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What a Flanker

By: James Haskell
Narrated by: James Haskell
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Publisher's Summary

THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER

‘Hilarious, and straight talking but also articulate and insightful – I am just hugely fond of this guy’
–Eddie Jones

‘James Haskell: what a flanker, what a book’
–Rugby World

‘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…’

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 Wasps, Northampton and England, and in New Zealand, France and Japan. After seventeen 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 read, even if there are some stories you’d rather forget…

[Correction: in the author biography and on p.22 of this book, it is stated in error that the House of Rugby podcast is now known as The Good, The Bad and The Rugby. The House of Rugby podcast continues and The Good, The Bad and The Rugby is a separate podcast.]

©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)

What listeners say about What a Flanker

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An entertaining book.

Good insight into the life of a pro Rugby Player and what really goes on. Found the stories entertaining as well.

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perfect and funny

loved it 100% made me smile .couldnt stop listening to it .good inside word on rugby

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What a listen!!!

absolutely brilliant!!! loved every second of listening to this. A great insight into the world of professional rugby. Congratulations Hask. Top work

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Must read for any Rugby Player or Fan

What a great book into a Professional Rugby player this book has everything from the ups and downs that happens to a rugby player truly a must read for anyone who plays Ruby

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Great insight and right to the line of TMI

The book gives a great insight into the ups and down of professional sport with a great silver lining of humour. The book real speaks to the people side of rugby rather than the X’s and O’s so many books give.

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Totally entertaining from start to finish

A great read and a real insight into the life of a professional rugby player.

I just really liked the honesty of it all. James seemed to tell it without fear of what people would think of him. So refreshing.

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Interesting and honest.

A good look at how the media tries to screw over and manipulate athletes. James is outspoken, honest and readily admits he's not perfect. loved it.

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Fantastic read

A great read, I thoroughly enjoyed James's brutal honesty.
Great player.
Top bloke.
Highly recommended

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an enjoyable listen

a good listen, lots of funny moments from behind the scenes and an eye opening account of a professional rugby player.

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hilarious for footy punters

absolutely giggling to myself in bed listening to this and seeing my wife look at me like a crazy. loved all of it. well done James from an Aussie.

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