Martin Bayfield

Former England Rugby International, Actor,  BT Sport Premiership Rugby Presenter, ITV Rugby World Cup Reporter & Author of ‘A Very Tall Story’

Martin Bayfield’s Biography:

Martin Bayfield is a former England rugby international, broadcaster and actor best known for his distinguished rugby career and prominent role in sports media. Standing at 6’10”, he was one of the most recognisable figures in international rugby during the 1990s. Playing as a lock forward, Martin earned 34 international caps for England between 1991 and 1996 and was part of two Five Nations Grand Slam-winning squads. His success on the international stage established him as one of England’s most respected forwards of the era.

Martin began his professional life working as a police officer before making the move into rugby in 1989. He joined Bedford Blues and later Northampton Saints, where his physical presence and athletic ability quickly established him as a formidable player in domestic rugby. His performances at club level led to international selection, and he made his debut for England in 1991.

During the early 1990s, Martin played a key role in England’s dominance in the Five Nations Championship, contributing to Grand Slam victories in both 1992 and 1995. In 1993, he toured New Zealand with the British & Irish Lions, earning three caps against the All Blacks. His playing career continued through the decade until it was cut short in 1998 following a serious neck injury that forced him to retire from professional rugby.

Following his retirement from the sport, Martin moved into broadcasting, where he developed a successful career as a presenter, pundit and commentator. He has contributed to major rugby coverage across television and radio and also worked on BBC One’s Crimewatch for several years. Alongside broadcasting, he has appeared in film and television, including working as Robbie Coltrane’s body and stunt double for the character Rubeus Hagrid in the Harry Potter films. In 2022, he published his memoir ‘A Very Tall Story’, reflecting on his experiences in sport, media and life after professional rugby.

Why Hire Martin Bayfield?

Martin is hired as a speaker for his unique journey from frontline policing to international rugby and broadcasting. Drawing on his experiences in elite sport and the media, he shares powerful lessons about teamwork, resilience and performing under pressure.

His work as a presenter and pundit for BT Sport and as a reporter for ITV’s Rugby World Cup coverage has given him a deep understanding of the modern sporting landscape. Combining humour with insight from both the rugby pitch and the broadcast studio, Martin delivers engaging talks that explore leadership, teamwork and the mindset required to succeed in high-performance environments.

Martin Bayfield’s Career Highlights:

Here are some of the key milestones that define Martin Bayfield’s remarkable career in rugby:

• 2025 – Continued appearing as a rugby presenter and pundit across major competitions including the Premiership Rugby and European Rugby tournaments for leading broadcasters.
• 2022 – Published his memoir A Very Tall Story reflecting on his rugby career and life experiences.
• 2018 – Reached the final of BBC One’s Celebrity MasterChef showcasing his passion for cooking.
• 2016 – Co-presented BBC Crimewatch until the programme’s final broadcast.
• 2013 – Joined BT Sport as a presenter, pundit and pitch-side reporter for Premiership Rugby coverage.
• 2011 – Presented ITV’s coverage of the Rugby World Cup.
• 2007 – Presented ITV’s coverage of the Rugby World Cup.
• 2005 – Became rugby correspondent for BBC Radio 5 Live covering major international tournaments.
• 1995 – Played a key role in England’s Five Nations Grand Slam-winning team.
• 1993 – Toured New Zealand with the British & Irish Lions earning three caps against the All Blacks.
• 1992 – Part of England’s Five Nations Grand Slam-winning squad.
• 1991 – Earned his first international rugby cap for England.
• 1989 – Left the police force to pursue professional rugby with Bedford Blues and Northampton Saints.