Former Scotland captain Stuart Hogg has made his return to rugby with Montpellier, but any hopes of rejoining the national team appear remote due to ongoing legal issues.
Townsend’s Initial Support
Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend had initially welcomed Hogg’s decision to return to the sport, acknowledging his contribution to Scottish rugby. “He was obviously a fantastic rugby player who was in our World Cup training squad before he decided to retire. If he does come back, we wish him all the best,” said Townsend.
However, recent developments in Hogg’s legal case have cast doubt on any potential international return.
Legal Issues and Bail Conditions
Earlier this month, Hogg was released on bail after allegedly breaching previous bail conditions ahead of his domestic abuse trial. He appeared in custody at Jedburgh Sheriff Court, where he faces charges of stalking and controlling behaviour towards his estranged wife, Gillian, over a seven-year period. Hogg denies the allegations.
Prosecutors opposed the decision to grant him bail, but Sheriff Peter Paterson allowed Hogg to be released under strict conditions, including a ban on contacting his wife.
Domestic Abuse Allegations
Hogg is facing a number of serious accusations, including claims that he acted aggressively towards his wife, accused her of infidelity, and monitored her movements and communications over several years. He has pled not guilty to these charges, which also include an offence under section one of the Domestic Abuse Scotland Act.
Hogg was initially arrested in February after allegedly causing fear and alarm at his wife’s home.
Trial Set for November
The case will proceed to trial on 4 November at Selkirk Sheriff Court, where Hogg will face the full extent of the charges against him. Until the legal matter is resolved, any hopes of an international rugby return seem firmly on hold.
NIGEL OWENS DREAM XV:
Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)
Owens said: “For me, it’s nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.
“But I go for Folau – only just, I should stress – because of his ability to seemingly beat his man every time he gets the ball in his hand. He’s such an exciting player and like Leigh he is one of the best under the high ball.
“It’s a toss of a coin for me… and it’s come down in Folau’s favour.”
Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)
Owens said: “How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He’s so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.
“I know he’s a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.
“When you see who is on the other wing in my team, you’ll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem.”
Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he’s a fantastic man off the field as well. O’Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.
“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”
Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
Owens said: “He’s another brilliant player and after every game, win or lose, he would come up and give me a hug. Ma’a has always found time at after-match functions or at breakfast if we’ve been staying at the same hotel to come over and have a chat.
“What a player, mind, too. One of the stalwarts of the New Zealand side for so many years.”
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Owens said: “When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it’s pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I’ve been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.
“But if I’m pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.
“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that.”