Sheriff Peter Paterson told Hogg the sentence was an alternative to custody.

The payback order will be reviewed for compliance on 25 March at Jedburgh Sheriff Court.

Hogg made no comment as he left court accompanied by his parents.

Montpellier Rugby Club – where he now plays – have made no official statement but the BBC understands that the club want him to carry on playing for them.

Lynne Barrie, procurator fiscal for Lothian and Borders, said Hogg had now been “held accountable for subjecting his estranged wife to years of domestic abuse”.

She said the Crown Office recognised the “devastating impact of domestic abuse” and was committed to the “robust prosecution of offences, regardless of who the offender is”.

“No-one should have to live in fear of a partner or former partner,” she added.

“The trauma suffered by victims – and children who witness these crimes – is significant.

“I would urge anyone affected by similar offending to come forward and report it.”