TO CELEBRATE legendary referee, Nigel Owens MBE, becoming the first in his field to reach 100 international Rugby Union Test matches, Amazon Prime has gifted membership free for one year to all households in his hometown of Mynyddcerrig, in Carmathenshire.

Nigel is set to reach his 100th international cap when he officiates France v Italy in the autumn Nations Cup at 8.10pm on Saturday, November 28.

On track to make history, Nigel Owens is regarded as one of the finest referees in rugby and has had a distinguished career from his start as an international referee back in 2003, to officiating in four World Cup tournaments, including the 2015 World Cup Final between New Zealand and Australia.

He is well known for his firm but fair approach, with his pithy in-game quotes such as, “Don’t swear, now, you’re on telly” and, “You don’t like to scrummage? Well if you don’t, you’re in the wrong position,” delighting fans around the world.

He is also a leading figure in the LGBTQ+ community after publicly speaking about his experiences of coming out as gay back in 2007. In 2016, he was awarded an MBE for services to sport.

As well as ensuring that all 117 households in Nigel’s birthplace are able to watch the big game on Saturday, Amazon Prime Video also presented Owens with a bespoke golden whistle to commemorate his historic achievement.

The keepsake is inscribed with the date, match details and the ‘100 Test Matches’ accolade, and was received by the referee in his secure Autumn Nations Cup bubble as he prepares for the big match.

South Wales Guardian:

Ann Davies, County Councillor for Llanddarog Ward for Mynyddcerrig said: “Nigel Owens is a true living legend in Mynyddcerrig. He was a local lad with big dreams and worked extremely hard to reach the pinnacle of his profession, including refereeing the final of the Rugby World Cup.”

“We are proud of everything he has achieved and the whole village will be tuned in to Prime Video to watch his next milestone on Saturday. I wouldn’t be surprised if the whole of Wales was watching too!”

Coverage of France v Italy starts at 7.30pm, Saturday, November 28 (K.O 8:10pm) on Amazon Prime Video.

This match follows a huge clash between Wales v England at the Parc y Scarlets stadium in the Autumn Nations Cup, which kicks off at 4pm.