20 Questions: Brad Barritt – Saracens and England centre
Hugely excited… it’s a massive opportunity for this young squad. A Test series in SA is a very hard prospect though.
Relishing a return to your native country?
I’m hugely proud and privileged to play for England and have the support of my family, but to go back to a country steeped in rugby like South Africa is massive.
Any issues playing for England?
My grandparents were born in England and grandfather played for England Universities. I have strong English roots and a lot of my extended family, aunts and uncles, live in England… so no, no issues.
Can you enjoy a tough tour like this?
You enjoy the tour by being successful. You can see a country steeped in culture and opportunities like South Africa, but first and foremost it’s about being successful on the pitch, then you can soak up what goes along with it.
Joker in the camp?
Chris Ashton has his moments, but he’s only got a 2/10 strike-rate of actually making people laugh.
Best trainer?
Boring answer… but we’re blessed with a group of guys who all want to work hard and get the best out of each other. There are no slackers.
Cleverest player?
Lee Mears seems like a very intelligent guy. He’s got a business background and is eloquently spoken. He’s a bit of a techie as well.
What impresses you most about this England squad?
That we’ve got a lot of guys who are here for the right reasons and want to work hard for each other.
How do you chill out?
I enjoy watching movies or grabbing a coffee with someone. I like going to the theatre in London and I’m also doing a degree in business management. It’s nice to have a few avenues outside rugby.
Food and drink?
I love Sushi and Lipton Iced Tea. I don’t drink much alcohol, but if I do I’ll have a red wine.
Guilty pleasure?
That would be the Marks & Spencer all-butter chocolate chip cookies. On very special occasions those can come out.
Describe Steve Borthwick?
Brilliant! He’s an inspirational guy who’s been wonderful during my time at Saracens. As a captain he commands respect.
Playing idols growing up?
Gary Teichmann, the former Natal Sharks and Springboks captain, caught my eye. Jeremy Guscott also made a huge impression on me during the 1997 Lions tour. The other one would be Jonah Lomu, who took the rugby world by storm.
Team-mate you’re a little afraid of?
None. If the situation arises I’ll back myself. I’m not scared of getting a clubbing and wouldn’t like to back down.
Best moment in rugby?
My first cap for England against Scotland in the Six Nations. I was immensely proud to get that opportunity. Second would be winning the Premiership with Saracens.
Person you most admire?
Easy… Nelson Mandela. He did wonders for South Africa when I was growing up and led the country into democracy. He inspired South Africans to get on with their lives and forgive and forget.
Rugby law you’d change?
The re-setting of scrums. Ideally the ball would come out first time, every time.
Superstitions?
I like a spaghetti Bolognese the night before a game
Anything you miss about South Africa?
Durban is home and family and friends is what you miss most. And of course the beach and my jet-ski!
Ambitions?
To play for England in the 2015 World Cup, carry on playing for Saracens and then have my own property company. That would be ideal.
