James Haskell exclusive: Why I had to retire from rugby | House of Rugby #30

James Haskell speaks exclusively, at length, about his decision to retire from rugby. The former England international discusses heartache, parents, best moments, regrets and future plans.
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[@BernardShortt]

James you’ve lived a life Millions dream of. Your a credit to your Family, your Country and to the Game. Love and respect from Ireland

[@AppByDesign]

I just feel really bad for Owen Farrell. Can't imagine he's taking this particulalry well.

[@78mikehayes]

Faz will probably retire now as well, pointless carrying on really

[@andrewtaylor7568]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@adambradford9472]

Owen has a baby of his own now anyway

[@richardneilson]

I've just driven my lad to his last london irish academy session of the season and had the podcast on in the car. We got to the bit about parents putting in the hours driving the young players around, I looked over at my son to see if he had any reaction, and he was fast asleep. Cheers for the lullaby Hask! All the best for the future!

[@daikayll1897]

Ha haa haaaa haaaaaa ha ha Been there Rich ! Keep going mate , best from Wales.

[@LordJamuth]

Richard Neilson so good!

[@henridobbs2423]

Richard Neilson fantastic Richard. Hope the academy is going well for your son.

[@dunlaoghaire]

A super guy. I suspect we've not heard the last of him.... Best wishes from Ireland.

[@simongeorge5739]

No turbo charged red scrum cap at the World Cup! Sad day indeed, best of luck Hask!

[@garykivell]

A man with your talent and energy has a great future james 👍

[@Sulu-sw3zo]

I have enjoyed watching your career, especially your time here in New Zealand as a tourist, and with the Highlanders. You were just an absolute powerhouse on the tour of Australia in 2016. All the best for your future Hask, thanks for your immense contribution to our wonderful game.

[@Griffen__]

Not always been a fan of Hask, but these podcast have really shifted my view of him. Seems like a top bloke. Wish him the best whatever he ends up doing!

[@joshuagibbon2986]

From a Welsh man, you're a legend. Fantastic career in rugby and an amazing career in something equally fantastic, on the way

[@graemedrage3283]

Always thought you were an awesome person and player. Loved you at wasps and was sad they treated you so bad. Can’t wait to see you in a baa baas shirt

[@christineglazzard5200]

Thank you. Love you on this show love you on the pitch. You and men like you are why we have encouraged our amazingly different 7 YO grandson to play rugby. He is making good friends something he struggles with in school. You have made a difference Good luck for the future (not that you will need it)

[@arugbygentlemankirielenko535]

a ferocious and stunning explanation by James Haskell of how he created for himself an amazing 20 year career ..... 2 RWCs ..... 1 British & Irish Lions Tour ..... 77 England Caps ..... Player of the Tour in Australia .... Top performances in the Six Nations .... a stack of medals .... Elite Rugby Clubs in England, France, Japan and NZ .... 99% of the genuine rugby loving and playing population sincerely respect and like you .... the 1% of "nay sayers" should hang their head in shame and are to be ignored and laughed at as they probably haven't touched a rugby ball since they wore shorts at junior school and weren't picked .... the world is full of grey cardboard cuts outs with no opinion so it is great to have had access to someone who is not afraid to speak his mind and show his emotions. Kudos to Alex Payne for being sincere and pushing the conversation along to discuss some important elements. A very different style of show but no less brilliant for that. Good luck in the next chapter and hopefully you will stay on House of Rugby and start "naming names !"

[@PMIRL]

James Haskell; absolute legend, could listen to him all day long. A thoroughly genuine character that tells it exactly as it is with brutal honesty which is as rare as a hens tooth nowadays. All the very best with the next chapter 🤙🏻

[@richc2510]

Hask I've always like the cut of your jib sir, and with you being on House of Rugby us rugby fans have been able to get to see a bit more of the real you, and now I like you even more - you can tell that there's no public persona thing going on and you come across really well. Gutted I won't see you back in an England shirt, but wish you all the success you will surely have in the future and look forward to following your post rugby exploits - top bloke!

[@captainlucozade]

Great episode, done in the right way too! SO much love for Hask, loved watching him play and can't wait to see more of him on screen now! Alex managed it perfectly and it was clear that it was two friends just chatting about a great career!

[@halfpintjue]

I just want to say, thank you hask for allowing us into your vulnerable space as you speak about your retirement, it's not easy for you but you done yourself proud mate. Dedicating your life to rugby was a huge choice to make and again you did yourself proud on and off the pitch. I can imagine that your a pretty good friend to have and everyone will be routing for you to celebrate the next steps of achievements and to actually enjoy being you now! Again I just want to say thank you for giving this old bird a second shot (only a Yr older than you) at the game after 17yrs of not playing I came back to it and haven't looked back. Keep going hask and in the words of yazz "🎼🎶🎵🎧🎤THE ONLY WAY IS UP!" Good luck in all your future plans.

[@MiniMatthew]

You will be alright Haskell, just remember every player has to go through it and you are not alone! Nobody will forget James Haskell too quickly that's for sure!

[@callumliles3849]

This has to go down as one of my favourite podcasts I've ever watched. What a bloke!

[@Slapbladder]

You can clearly hear the emotion in his voice....Thanks Hask.....

[@samson7549]

Haskell you are a legend in all sense of the word and will never be forgotten for who you are and what you have done

[@78mikehayes]

All the best in retirement Haskell, I’ve a lot of time for you (even though I’m Irish) Enjoying the podcasts, we haven’t seen the last of you

[@peterlockitt6771]

Such a shame to retire that way; good luck Hask, I have enjoyed watching you play for club and country. Btw can’t understand why there is a thumbs down; some people?

[@78mikehayes]

Peter Lockitt I thumbs downed because I didn’t like hearing he had to retire I’ve a lot of time for the way he played the game, no nonsense

[@peterlockitt6771]

78mikehayes roger that mike, there was only one thumbs down when I commented but fully get your drift.

[@georgeperry2791]

Go well big Hask! It’s a shame us Saints fans couldn’t see you more on the field this year, but with the career you’ve had and your persona is brilliant! Your future is bright definitely.

[@purenrg4life]

Honestly I’ve become a fan of Hask more through his work off the field as I got to see his personality more through KZbin, this podcast etc.. he is going to be fine and I’m happy to know that we will get to see more of his banter. Great player though and sad that we won’t see him on the field much more! All the best mate if you’re reading these

[@nicholasferris8824]

Awesome Career. Awesome guy, you definitely would have wound me up a treat in the changing room! No one can say that you did not leave it all out there! Good luck in the next phase, I’m sure you won’t need it! Thank you Big Hask!!!

[@simongilliat2205]

James, you are Le Hasque. Good luck to you. You were outstanding in Australia. Best wishes.

[@nunyabusiness7124]

When he smashed Pocock early in the game I thought “yes, Haskell is in top form, we’ve got this”. His work rate was incredible, his tackling formidable. Legend.

[@seanpalmer3515]

What a bloke and rugby player and what a journey he’s had, always honest and speaks his mind nothing but respect and admiration for him. Look forward to seeing what he does next

[@gambitbullet]

Honestly, this was the best episode. So introspective and deep. Big fan

[@robedgar5269]

been following hask for the past 6 or 7 years my favourite player growing up and still an absoloute idol to this day, fntastic on and off the field wish you the best, i dont think well be seeing the last of you

[@triffic5588]

Thanks Hask, my favourite England player since Wilkinson. All the best you legend

[@johnbull1152]

I'm really sorry to hear your retiring Mr Haskell. Thank you for all your awesome service to the shirt over the years. Your a bloody great player!

[@arlenejackson403]

Female Scottish rugby fan here - love the house of rugby - it’s given me a further insight into the game while providing much hilarity which is a unique and unmissable mix. No better forum for James to discuss his sadly-too-soon retirement. A compelling episode. James will be thrilled to know he’s also trending on twitter 😉 well done on another stand out interview, Alex. Best wishes to James, and re the merchandise- can we please have a T shirt with “bits and pieces” on it to honour James and this phrase which he says at least 10 times an interview. 😀

[@jaimegoulder]

You're an absolute legend Hask. One of my favourite players in any shirt. Thank you for everything you've done

[@jamiedarvill2932]

a touching podcast for a legendary player who doesn’t get enough praise for his off the field work. England rugby wouldn’t have changed and become what it is now without Hask in the changing room, and he was instrumental in the lions gelling together. Love this video on him as it’s well deserved

[@056710760]

Bloody love you Hask 🙋‍♂️🙋‍♂️🙋‍♂️

[@edparry215]

What a guy, class player and class guy. Thank you so much for always making me laugh Hask whenever I've watched your videos. Honestly don't understand how people can criticise him, and as he says "walk up to me in a pub and tell me what I've done wrong". He's an absolute legend.

[@douglasorr7799]

Lovely Honest interview, Rugby needs more guys like you James. You will always be a Lion big fella.

[@harryflashman6828]

Agree with his amazing family support. I played hockey and rugby for my schools for about 7 years. My parents did not attend one single match home or away. Too wrapped up in their own lives. Chapeau The Haskell family.

[@spencerpjohnson]

Another great show. Has to be ranked as one of the top sports related shows. Real people, real conversations. Best of luck James in your next adventure(s).

[@SlicksterUK]

A legendary player and human being. I'm sad that Hask didn't finish on a high, winning RWC, but still a lot crammed into 34 years. He might not be playing rugby in the second half (of life) but sure he will be happy and fulfilled in whatever he does next. He deserves it too.

[@bluelebowski]

Congratulations on a great career James. Please stay involved in rugby and/or the sports media as characters are in short supply, everyone thinks they are a personality but few actually are. Good luck on your future endeavours, I am sure you will smash whatever you decide to do.

[@conrad152]

James is a gladiator and a lovely man.

[@dan8031]

From a Welshman, Hasks you’re a great ambassador to the game and your passion for the game speaks volumes. I am worried about your bestie Owen! A couple of coaching jobs going at Wales rugby if you’re interested

[@lesleydavies2988]

Big respect and congratulations on an amazing career 👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

[@Dyspathy]

I've only recently started getting into Rugby, I've played every other sport you can think of, but I haven't enjoyed and had the amount of satisfaction from those sports as I have with Rugby. You, Mr Haskell were one of the first people I looked into and took you as my idol per say ( Can you say idol at 22 yrs old?) Your sense of humour is fantastic and something I can relate to, your motivation and communication with your fans is great along side with your wife Chloe. I have your Perfect Fit book and it's the first nutrition plan I've been able to stick with and have had a positive attitude with since getting "older" and less fit. Thank you for letting us into your life and enjoying your career with you. I wish you all the best and happiness with whatever you plan to do next. Maybe a new KZbin series? Dairy of a Retired Rugby player but with the hint of denial? :P

[@jameshopkinson1874]

Great to share such an emotional moment with us. Well done for talking openly about how you are feeling. Great career by the way!!

[@sahilarora4402]

Got a university exam tomorrow but thought I'd pop in, thanks for everything Hask!

[@patrickmcgee9]

Great career Hask. Well done.

[@gusknott9958]

Nailed it! What a chat and what a man. Look back with pride Haskell and look forward with excitement. Congratulations.

[@AttilatheMike]

Haskell was a warrior...in his later career especially his performances have been world class, although he’s close to retirement age anyway I can’t help but think England have not found a replacement in the last couple of years for his strength, power and sheer presence. A great shame he’s had to retire early, thanks for all the great performances. Very sad to hear it’s ended this way...best of luck with your future career James.

[@MarkWoodwardPhotography]

A sad day, Hask is one of my favourite players, good luck in all that you do in the future James, thanks for the memories.

[@JohnSmith-ep2hh]

Hands down the best joe rugby video. Normally I have this on in the background while training but this time I had to give it my full attention. What sets James apart from all others is that he remains genuine. I remember watching him modestly shake the hands of fans after warriors matches had long finished and that was way before he was anywhere near as famous as he is now. A long career ahead of him in the media, or in whatever he chooses (although perhaps not as a pianist with those witch fingers haha). Top guy!

[@rfland14]

Alex said it well. I really hope the day comes quickly that you realise the impact, humour and ability you brought to Rugby. Scrum caps off to you Hask! Great game, have your orange slice and second half beckons!

[@ghx783]

Huge respect, Hask. Love you stuff on and off the field!

[@craigallam343]

Man! What a loss to all of us and the much wider world of rugby! Like so many others here and further afield, have loved watching you maraud around the pitch never giving less than 100%, heart on your sleeve, passion obvious! Thank you so much for the memories and joy. So look forward to the next Hask!

[@his1ojd]

Congratulations on a brilliant career James, you can take great pride in what you've achieved. Looking forward to seeing more of you in the media in the future

[@fleshen]

Your a good lad Hasks! Hope all goes well for the future mate from Wales! Looking forward to many more broadcasts!

[@hoakiss99]

You have a huge heart James . . . keep following it.

[@BSRUGBY]

Great open and honest interview. Your service to rugby on and off the field has been incredible, hold you head James. Good luck for the future

[@simoncooper913]

I love this guy. We need More Haskell!!!!! Good luck for the future.

[@steviegoddard2656]

Well done James, a dying breed, rugby players that know the craic! Good career mate for a forward.

[@maiwai6]

all the best on your future endeavours legend!! God bless & best wishes from Fiji

[@ianmackney3089]

Hask my three favourite players of all time are Lomu, Dallaglio and Haskell. You have always amazed me by your physicality and bravery. My 12 year old son Monty has been playing since he was 4, is a complete rugby nut and knows about every player, in every team, in every league. Of all the players worldwide that he could choose to copy/emulate, he wears his red scrum hat because of YOU! We wish you well in your retirement and will miss you greatly.

[@seanobrien9166]

Love you Hask! Don't regret not celebrating the little moments along the way too much because it was that focus that got you where you needed to be. Enjoy retirement and best of luck in the rest of your journey. Love from Ireland!

[@huwwilliams9287]

Super sad to hear you've had to retire, you should be immensely proud of everything you've done. Don't let the negative social media tits cloud how the majority of us think of you. I'm a fanatical Wales supporter and I've never had anything but massive respect for you; you have been an inspirational player, so dedicated and passionate about your club and country. You'll go on to be hugely successful in whatever you do, all the best.

[@sh00termacg]

Hask, I've really enjoyed you on social media and presenting. Top Lad! Wishing you all the best in future!

[@tophrobson8768]

Congratulations on a great career James, you always gave your all for club and country. You're a top player and a top bloke.

[@rory184]

Mr Haskell,,you've been a legend in the game,and a thorn in every Welshman heart because of you amazing physicality,and determination. Never sell your career short,your an amazing professional, and a true rugby giant. Enjoy your retirement, and with your work ethic,I have no doubt you will succeed. Many congratulations on your career, Rory,,S.Wales

[@stevelovell3616]

Well done on a very impressive career James, you've been a colossus for club(s) and country. Great episode guys, thanks for sharing.

[@Kkpb-fh5vt]

Australia tour 2016. Thanks for the memories Hask. Keep up the great chat on here.

[@janforan]

We will miss you hask! Good luck in phase and keep delivering the goods in whatever it may be

[@branmaher6684]

When Haskell went to play in NZ, my respect for the man grew. As a kiwi who follows Super rugby, I knew he was being paid poorly, and he gained respect off a lot of kiwis for playing because he loves the game and wanted the kiwi rugby experience.

[@maz7726]

Thats exactly what i love about Hask, that never say die mind set, i have been there with a leg injury and still done some sort of phys. Never ever say die, mind over matter. Like Eminem says 'till i collapse'.

[@EnglishVeteran]

A very, very good interview, both ways, & actually quite emotional. I experienced similar feelings as James when I left The Armed Forces after 26 years; it was quite scary stepping “outside”! However it was exciting & I just kept looking forward. I remember James in the early days & have to say That Australian Tour was superb! The World of Rugby will be worse off without you James, but am certain you will add a lot of goodness to whatever you decide to do in the future. I wish you all the best.

[@conorkenny6648]

Good luck Hask! Huge respect. Be seeing you.

[@miketravis5878]

As a Saints fan I was desperate for you to do well when you joined the team, and so sorry that injury meant we didn’t see more of your skills at the Gardens. As an England fan, I thank you for the obvious heart and commitment that you always showed when wearing the red rose. You should be immensely proud of your first career and know that you are your own worst critic. Good luck with the next stage and don’t change. All the very best.

[@vintagemidcentury2693]

Like his honesty, he is really authentic.

[@BazStrickland]

Enjoy and thanks for the memories

[@daikayll1897]

Big thanks for sharing this moment with us James , not easy. Have a well earned breather now. Rugby needs blokes like you , ebulient , approachable and professional. A credit. All the very best James and this Welshman waits with eager anticipation for your playing memoirs. By the way , you can drink now using your right hand safely ! Hwyl Fawr , Pob Lwc

[@jamesgreen9611]

What a lovely fella, such a pleasure, so eloquent, ignore Will Greenwood lol, ignore any doubt, trust me, an old 51 year ex rugby player, now coaching Saracens Disability touch rugby ( volunteering ) and why ? Because it’s that feeling of giving back, James, it’s only just begun, you must be on a pitch inspiring players, maybe young kids with potential or with England selelctors. Good luck and I and all of the rugby world and your family, are watching and we are on your side..................... So “swing low “. James

[@drewb8r]

Brilliant interview. Thank you. Hope you get the Barbars gig.

[@geoffo00]

Great player great personality and so eloquently able to give an insight on so many aspects of the game. I think he’s verbalised what so many people think at times in their own careers. James you’ll be fine the best is yet to come .... Take over the RPA ... get on the board of CVC ... remember we are all here for a good time not a long time.

[@freddiewilloughby9951]

best on yet lads!! Loved the straight talking, I think metal health in men could be explored further on podcast

[@jonathanashcroft5927]

Hask big respect you #legend Congratulations on a great career and all the best of luck for future endeavours.

[@AhmedAhmed-xo8jr]

Top lad Hask, all the best in future endeavours chap.

[@zkavess7294]

Well done Hask. That Aus series is one the three or four highlights of rugby supporting lifetime so cheers for being a big player in that.

[@pempallett]

Can't wait for the 'tell all' book. If this interview is anything to go by, will be epic!

[@wendyizzard7323]

so sad that u leaving loved watching u play and u my idol

[@Jokes4561]

I will never forget that second test in Australia 2016. One of the best games of rugby I have ever seen and one of the greatest ever performances credited to Hask. An absolute brick wall with a scrum hat on. Enjoy retirement sir and thanks for the memories.

[@8563robbie]

Respect James- speaking from the heart. Genuine guy..... Saw you in the lounge at Old Thornes a few years ago. I was with my daughter who played rugby for Guernsey Ladies... - we only got as far as ".....look its James Haskell" wish I'd said hello and made a memory for my daughter... should've seized the moment... - you have seized plenty...Good luck in your retirement - big fan of the podcast....

[@draiguk]

As a Welshman, I've enjoyed your career, and you've always been both funny and respectful (unlike some) to the achievements of your opposition, most recently Wales. You've had some immense games throughout your career, the Lions tour was amazing, and I look forward to seeing what you get up to next. All the best wishes for your retirement Mr Haskell.

[@thomasbaker8839]

Superb pod! You two have a great relationship.

[@horm]

Best character in World Rugby. Sad to see your playing career end but look forward to the banter for years to come.

[@andrewibberson1887]

Hask a legend great to see what your like off the pitch a good bloke. All the best Andy Ibb

[@mortorv2030]

All the best Hask. Honest hard working lad. Great player to have on the field, and great banter off it. Good luck from a welshman! I'm sure the baa baas will call him this year!

[@satnav897]

This reminds me a lot of the thoughts that people have when they leave the military.

[@aaroneymere2311]

Big ups Haskell 👍🏻 top top man , love from Ireland x

[@sojkh]

Incredible career, and an incredible bloke! All the best best Hask

[@phoenixfridge1495]

Good luck James for the future Some great memories of you playing for club and country Loves the shows on KZbin Get into commentary We need the laughs as well as the insight