20 Questions: Davey Wilson – Bath and England prop

Enjoy being involved against New Zealand last week?
It was the highlight of my international career. To beat the All Blacks – the world champions – it doesn’t get much better. I’m still on a high.
Wish you’d got on earlier?
It would’ve been nice because the game was done and dusted by then. But there was nothing to lose and even watching the first 72 minutes was a pleasure.
Hard getting past Dan Cole?
I’m chipping away but it’s difficult. He’s very reliable and does what he does all of the time. He’s a top bloke who’s playing well.
Emotional dressing room afterwards?
We were all elated and there was definitely a good vibe. We put in a lot of hard work over the series and to come out and beat New Zealand was the icing on the cake.
Regrets over not beating Australia and South Africa?
A little, but had we lost to the All Blacks as well there would have been a lot of regret. I felt we should have got more out of Australia and South Africa.
What was said at your Sunday debrief?
Stuart Lancaster congratulated us on our performance against New Zealand, but the feeling is we need to take that into the Six Nations and build on it. We’ve set the bar and must go higher.
Who did you room with?
I was with James Haskell but thankfully I didn’t have to listen to him too much. He complained about me leaving strapping everywhere but he’s a good lad and his banter is relentless. Him and Chris Ashton are brilliant to have around.
Tell us something unusual about Haskell
He’s got two mobile phones – one for his agent and I don’t know what the other one’s for!
Back to Bath now… tricky adjustment?
It’s been a few weeks, hasn’t it? But it’s good to see the boys again and to sleep in my own bed. I’ve got to learn all the lineout calls again but I’m looking forward to some game time.
How do you chill-out?
Mainly with my wife and little one. I’ve got a young lad of 15 months and he keeps me busy. He’s a big boy and looks like he might be a useful scrummager!
Like any other sports?
I watch a bit of football and Newcastle Utd are my team.
How did you get into rugby?
I was too rough for football so my dad took me down to Westoe Rugby Club when I was 11. I went on to play for England U16s and joined Newcastle Falcons.
Still keep an eye on the Falcons?
Yes. They’re unbeaten and I’m sure they’ll come back to the Premiership stronger under Dean Richards. He’s a really good manager.
Teenage rugby idols?
Being from the North East it was all Jonny Wilkinson. But I used to look up to Falcons prop Micky Ward as well. He’s still going strong and doing a great job at Blaydon.
Opinion of the new scrum engagement?
I was sceptical at first but it probably has improved it. We’re engaging quicker and scrums seem to be over quicker with less collapses, so that’s a good thing.
Can you cook and what’s your favourite food?
I can just about manage a poached egg! I enjoy going to Wagamama and I love Yo!Sushi as well… it’s all ready-made on the belt and you don’t have to wait long.
Best places you’ve toured?
I enjoyed Canada for the Churchill Cup and loved New Zealand, too. They love their rugby and the scenery is stunning.
What’s Gary Gold been like in charge at Bath?
He’s unbelievably passionate. Our work-rate has improved and Gary’s driven that into our game. He’s passed on his enthusiasm and our defence is better, too.
Other sportsmen you’d swap places with?
David Beckham’s got the money AND the lifestyle, so that wouldn’t be bad. And Wilko’s doing OK in the South of France… either of those would do.
Ambitions for the season?
To win the Six Nations with England and get into the top four with Bath.