England’s most-capped forward and all-round rugby legend, Jason Leonard, has dropped a selection for the ages: his ultimate Boozing XV.
Known for his humor and camaraderie, Leonard’s team features a mix of legendary drinkers, team pranksters, and, most importantly, a designated driver.
Let’s dive into this dream lineup!
Full-back: Gavin Hastings (Scotland)
The towering Scotsman is more than just a rugby icon; Hastings also makes a brilliant partner for long sessions of storytelling and whisky appreciation.
Wing: Rory Underwood (England)
Flying winger Underwood earns the crucial designated driver role in Leonard’s XV. A cool head on and off the pitch, you can count on Rory to get the team home safely.
Centre: Jerry Guscott (England)
Jerry brings elegance to the midfield and to the bar, known for his sharp wit and penchant for a good wine. He’s the classy presence every boozing XV needs.
Centre: Scott Gibbs (Wales)
Destructive on the pitch and dynamic off it, Gibbs can bulldoze through pints like defenders. A must-have for any session.
Wing: Scott Hastings (Scotland)
Gavin’s brother Scott adds double trouble to the mix. Known for his lively character, Scott ensures the laughs keep rolling.
Outside-half: Stuart Barnes (England)
A maestro on the field and a conversationalist at the pub, Barnes can spin a yarn as well as he spins a pass.
Scrum-half: Robert Jones (Wales)
Quick-witted and sharp-tongued, Jones starts the night strong but hands the baton to England’s Dewi Morris at half-time for the second round of the evening.
Prop: Paul Rendall (England)
A prop who knows his way around both scrums and pint glasses, Rendall is a cornerstone of Leonard’s front row.
Hooker: Brian Moore (England)
Moore’s fiery passion on the pitch translates to unforgettable pub debates. Every boozing XV needs someone who keeps things lively, and Moore is perfect for the role.
Prop: Jeff Probyn (England)
Dependable, hearty, and full of laughs, Probyn rounds out a front row that’s built for stamina—on and off the pitch.
Lock: Wade Dooley (England)
Known as the “Blackpool Tower,” Dooley’s towering presence and dry humor make him a pub session favorite.
Lock: Norm Hadley (Canada)
A Canadian enforcer with a taste for the good stuff, Hadley is the international wild card of this boozing XV.
Flanker: Peter Winterbottom (England)
Reliable and tough as nails, Winterbottom ensures the evening has no shortage of grit and good vibes.
No. 8: Dean Richards (England)
Richards combines size and stamina, making him a natural fit for both the back row and a marathon session at the bar.
Flanker: Mickey Skinner (England)
“The Munch” Skinner is here to close out the lineup with his infectious energy and endless stories—an absolute legend on and off the field.
EDITORS PICKS:
- Leicester issue worrying update on England forward Ollie Chessum
- Andy Farrell confirms he will step down as Ireland head coach this weekend
- World Rugby confirms FOUR ‘fan-focused’ law changes for 2025 Six Nations
- Gloucester name their asking price for number 8 Zach Mercer
- BBC ‘priced out’ of Six Nations, will likely go behind paywall next year
Can you name the entire British & Irish Lions squad from their tour of New Zealand in 2005?
The British & Irish Lions’ tour of New Zealand in 2005 remains one of the most talked-about campaigns in rugby history.
Despite facing a formidable All Blacks side, the squad was packed with legendary talent representing England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
From unforgettable tries to moments of controversy, this tour had it all—and it’s time to see just how much you remember!
Can you recall every player who pulled on the famous red jersey during that iconic tour? Dive into this quiz to test your Lions knowledge and relive a piece of rugby history!
