Russell ribbed by Stooke
Finn Russell got a ribbing for his big-money contract on live TV, without even noticing.
Bath Rugby faced Harlequins in the Gallagher Premiership on Saturday, with Russell’s side securing a 25-17 win. Russell got one over his opposite number Marcus Smith, in a hugely anticipated flyhalf battle. It almost boiled over between them at one point.
During the TNT Sports broadcast, cameras cut to the replacements’ bench with just five minutes to play. Russell had just been hooked from the field after another sizzling performance, and all eyes were on him.
Starting lock Elliott Stooke had also been taken off, and took the opportunity to comedically take aim at Russell. Everytime the Scotsman looked away, Stooke rubbed his finger and thumb together and pointed towards him. The Englishman simply rubbed his stubble innocently every time Russell looked at him, with the Scotland star completely unaware.
It makes for hilarious viewing. Stooke would be right in suggesting that Russell is well remunerated. The British and Irish Lion is reportedly on roughly £1million per year at Bath, who secured his talents from Top 14 outfit Racing 92 earlier this year.
The 31-year-old has more than delivered since arriving at The Rec, taking Bath to the top of the Premiership table at Christmas.
Despite his seven-figure salary, he’s still not the best paid player in world rugby. Instead he comes in at a close second to Leicester Tigers fly-half Handre Pollard, who recently won the World Cup for a second time with South Africa. The 29-year-old is reportedly on just under £1.5million with the East Midlands club. Wales legend Dan Biggar isn’t far behind at just under £800,000 per year with Toulon.
(Salary figures obtained from Florugby).