Review: What A Flanker by James Haskell

Hey everyone!
Today, and I am excited to be sharing my review of What A Flanker by James Haskell with you all.

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GoodReads Synopsis:

‘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…

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My Review:

Going into What A Flanker, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. James Haskell is such a huge character, and as he says himself, he is very much like marmite. Personally, I’ve always liked him, but Haskell gets a pretty bad rep a lot of the time.

However, his personal account of his career, including the scandals he was caught up in, is truly eye opening. One thing I have always liked and respected about Hask is his lack of fear at speaking his mind, whether you agree with him or not, and regardless of how controversial his opinions may be. I think that takes a lot of guts, and with this book he does exactly that. He doesn’t shy away from the truth, and isn’t afraid to talk about the failings of not only himself but of the wider rugby world.

Alongside this, the book is jam packed with hilarious stories from team training camps and meetings, club socials, and tours. He even mentions my absolutely favourite funny rugby moment when Joe Marler stole his scrum cap and squirted water in his face during a game (I urge you all to watch the video online, because it is hilarious). These stories were so much fun to read, and had me in stitches. I read this book while on my honeymoon, and these stories were the perfect combination for a day by the pool with a beer in hand, but I must have looked a little strange laughing to myself on my sun lounger.

He does also talk about some of the darker times during his career. The way that he was treated on many occasions was dreadful, and he was completely let down by a few of the people who were supposed to be helping/protecting him, which led to some pretty hard times for him and his family. I am so glad that he spoke so openly about these situations though, as it highlights the failings and negative sides of professional sport. I truly hope that this never happens to any other player. Despite this, his work ethic remained at the highest of standards, and his strong mentality is incredibly inspirational. After reading this, I have so much more respect for him.

For anyone who isn’t a huge fan of Hask, or believes him to be the person that the media portrays him to be, I challenge you to read What A Flanker and not change your mind! This book is hilarious, honest, and thoroughly enjoyable, and I can’t wait to read his other books now.

I give What A Flanker a 5 star rating!

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