July 9, 2023, a few months before the World Cup, Stuart Hogg announces his retirement from the sport with immediate effect. The fault lies in a physique that no longer follows. The full-back with 100 caps had therefore played his last match on April 30, 2023 with Exeter (defeat against La Rochelle in the European semi-final). 17 months later, he has just returned to the Top 14 pitches this Saturday afternoon with Montpellier. To compensate for Anthony Bouthier’s long injury, Bernard Laporte asked the former star of the XV du Chardon to revive him and offer him a two-year contract.
And, this Saturday, Hogg more than responded on the field. A try scored, sharp runs (72 meters with the ball in hand), an impressive length of foot, Hogg did almost everything well this afternoon. His recruitment seems to be a very good choice for the MHR. “I found him rather good (laughs). He has a big kick, he does everything at 200%, he has a lot of experience. He is an example for us, he speaks, he is listened to. He will bring us a lot”, confides Thomas Darmon, his teammate in the center.
Joan Caudullo praises
With the uncertainties about his physical condition behind him (a minor calf scare this week), the staff did not hesitate to start him at the back against Lyon. And Joan Caudullo, the new manager, was full of praise for the Scot. Before the question was asked, he was keen to praise his player’s performance before continuing: “He’s an international-level player. Even though he hasn’t played for Scotland for a long time, he’s got something extra. Today, we see a kid who puts a lot of energy into the group. He leads the line well, he communicates a lot, he’s listened to. We’re going to rely on him to move forward.”
He will miss the start of the week’s training as he is expected in the south of Scotland on Tuesday morning to face trial in the domestic violence case against his estranged wife Gillian.
- RMC Sport
