly-half secures a lucrative two-season contract with Racing 92.
A statement from Racing read: “Racing 92 can confirm the signing of Owen Farrell (32) for our men’s team. The England international has joined for two seasons and will join up with the ciel et blanc
One report in France indicates that the former England captain could be earning up to £1.2m per season.