Premiership's only 'out' player is 6ft 8in lock who could target England call-up
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Exeter Chiefs lock Jack Dunne has opened up about his courageous decision to come out, revealing that facing his family "was probably tougher" than telling his rugby teammates.
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"Probably Tougher Coming Out to My Friends and Family"
In a heartfelt interview with BBC Sport, the 25-year-old reflected on the challenges he faced. “It was probably tougher coming out to my friends and family back in the day," Dunne admitted.
Despite having been comfortable with his identity for around five years before coming out publicly, he revealed that telling his loved ones was the hardest part. "The personal one was probably bigger than the professional one," he said.
Inspiring Confidence in Others
Dunne's story isn't just personal—he hopes it will resonate with others in the rugby community. “It would be good for other gay or bisexual men to see people like me and hopefully it'll give them a bit of confidence to be able to be who they are,” he said, showing his passion for making a difference.
A Nod to Jake Daniels
The towering lock also expressed admiration for fellow athlete Jake Daniels, who made headlines in May 2022 by publicly coming out as gay. Daniels became the only openly gay male professional footballer in Britain, and Dunne applauded his bravery in the face of such a landmark moment for sport.
From Leinster to Exeter
Born in London but raised in Ireland, Dunne joined Exeter Chiefs ahead of the 2022/23 season from the United Rugby Championship’s Leinster. As a Chief, he's made 40 appearances and scored a memorable try against Munster in a thrilling Investec Champions Cup clash at Sandy Park.
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A Future with England?
Though he's sidelined with injury at the moment, the versatile forward is still very much in the mix for a potential England call-up, thanks to his London birth. Dunne, who won 10 caps with Ireland’s Under-20 side, is eligible for Steve Borthwick's squad as he works his way back to full fitness.
New Deal and Gratitude
Dunne signed a new contract with Exeter at the end of last season, and he couldn't be more excited about the future. “I'm excited to be continuing with this team for next season,” he said. The lock also took a moment to express his thanks to the Chiefs fans: “A huge thank you to the Chiefs supporters who have made Sandy Park such a special place for me these last two years.”
NIGEL OWENS DREAM XV:
Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)
Owens said: “For me, it's nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.
“But I go for Folau – only just, I should stress – because of his ability to seemingly beat his man every time he gets the ball in his hand. He's such an exciting player and like Leigh he is one of the best under the high ball.
“It's a toss of a coin for me… and it's come down in Folau's favour.”
Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)
Owens said: “How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He's so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.
“I know he's a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.
“When you see who is on the other wing in my team, you'll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem.”
Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he's a fantastic man off the field as well. O'Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.
“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”
Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
Owens said: “He's another brilliant player and after every game, win or lose, he would come up and give me a hug. Ma'a has always found time at after-match functions or at breakfast if we've been staying at the same hotel to come over and have a chat.
“What a player, mind, too. One of the stalwarts of the New Zealand side for so many years.”
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Owens said: “When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it's pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I've been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.
“But if I'm pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.
“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that.”
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