‘I’m back’ – Legendary ref Nigel Owens comes out of retirement after four years as fans say ‘better start stretching’
LEGENDARY rugby referee Nigel Owens has announced his return to officiating.
Owens called time on his refereeing career in December 2020 after a whopping 23 YEARS officiating matches.
But a commemorative match has brought the 52-year-old out of retirement.
The Welshman will pick up his whistle again to referee a special match between Lampeter RFC and London Welsh to mark the former's 150th anniversary.
Owens announced his shock return on social media, writing: “I’m back.
"After four years, I am picking up the whistle again tomorrow for a special 150 years anniversary celebrating Lampeter RFC in their match versus London Welsh.
"Hope the legs will last the 80 minutes.”
Rugby union fans were quick to comment on Owens' shock announcement.
One wrote on X: "You will smash it! You’re a legend of the game!"
Another said: "The best ref ever. Good luck."
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And another said: "I'm sure you'll be great.
"Seriously, what an honour to be reffed by Nigel Owens. don't take any backchat lol."
One remarked: "Genuinely want to watch the match now."
Another chimed in: "You had better start stretching today and have some diclofenac ready for Sunday."
London Welsh are also excited by Owen's return to the pitch.
Commenting on his X post, they wrote: "We can't wait."
Owens, who is widely considered to be one of the best refs in rugby union history, was once the holder of the record for the most Test matches refereed.
The biggest moment of his career came in 2015 when he took charge of the World Cup final between bitter rivals Australia and New Zealand.