Rugby players

While you might not know this, the Rugby World Cup attracts the third-largest audience in the world. That’s right. That many people are watching rugby, holding their breath and crossing their fingers as they intently watch the game. Without even getting into how much money is wagered on these games, you can imagine that the sum is quite tidy.

But today in this website, we’re not talking about the money that goes into wagering, but rather that which goes into the players’ pockets. Which players are earning the highest rates in the market?

Dan Carter

Dan Carter

With a yearly pay of £1.1 million, he has earned himself the top spot on his list. He made himself quite the superstar by excelling in speed, defensive strength, and an unbelievable sidestep. It was quite a shock to rugby players and lovers worldwide when he recently announced that he was taking a step back from active playing. The 38-year-old has been active since he was 23 and has held the coveted position of world’s best fly-half. He will surely be missed on the field.

Matt Giteau

Matt Giteau

Here is another talented player making £1.1 million a year. The thirty-eight-year-old made his debut against England at Twickenham in 2002. At the time, he was only 20. Little did he know that he would grow to be one of the most respected players in the game. He eventually and the name Kid Dynamite, which was a testament to how well he was doing. The Australian had his big moment during the 2015 World Cup when his touchdown confirmed England’s exit from the cup. At the time, many people were convinced that his move to France would end his international career. The joy that engulfed him and his fans following this win was enough to silence any doubts about how great a future he had in front of him.

Charles Piutau

Charles Piutau

This New Zealand rugby union player earns a cool £1 million every year. At only 29, this fullback has established his throne and commanded respect among his peers and his fans.

His deal with Bristol saw him sign a contract that awarded him the status of being the first British 1-million-pound player. There’s a lot ahead for this illustrious young man.

Maro Itoje

Maro Itoje

It is not every day that you see a new entrant into the industry making waves this huge. But that is not the case with Maro, who takes home £750000 per year, having signed with Saracens. The long-term assured him of holding this position, standing as the highest-earning player for the team. At 22, he was selected for the British and Irish Lions during their tour of New Zealand. At first glance, this might seem like an everyday thing. But when you realize that he was the youngest player of the 41-man squad, it becomes apparent that he is not your usual player. Moreover, he performed so well on the tour that he was named one of the standout players. At only 26, there is so much ahead for this player who is set to be an icon.

Owen Farrell

Owen Farrell

As is the case with Maro, Owen also plays for champion side Saracens and makes £750000 a year. He’s known to celebrate every point by linking his index fingers together to make a JJ sign. His fans have come to associate these with a joining Jack salute, an ode to a charity organization that helps people with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The 29-year-old has been playing international rugby since 2012.

Aaron Cruden

Aaron Cruden

To finish our list, we look at yet another New Zealand Rugby Union player. Testicular cancer aside, Aaron has not let challenges keep him from playing the game. The 32-year-old has been playing elite rugby for over a decade and currently makes £680,000.

These are but a few names that have fast become household names. As the game gets more popular and more sponsors come into the picture, it is expected that the salaries will only get bigger.