What a Flanker

By: James Haskell

Narrated by: James Haskell

Length: 8 hrs and 17 mins

Publisher's summary

‘I’d like to be remembered as a player who showed that you can be incredibly professional but also a lot of fun - a bit of a tit in the changing room, but the ultimate competitor on the pitch. That should have been the subtitle of this book, really....’

One of rugby’s most ferocious flankers and biggest characters, James Haskell has had an extraordinary, global experience of the game, having played for the Lions, Wasps, England and in New Zealand, France and Japan. After 17 years and with 77 international caps under his sizeable belt, he has a shitload to say about rugby life - from pitch to pub and everywhere in between.

In What a Flanker, Haskell sheds fresh light on the dynamics and the day-to-day of the game. Whether he’s recalling the most brutal team socials; dispelling the myths surrounding New Zealand’s dominance; introducing his Japanese teammates to manscaping or calling out play-acting in the modern game, no subject is off limits.

Side-splittingly funny and ruthlessly honest, What a Flanker delves into the touring, drinking, training, eating and sometimes unconscionable antics of the professional rugby player. It’s an unforgettable listen, even if there are some stories you’d rather forget....

©2020 James Haskell (P)2020 HarperCollins Publishers Limited

Critic reviews

"Hilarious, and straight talking but also articulate and insightful - I am just hugely fond of this guy." (Eddie Jones)

"I’d like to be remembered as a player who showed that you can be incredibly professional but also a lot of fun – a bit of a joker in the changing room, but the ultimate competitor on the pitch. That should have been the subtitle of this book, really...." (Rugby World)

Laugh out loud funny

Being a fan of James podcast I purchased a copy of his book in audio format. Fantastic fun and highly recommended even to those not interested in Rugby.

Great View into the Interesting life of Mr Haskell.

Very informative, fun and enjoyable read. I followed James’ on field career and it was great to hear his story from his perspective

Rugby players must read

Haskell's rugby and life tales keep you entertained for the complete listen. If you enjoy the podcast James Haskell host and is apart of you will enjoy the listen. Some of Haskell's stories brought me back to university and my rugby experience and found some of the stories relatable.

Love it

Laughed a lot!! Anyone who is a rugby fan should definitely have a listen. Whether you are a Haskell fan or not you will definitely hear some of the great stories about professional rugby, his playing days days and also importantly get his side of the stories and drama the media loved to dramatise! Cracking book. Well done Hask 👍🏽

Haskell, you legend

Amazing story. Thank you for sharing your journey. I hope you and the boys will be in SA next year for the B&I Lions Tour

Well worth the purchase

Loved it.
A black and white insight into professional rugby
Humorous, brutally honest and authentic

Brittliant book by an equally brilliant hask

Funny and easy listen. Lovely bloke.
If youre into rugby you should definitely listen to this book

Hask ya Flanker!

Absolute champion of a book! Recommend to rugby players who love a good banter. Definitely not for backs.

Do yourself a favour!

A rugby autobiography like no other. A real 'behind the scenes'!! Absolute Legend! Hilariously funny!

What I needed

Being an American rugby enthusiast and referee I feel that despite myself never touching the success of James Haskell, this book looks at the person not just the professional. I can relate to the story and struggles he faced when approaching retirement. I am a military veteran and knowing when to hang it up and when to keep pushing was a struggle, as was for Mr. Haskell it seems. What to do next, how to cope with what comes next. I loved the book and it spoke to me on several levels. I highly recommend this to anyone that likes rugby or anyone making transitions in their careers.