Saracens made a surprise announcement yesterday, with it being revealed that England captain Owen Farrell would not make himself available for the 2024 Six Nations. They said that the player was stepping away from international rugby in order to 'prioritise his and his family’s mental wellbeing'.
The 32-year old has been the focus of some heavy criticism over the last 12 months or so, most notably in the aftermath of the red card he picked up during a Rugby World Cup warmup match against Wales. On that occasion, it was originally ruled that the out-half would not miss any games at the tournament in France, only for his suspension to be increased upon appeal.
Owen Farrell managed to perform well at the World Cup despite the noise that surrounded him at the time, although he has now opted to take a hiatus from international rugby in order to recuperate.
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Saracens chief slams 'shameful' treatment of Owen Farrell
Many have shared their belief that the criticism directed at Owen Farrell during this period was overly harsh, something that has clearly affected the player.
Speaking after this announcement was made, Saracens' Irish director of rugby Mark McCall said that his player was subjected to some 'shameful' treatment over the last number of months.
It's remarkable that he played the way he played during the World Cup, if we take into account how he was feeling.
He is a person who is right on top of his game at the moment, yet he and his family have been made to feel the way they feel. It is shameful - it's not right.
I've worked with Owen for 15 years, every day, and the person that has been portrayed in the media bears no resemblance to the person I know. He's a family man, they've always come first.
There was a narrative created and started and that's been there for quite some time. There's only so much that someone can take. On top of that, he's a brilliant, caring, supportive team-mate and a loyal friend to many, and a very good, decent human being. That's the person I know.
It was courageous and brave of him to open up. I admire Owen for many reasons anyway, but even more for doing this. I'm not worried about Europe or the club at all. I'm worried about Owen. We want him to be OK and happy. Clearly he hasn't been.
Owen Farrell has spent his entire club career at Saracens (outside of a brief loan at Bedford), going on to make his England debut in 2012. He would be appointed as captain of the national team in 2018.
It remains unclear when, or if, he will put himself forward for England selection again.
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