Contrary to popular opinion, so says ex-England test prop Jeff Probyn, New Zealand-born Dylan Hartley wasn’t a true hard player while playing for the British side, but instead, a man who often resorted to committing acts of violence in an attempt to dominate and overrun rival players. Hartley, who previously played hooker for England, recently released his autobiography – a memoire now described by Probyn as being nothing more than a sham.
Hartley’s autobiography, “The Hurt”, may have some interesting views, but at the same time also reveals nothing not already widely known, writes Probyn in a recent article for a prominent rugby publication. What Hartley is trying to do by publishing a book, so opines the former England test prop, is to justify a career prematurely terminated by injuries and suspensions. Probyn, who previously helped suspend Hartley following an eye-gouging incident, during his own career won an impressive total of 37 England caps over the course of the 6 years he played for the national side.
There isn’t anything “hard” about committing vicious and deliberate acts of violence to players unable to defend themselves while in a maul or other compromised position, explained Probyn. And the fact that even Hartley’s own colleagues had following the mentioned eye-gauging incident called for a lengthy ban, said Probyn, should be indication enough of what even his fellow players thought of his character.
Hartley at the age of only 15 left New Zealand for England, where he would eventually go on to finish his schooling before launching his professional rugby career playing for Worcester in 2005.
| # | Site | Bonus | Bet | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  | Ladbrokes |  | 5/5 | 100% Match up to $250 | Bet now Review |
| 2 |  | Betway | | 4.9/5 | Up to $60 NZD | Bet now Review |
| 3 |  | Palmerbet | | 4.8/5 | 100% Match | Bet now Review |
| 4 |  | Picklebet | | 4.6/5 | Login to see promotions | Bet now Review |
More About Gary Hicks
When it comes to knowing what’s going on, on the track, field or any other sporting arena, Gary Hicks is your man. With an almost unrivalled passion for journalism, sports and betting Gary decided to combine his love of all 3 and share his expertise with the world.
In the last few years Gary has risen through the ranks and prides himself on always keeping a finger on the pulse of what’s hot and happening in the sports betting world. Gary is the resident news expert at OnlineBettingNZ.co.nz and his articles make for invaluable fodder for any avid punter.
You May Also Like:
SA Six Nations Plan Could Spark Bidding War
If South Africa were to join the Six Nations, such a move could potentially spark a bidding war to host the British & Irish Lions tour in 2033. The list ….
Kawa Leauma Dies After Freak Accident
Tragic news confirmed on Wednesday is that New Zealand lock Kawa Leauma has died of the head injuries sustained during an accident in Amsterdam in the Netherlands. The Spanish Rugby ….
Kawa Leauma Suffers Serious Head Injuries
New Zealand rugby player Kawa Leauma is reportedly in a critical condition in hospital after falling eight metres. Leauma, who is undergoing treatment in a hospital in Amsterdam, is said ….
Quade Cooper May Soon Call Australia Home
Wallabies star Quade Cooper told the media this week that he will be taking another citizenship test– a test that will hopefully allow him to finally call Australia his home. ….
World Rugby Says About Dementia
World Rugby has reportedly now told players that head impacts and concussions aren’t the only factors known to contribute to the early onset of dementia. The organisation allegedly said this ….