Wales rugby great Gavin Henson has returned to the pitch, playing at outside-half for his childhood club, Pencoed RFC. The 33-cap international pulled on the number 10 jersey for the first time in five years, as Pencoed kicked off their Division Two West Central season at home against Heol Y Cyw.
Main Image credit: Mark Lewis Photography
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News of Henson’s return attracted a crowd of over 500, a sharp increase from the usual attendance, with locals estimating a tenfold rise. Queues at the bar were said to be longer than ever as excitement spread through the town.
Club president Terry Rees remarked: “It’s amazing, it’s such an uplift for the club. Obviously the percentage he has put on this crowd… I wouldn’t like to think.
“It’s amazing. He went on to win Wales and British and Irish Lions honours and we are extremely proud of that.”
Since retiring from professional rugby, the 2005 Grand Slam hero has become a pub owner.
Henson, renowned for his high-profile relationship with singer Charlotte Church, took over The Fox And Hounds in 2020, rebranding it simply as The Fox.
The stone-built establishment, a longstanding pillar of the community, underwent a significant transformation under Henson’s ownership, with the rugby star investing in the freehold and commissioning extensive renovations.
This venture marks a notable departure for Henson, who, in his earlier years, faced challenges that led to reports of being barred from numerous bars and pubs in Cardiff following a tumultuous night out.
Despite his sporting background, Henson has seamlessly transitioned into his role as a pub landlord, earning praise from patrons who commend his amiable demeanor and willingness to engage with visitors. Reviews on TripAdvisor attest to his approachability, with guests expressing delight at Henson’s readiness to pose for photographs and extend gratitude for their patronage.
One reviewer shared, “The owner – Gavin Henson – was working the same day and didn’t hesitate when I asked him for a photo. Genuinely lovely guy, he even thanked us for our visit!” Another lauded Henson’s dedication, stating, “Gavin Henson is one in a million. He was 100-percent on the rugby pitch, and he’s 100-percent with his pub.”
Reflecting on his personal life, Henson’s relationship with Charlotte Church, which began in 2005 and saw them engaged five years later, was highlighted. The couple shares two children, Ruby, 14, and Dexter, 13, but separated in 2010, merely six weeks after their engagement.
Telegraph picks a ‘wasted talent XV’ with three England internationals included
According to The Telegraph, a Rugby XV of wasted talent has been selected, taking into consideration the following criteria: players must have earned 10 caps or fewer for their respective countries, their international rugby careers must be concluded, and they must have been capped at least once (uncapped players are excluded).
15. Isa Nacewa (Fiji, one cap)
14. James Simpson-Daniel (England, 10 caps)
They wrote: “Injuries hampered Simpson-Daniel’s ability to regularly break into an all-conquering England side, but his days with Gloucester showed his electric brilliance, while no one will forget in a hurry his burning of Jonah Lomu against the Barbarians. Leaving out the wasted talent of Christian Wade or the crude strength and pace of Joeli Vidiri was tough.”
13. Philippe Bidabe (France, two caps)
12. Regan King (New Zealand, one cap)
11. Rupeni Caucaunibuca (Fiji, eight caps)
They wrote: “Oh, what might have been. The grandest waste of talent in the history of rugby, “Caucau’s” prowess on the world stage came and went in a flash, dazzling audiences and scorning defences at the 2003 World Cup. Years of wilderness and off-field indiscipline ensued, but those fortunate to watch Agen were treated to irregular glimpses of mastery in his later years.”