England star flattens Wales international as Austin Healey gasps live on air

The commentary team were blown away by the magnitude of the hit.

England full-back Freddie Steward flattened Wales international Joe Hawkins in the Gallagher Premiership.

Steward's Tigers were facing Hawkins' Exeter, with the latter starting at inside centre. The Welshman made a break after 20 minutes, charging into Tigers territory before being met with the perfect, yet shuddering, tackle technique of Steward.

The Englishman drove the Welshman backwards with remarkable power as the crowd erupted around Sandy Park. Alastair Eykyn, who was on commentary for TNT Sports, simply exclaimed: "What a tackle."

READ MORE:Gavin Henson mobbed by team-mates as he wins match in final second

READ MORE: Argentina beat South Africa

Austin Healey, who was on co-commentary, gasped in the wake of the tackle before saying: "That's how you redeem a dropped ball isn't it? It's a sensational tackle, look - he's in the backfield. They get caught, he should've given the ball early, bang. Just steps in and makes the hit.

You can check out the hit below.

Tigers went down to 14 men after 71 minutes, with centre Solomone Kata being given a red card for dangerous head on head contact. Despite this, they held on well and secured a dramatic last-gasp 17-14 victory thanks to a try from Wales flanker Tommy Reffell.

Hawkins left Welsh rugby in 2023, after signing for Chiefs from Ospreys. His move to the Premiership club made him ineligible to represent Wales due to the 25-cap rule. It was the subject of much debate at the time as Hawkins had been showing promise in the12 jersey for his country.

Speaking about his move, Hawkins said: "I want to acknowledge that by signing for Exeter Chiefs, my first professional contract, I have fully prioritised my rugby career. I have done so with my professional development, personal development and financial security in mind.

"The turbulent period in Welsh rugby, where there were no contracts on offer in Wales, put all out of contract players under pressure. Witnessing the number of players in Wales currently out of a job has reinforced my decision.

"Further, while I have spent the last few years playing professional rugby, and later international rugby, I have been held to an 'academy contract' - being significantly underpaid."