v=1667401267","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":"Nigel Owens book | Welsh rugby books","id":30641765384429,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.

I had no idea, was merely dealing at the time with a case of dissent I didn't want creeping into rugby. It’s rare for a referee in any sport to be popular, yet Nigel Owens has always courted strong affection throughout the world – loved by the players, coaches, officials, TV commentators and even fans. I think some of the continuous emphasis that none of the viral moments were said with that as the goal could have been edited out. A real character, some of his famous put-downs whilst lecturing players, such as 'This is Not Soccer', have become huge social media hits. Finance is provided by PayPal Credit (a trading name of PayPal UK Ltd, Whittaker House, Whittaker Avenue, Richmond-Upon-Thames, Surrey, United Kingdom, TW9 1EH).Nigel Owens' unwavering honesty, infectious charm, and exceptional career make this autobiography a must-read for rugby fans and anyone seeking a story of triumph, respect, and the indomitable human spirit. After coming through dark times when he tried to take his own life, he was the first leading figure in the macho world of rugby union to come out openly as gay and went on to command respect everywhere for his honesty off the pitch and ability as a referee on it. But while Owens is candid about events that happened, for the most part this is a hugely positive book which he feels will make the reader smile - 'even bring an occasional tear to the eye', he says. He has also had huge success as media pundit, as TV presenter, star of adverts and his warmth and affability always shining through.

Had it not been for the heat sensors of a police helicopter he might have died alone that night on Mynydd-y-Ddraenen, the appropriately named Mountain of Thorns.It’s a rare thing to to able to be able to assert authority with a smile, and of course his humour, both on and off the pitch has become a hallmark of his refereeing style and of the man himself.