20 Questions: Ashley Johnson – London Wasps flanker

Enjoyed the move to Wasps?
I really have. The culture is a bit different from South Africa but I’ve been fortunate with the club and my family’s well settled near our Acton training ground.
How’s London life?
Away from rugby it’s like being on holiday. We go into town to see the sights and are regular visitors to Kew Gardens.
How else do you chill?
Not much time for that, I’m afraid. We’ve got seven-month-old twins and a boy of four, so I spend pretty much all my time with the family or at rugby.
Was rugby always in your blood?
Yes. I was brought up in a rugby-mad family in Cape Town and was picked up by Western province at quite a young age, so I was always destined to play.
Boyhood rugby idols?
My father, Archie, played prop for Western Province and I grew up following him. But I idolised Bobby Skinstad and Zinzan Brooke and always knew I’d be a back row.
Why leave South Africa?
After leaving Western Province I had five or six good years with the Cheetahs and played a lot of Super 15 and Currie Cup, but I just needed a new challenge.
How is it working with Dai Young?
He’s a really good guy who’s very straightforward. I’ve learnt a lot from him and the way he manages the squad seems to get the best out of players and coaches.
Anything unusual about Dai?
His accent! When I first arrived I couldn’t understand a word he said. It was mutual but we seem to have worked out how to communicate now.
How have you found English rugby?
It’s very different in how it’s played and officiated. Conditions are different, too, but I like the way the game’s played here and it suits my style of play.
Impressed with Christian Wade?
Not just him, we have talented youngsters all through the team. But he always amazes because you see him score a great try and then he scores a better one.
Should Wadey tour with the Lions?
I’d take him. He’d be a real asset on those dry Australian pitches and the Wallabies wouldn’t know much about him. He’d be a real surprise package.
Happy Wasps’ takeover is complete?
It was never really a problem and all the guys got on with their business, but it’s a relief knowing that side of the club is sorted and things are financially sound.
Best and worst dressed at Wasps?
Best is Christian Wade. He’s a cool dude and always looks fresh in his smart jeans and hoodie or cap. Worst by a long way is Billy Vunipola who looks like a tramp and has no dress sense whatsoever.
Anything you’d change about rugby?
Yes, bring the North and South seasons into line. That would make the game more global and you could then have a proper club world championship.
Enjoy any other sports?
I like to play a bit of golf and tennis but it’s difficult with the weather and kids. I keep up to date with the football and I’m a Manchester United supporter, so I would love to visit Old Trafford.
Another sportsman you’d like to be?
Tiger Woods… golf, loads of women, money, got the lot! Seriously, I would love to play golf to a high level and to do what’s he’s done in the game is amazing.
Favourite meal?
I love a barbecue – or brai as we South Africans call it – but I’m struggling with your weather conditions!
Holiday destination?
Queenstown in New Zealand, but I’m really starting to appreciate Cape Town’s sun, mountains and beautiful beaches – everything London doesn’t have!
Pre-match ritual?
My son, Jordan, always helps clean my boots. He did it once and I played a good game so we’ve stuck with it and always do it before I pack my bag.
What are your pet hates?
Two-faced people who say one thing and do something else, because I like to take people at their word. I don’t like having my hair pulled either.