We all know of James Haskell’s unparalleled respect at London Wasps, and his impressive performances returning to the competitive spot at flanker for England on the tour of New Zealand further enhanced his reputation. His presence on the pitch matches his impressive physical presence, and in the first test of the tour he racked up a leading tackle count at 14 and gained the visitors four turnovers; reminiscent of the James Haskell of the past. So how did this rise again to form and favour come about?
James Haskell: English Giant
Haskell’s career is testament to the success of the grassroots structure English rugby has in place, coming up through to play for London Wasps. His impressive size soon had him recognised international credentials as he represented England at U18, U19, U21 level, whilst proving that his size did not come at the cost of athleticism as he also proved himself playing for England Sevens.
His lack of discipline however cost him, notably in a match against Saracens where he was one of the few players in the game to be awarded a retrospective yellow card. He has also been criticised for giving away soft penalties. This did not stop him scoring twice in the opening match of the 2010 Six Nations campaign against France.
His antics after the dismal display in the 2011 World Cup, under the short lived leadership of Martin Johnson, gained him no favours. Despite this, after a trip to the southern hemisphere playing for Highlanders and Japanese side, the Rams and then back to his home club Wasps. Under Lancaster’s more stringent and commanding leadership, he has returned to form and returned to discipline providing an enormous asset to England, covering the whole back row. I do not think he is likely to push Wood from his starting spot or break into the Vunipola/Morgan battle and even less likely to depose captain Robshaw, but an asset he remains.
Rising from enormous pressure as he was tagged England’s future captain from a very early stage in his career, he has exceeded expectations in my eyes to return to a place in his life where he can perform internationally. He is a more sensible and professional athlete to accompany his extraordinary size and strength, whilst providing experience not only with his 50+ caps, but his taste of rugby overseas. Overall I was pleased to see him return to a stage where he can be considered to add to his impressive cap tally, and I think emphasis should be placed on his comeback into the England setup, rather than his fall from favour.
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