20 Questions: Nick Evans – Harlequins fly-half

Quins set for a big finish?
We are. It’s the money month now and all about momentum. We had a sticky patch but the sun’s shining, we’re smiling again and looking forward to the play-offs.
Why the sticky patch?
Every team goes through them and it was frustrating, but there was no panic. We had a good week in Spain and it’s how you come through it that counts.
Can you believe you’ve been here for five years?
No! Someone showed me the stats and I’ve played over 120 games, scored nearly 1,500 points and that just blew me away. It’s been a fantastic time.
What’s so special about Quins?
It’s the enjoyment factor that keeps me playing. I’m a firm believer that if you enjoy the club and the guys you’re playing with, you’ll play well yourself.
Easy decision to re-sign until 2016?
I had serious options in Japan and France but it came down to where I thought I’d enjoy myself the most. I like the ambition at Quins and my partner loves it here.
Fancy coaching after you finish playing?
It does appeal. I’m starting my Level 3 course next year and like helping the young guys. That’s the first step and I might look at doing some media punditry, too.
Teenage rugby heroes?
We’d watch the All Blacks on TV, then recreate the match afterwards and I was always Grant Fox. But I also really admired Stephen Larkham and modelled my passing and attacking game on him.
Where do you live in London?
Southfields, near Wimbledon, about 500 yards from the All England Tennis club. I’ve been there a couple of times and it’s brilliant. Strawberries and cream… yummy!
Has London life ticked all the boxes?
It has. We’ve done the West End shows, been to football matches, done all the sights and really made the most of things by travelling around Europe as well.
Best country visited?
Croatia. The beautiful coastline and clear blue water reminded me of New Zealand. I was brought up on the ocean and that’s one of the things you miss.
Love fishing, don’t you?
Yes, deep-sea ocean fishing. That’s a real passion of mine. If I didn’t play rugby I’d be a professional fisherman, charter a boat and take people out on to the ocean.
Enjoy other sports?
Golf, tennis and football. I’ve also been to the basketball at the O2, NFL at Wembley and love going to watch the Boat Race. I love all that sort of stuff.
What’s your football team?
The boys made me pick a team so I follow West Ham. Danny Care loves Liverpool and Ugo Monye’s a big Arsenal fan, so there’s plenty of banter.
If you could be another sportsman?
Tiger Woods. I enjoy my golf – play off a 15 handicap – and would love to be a pro golfer. Tiger really changed the face of the sport.
Best and worst banter at Quins?
Danny Care’s the best. He’s got the gift of the gab and always comes up smelling of roses. Worst is Mark Lambert, who’s just far too intelligent.
Best and worst dressed?
Worst are me, Ben Botica and Nic Mayhew… three scruffy Kiwis. Best is Ugo Monye, who’s very sharp and is king of the bling with all his watches and gear.
Pre-match rituals?
I’ve got a blue cap I always wear to matches and I like to have spaghetti Bolognese the night before a home game. Being a 10, I’m very routine based.
Best advice received?
“Nobody remembers who comes second!” That came from my dad and he was right. And before an All Blacks trial, when I was about 23, Highlanders coach Greg Cooper told me never to force things. He was right, too.
Favourite food?
Steak and chips. But another thing I really miss over here is freshly caught snapper between two slices of white, buttered bread. It’s beautiful.
Remaining career ambitions?
More silverware. Retaining the Premiership would be a good start but beyond that I’d love to lift the Heineken Cup and we’re making progress towards that.