Former Wigan Warriors prop lands surprise coaching gig in rugby union

Former Wigan Warriors and three-time Grand Final winning prop, Ben Flower, has completed a switch to rugby union after it had been announced he would take up a new role as a collision coach for Wales women, ahead of the upcoming World Cup. 

Flower started his playing career in the 15-man code, before joining Super League with Celtic Crusaders in 2008. There, he played 66 matches across four seasons, which earned him a move to Wigan Warriors in 2012. 

There, he would spend most of his career, winning three times at Old Trafford in the Grand Final, and securing a Challenge Cup and World Club Challenge trophy. 

Perhaps his most famous moment in a Warriors jersey was the 2014 Grand Final, when he was sent off in the opening quarter of the game after punching St Helens halfback Lance Hohaia whilst he laid flat on the ground. He was given a six-month playing ban, the longest in Super League history.  

He rounded off his playing career at the then Leigh Centurions in 2021, as he joined them in their first season back in Super League since 2017. 

After retirement, he immediately switched to the coaching hot seat, taking over at South Wales Jets. 

Speaking on the appointment, Flower said: “Being involved with Wales is always a privilege… To have this chance to play a role as Wales prepare for a World Cup is an opportunity I am looking forward to.” 

Wales head coach Sean Lynn added: “Ben is someone who has worked with this squad of players before and the Women’s Six Nations review highlighted the need to improve our collision work and dominance, both sides of the ball.” 

Wales Women RU have a two-match test coming up against Australia, before the Rugby World Cup takes place in England and kicks off on August 22.