20 Questions: Daniel Browne – London Welsh back row

Just 35… is happy birthday in order?
Thanks. I’ve been getting lots of grief off the boys! Quite a few were born in the 90s and I didn’t think I’d still be playing at this stage.
Planning to retire?
I wasn’t sure if I’d look past this season but I’m enjoying it and feeling good so I wouldn’t mind a final crack at the Premiership.
London Welsh looking good?
Great. We targeted the top four and we’ve done that so excitement is growing. Looking forward to the play-offs and there’s a really good vibe.
Where did you start out in New Zealand?
As a junior at Ponsonby and I made the Auckland Blues‘ Colts. But I wanted to travel after I finished Uni, Bedford needed a player in 2000 and I fitted the bill.
Player you’ve most admired?
Zinzan Brooke, for everything he could do as a back row forward. He was as close to a back as you can be with his kicking and ball skills and his presence on the field was unbelievable. He’s the back rower I always wanted to be.
Best bits of your career?
Really enjoyed my time at Grenoble and playing for big clubs like Northampton and Bath. The three years at Bath were my most enjoyable.
Career highlight so far?
Winning the Challenge Cup with Bath in 2008. We played good rugby that year and had a really good squad.
Is that right your dad’s Irish?
Yes. He left Ireland at 15 or 16 then travelled to New Zealand and never left. I would have loved to play for Ireland and there was a bit of interest when I was at Saints, but it wasn’t to be.
Ever regretted not trying Super 15?
Not really. I had a few chances to play in Ireland and it might have helped me internationally, so maybe I missed an opportunity there.
How do you chill-out?
Are you kidding? Just looking after my two boys, Rocco (3 years) and Sonny (15 months) is 24/7. And no, the little one is not named after Sonny Parker!
Any hobbies or pastimes?
I own a few flats and do a bit of property management with one eye on the future, although I wouldn’t mind being a player agent when I pack up.
Why an agent?
Having dealt with agents in England and France, I’ve had good and bad experiences and would know how players want to be represented.
Play any other sports as a kid?
Tennis and basketball. I wasn’t good enough to be a pro tennis player but still enjoy watching it on TV when I get a chance.
Best places visited?
I really love going to America and I’ve had amazing times in Las Vegas and Miami. Dubai’s fantastic as well and the hotels are unbelievable.
Got any holidays planned?
I’m making an honest woman of my partner, Emma, this summer and we’re going to try and squeeze in a honeymoon – one week with the boys, one without!
Any good at cooking?
I’m really good at prawn linguine. I cook it with a bit of chilli, garlic, rocket, parmesan, lemon and tomatoes and it’s amazing!
If you could invite three dinner guests?
Charlie Sheen, as he’d be good value; Eddie Murphy to provide some gags; and we’d need a bit of eye candy, so I’ll go for Nicole Scherzinger.
Superstitions or pet hates?
Rugby-wise, I touch the ground and cross myself when I go on the pitch and I’ve worn the same undershorts for five years! Off the field, I have to have the TV volume on an even number and I hate people who eat with their mouths open, like our prop Cai Griffiths!
Best and worst banter at Welsh?
Ben Pienaar is the man who cheers everyone up and is the happiest bloke I know; Nick Scott is the biggest energy sapper who sucks the life from everyone.
Best and worst dressed?
I’m the best. But there’s a couple who are worst: Alex Hepburn, who looks like a Hillbilly, and Matt Corker, who dresses like an un-cool dad.