James Haskell

Former England Rugby Grand Slam Winner, Premiership Champion, Author of ‘What a Flanker’ & Co-Host of ‘The Good, The Bad & The Rugby’

James Haskell’s Biography:

James Haskell is a former England international rugby player turned broadcaster, bestselling author and entrepreneur who has successfully transitioned from elite sport into media and business. Best known for earning 77 caps for England and touring with the British & Irish Lions, James built a reputation as one of the most dynamic back row forwards of his generation. Since retiring from professional rugby, he has become a prominent media personality, podcast host and DJ. His natural charisma, humour and direct communication style make him a highly engaging keynote speaker who shares lessons on leadership, teamwork and resilience drawn from life at the highest levels of sport.

James began his rugby journey at Wellington College before joining the Wasps academy, where his physical presence and work ethic quickly earned him a place in the senior squad. He made his professional debut for Wasps at just 18 years old and soon established himself as a powerful and versatile flanker. During his playing career, he gained international experience across several countries, representing clubs including Stade Français in Paris, the Highlanders in New Zealand and Ricoh Black Rams in Japan. These experiences exposed him to different playing styles and cultures, helping to shape the leadership skills and adaptability that later defined his international career with England.

On the international stage, James became a central figure in the England squad during the 2010s. He was part of the Wasps team that won the Premiership title and went on to represent England at the Rugby World Cups in 2011 and 2015. One of the defining moments of his career came during the 2016 Six Nations when England secured a Grand Slam, followed by a historic 3–0 series victory against Australia, where James was named Man of the Series. In recognition of his performances, he was selected for the British & Irish Lions tour of New Zealand. Away from the field, he became a Sunday Times bestselling author with the books ‘What A Flanker’ and ‘Ruck Me’.

Since retiring from professional rugby, James has built an impressive media career. He co-hosts the widely popular podcast The Good, The Bad & The Rugby alongside Alex Payne and Mike Tindall, offering insight and humour on the modern game. He has also developed a successful career as a DJ and broadcaster while regularly appearing on television and at major live events. Drawing on experiences from elite sport, media and business, James delivers powerful talks that inspire audiences to embrace challenge, perform under pressure and sustain success beyond a first career.

Why Hire James Haskell?

James Haskell is hired as a speaker for his ability to translate elite sporting experience into practical lessons for business and leadership. Having competed at the highest level of international rugby and later built a successful media career, he speaks with honesty about pressure, resilience and adapting to change. His presentations combine humour with powerful stories from the dressing room and the global sporting stage, helping audiences understand how high performing teams operate. With strong stage presence and natural charisma, James energises audiences while delivering clear insights on leadership, accountability and sustained performance.

James Haskell’s Career Highlights:

Here are some of the key milestones that define James Haskell’s incredible career:

• 2025 – Headlined SALTEX
• 2024 – Headlined the London 7s LIT7s After Party as a DJ while continuing to grow his media and podcast presence.
• 2023 – Continued hosting the global rugby podcast The Good, The Bad & The Rugby alongside Alex Payne and Mike Tindall.
• 2022 – Expanded his media career through broadcasting, live event hosting and keynote speaking engagements worldwide.
• 2020 – Published the book Ruck Me, a follow up to his bestselling rugby memoir.
• 2019 – Retired from professional rugby after a career spanning Premiership Rugby, Super Rugby and international competition.
• 2017 – Selected for the British & Irish Lions tour of New Zealand.
• 2016 – Named Man of the Series in England’s historic 3–0 Test series victory over Australia and won the Six Nations Grand Slam with England.
• 2015 – Represented England at the Rugby World Cup on home soil.
• 2011 – Played for England at the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand.
• 2008 – Won the Premiership title with Wasps during his early professional career.