Hogg earlier admitted breaching bail conditions by repeatedly contacting his wife in June.

Sheriff Paterson deferred sentence on the domestic abuse charge to see if it was possible for Hogg to complete a rehabilitation course remotely now that he is playing rugby in France

Last month, Hogg, who plays for Montpellier, admitted a single charge which related to repeated abusive behaviour towards his now estranged wife.

Over a five-year period, up to August this year, he engaged in a course of conduct which caused her fear or alarm.

The court heard how he regularly shouted and swore at his wife while they lived in Hawick, as well as when they lived in Exeter when Hogg played for Exeter Chiefs.