Steve Walsh would approve.
Nigel Owens and attention pretty much go hand-in-hand at this stage.
Like some of the finest rugby stars he officiates over, Owens thrives in the spotlight. When everyone is watching, he comes alive.
It is an odd statement to make about a rugby referee but the Welshman does such a fine job of letting the game flow that he is very popular among players and fans alike.
The one-liners, comic relief and classy gestures all add to his legend – as do his noble words about being proud of his sexuality and his battles with bulimia and depression – but, overall, he is a damned fine referee.
Owens will preside over this weekend’s Champions Cup Final at Murrayfield, with Clermont looking to get the better of reigning champs Saracens.
The players will not be the only ones to sport boots to commemorate the occasion, Owens has been hooked up by boot manufacturers Under Armour. They are hardly demure but we’d expect nothing less from Owens.
Big thank you to @UnderArmour @UnderArmourUK and @lovellrugby for these beauties for the @ChampionsCup Final tomorrow. Cheers @michael_dods pic.twitter.com/jCLk4KfAht
— Nigel Owens MBE (@Nigelrefowens) May 12, 2017
One hopes that Owens has one of his good games at Murrayfield and that we are treated to more than fire, brimstone and some flash boots.
