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SAS: Who Dares Wins star Jason Fox on not tackling Jonah Lomu, why Ben Earl could be in the SAS and his love of the Army v Navy game
Jason Fox, known for his role on SAS who Dares Wins, recently shared his lifelong passion for rugby in an interview. Here’s what he had to say about his experiences as a fan.
First Experiences at Twickenham
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Fox reminisced about his first rugby match, an England versus Wales game at Twickenham around 1990. He attended with his father, recalling the excitement of watching players like Will Carling and Rory Underwood.
“I remember it being awesome and it has been the same ever since, which is why I go as often as possible,” Fox stated, mentioning his attendance at recent New Zealand and South Africa games. “I remember the buzz of it, like a fortress.”
describing his match-day routine, Fox humorously noted it “normally involves a lot of drink,” starting with beers in Clapham before heading to Twickenham. He also highlighted the importance of the Army vs. Navy game,a major event for military personnel.
“Everyone descends onto Twickenham from around the country and it’s always a sellout,” he explained, recalling his time with the Royal Marines and later the Special Boat Service. “It’s carnage but it’s awesome.”
Rugby Heroes and Military Values
Fox spoke of his early admiration for Brian Moore and Will Carling,noting the surreal experience of now interacting with such figures. He also drew parallels between soldiers and rugby players, emphasizing teamwork, dedication, and sacrifice.
“There are a lot of skilful rugby players who weren’t quite good enough to make the top tier who have since gone into the military,” Fox said. “Then I know some military guys who got really good at rugby and then got professional contracts.”
Facing Jonah Lomu
When asked about players he wouldn’t want to face, Fox promptly named Jonah Lomu. “Easy,” he said.”It’s such a shame he was so affected by illness in his career… He was a monster and I couldn’t imagine playing against him. He had tree trunks for legs.”
all Black jonah Lomu slips a South African tackle (Getty Images)
Mental Health and Advice
Fox emphasized the importance of addressing mental health in both rugby and the military. “It doesn’t mean you’re not tough, or not good at rugby or not a good soldier if you say you’re struggling,” he stated, advocating for open conversations and support systems.
Lessons for the Team
When asked what advice he would give to both a squadron and a rugby team, fox highlighted readiness, visualization of success, and focusing on the present moment.
SAS: Who Dares Wins – Rugby Edition?
Discussing which rugby players he’d like to see on SAS: Who Dares Wins, Fox mentioned Austin healey for his outspoken nature and Ben Earl for his toughness and endurance. He also noted the injury risk for rugby players on the show.
Unexpected Encounters
Fox humorously recounted bumping into David Flatman in a urinal.
Dream arctic Expedition Team
For an Arctic expedition,Fox chose Brian O’Driscoll for his attitude and Keith Wood for morale,adding,”That will annoy the English lads.”
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