Derek and Nigel - Two Heads, One Tale

Two Welshmen have received the accolade of being the top rugby referee in the world: they have refereed a World Cup final. They've not only served the game that they love, but contributed to its development and appeal over many decades. They're also great friends and two really funny men! That's what we see here on these pages as they share their experiences on and off the field. When Derek stopped refereeing, he became Nigel's coach. He then served as Nigel's Television Match Official for many seasons. Here they share stories of the game from their point of view: the global travel and village rugby, making difficult decisions and surviving the times when things aren't going so well, and all those World Cups, of course! Black & white photos.

Nigel Owens is an internationally respected Welsh rugby union referee, loved by fans and respected by players worldwide. When he retired in 2020, he was the world record holder for most Test matches refereed and he is one of only two Welsh referees ever to officiate at a Rugby World Cup Final. He has also presented TV shows, and in 2011 was appointed to Wales' prestigious Gorsedd of Bards. In 2007 he came out as gay, and is an icon in the LGBTQ+ community. Both the first volume of his autobiography, 'Half Time' (Y Lolfa, 2009) and the hardback version of this book are huge bestsellers.