By Nik Simon for the Daily Mail
Published: 22:32 BST, 7 May 2019 | Updated: 22:46 BST, 7 May 2019
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England star James Haskell has revealed how he broke down in tears when he told his team-mates that his World Cup dream was over.
The flanker announced his retirement on Tuesday after winning 77 caps, three Six Nations titles, three Premiership titles and one European Cup.
Known for being one of the game’s most colourful characters, he is surely destined for a new career in the spotlight but admits he is terrified of the future.
James Haskell announced his retirement from professional rugby on Tuesday
The flanker, pictured with Chris Robshaw (left) and Billy Vunipola, enjoyed a superb career
The 34-year-old has experience in broadcast, writing, DJing and nutrition but admits he has become institutionalised by rugby’s production line.
‘Finding my feet again is going to be really hard,’ said Haskell. ‘I’ve been in this kind of environment since boarding at eight years old to 34… I’m like Brooks from Shawshank Redemption. I said goodbye to the lads the other day and I broke down, I blubbed in front of them, I couldn’t get my words out. My wife was more disappointed than anyone because I didn’t even cry on my wedding day!
‘There are a lot of emotions with it. I speak to a lot of players who have retired and they find it hard. A lot of sportsmen get depression, all sorts of mental health issues. I’ve got stuff in place but structure is going to be a big thing. Making sure I’m up at a certain time, working, training — I’m a workaholic so I’ll never sit back.
‘I’ve done all this stuff but I’m unemployed at the end of the year and I don’t have a guaranteed salary.’
