Crowds gather as former Welsh star returns to rugby

There was a return to rugby for the great Gavin Henson this weekend, as the former Wales and British and Irish Lions playmaker stepped out in front of an exuberant crowd to play for his childhood side, Pencoed RFC.

On a beautifully sunny afternoon in the town of Pencoed, between Cardiff and Swansea, the former Wales star rolled back the years as he stepped in at flyhalf to dictate proceedings.

Henson is remembered fondly in the mid-2000s for his spikey hair, heavy tan, slick hands and silver boots. Come 2024, Henson lined up looking a little older, a little greyer, but all the same, fitting that ‘look good, play good’ mantra. Sporting his red Nike boots and a suspiciously good tan, the playmaker rolled back the years alongside teammates much younger than he.

The Division Two West Central league clash had over 500 people turn up to see the 42-year-old who had last played rugby over five years ago, well-exceeding the average spectator count at previous matches.

Club president Terry Rees told Wales Online afterwards: “It’s amazing, it’s such an uplift for the club. Obviously the percentage he has put on this crowd… I wouldn’t like to think.

“It’s amazing. He went on to win Wales and British and Irish Lions honours and we are extremely proud of that.”

Treasurer Will Jones previously told WalesOnline: “It’s down to having such a strong club structure, with a team at every level running from ages four and five to the seniors.

“With around 250 kids in the system, there’s always a chance you’ll unearth someone special.

“There’s been Scott, the two Gareths and Gavin making the Lions, but we’ve had a number of other boys who’ve also played for Wales. We’re immensely proud of every one of them.”

Despite Henson knocking over a couple of kicks, the scoreline would sadly go against him and his teammates, with visitors Heol y Cyw RFC eventually taking the spoils, 10-30.

For pictures, please visit the Wales Online article here:

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