Mike, 36, had some words of praise for NZ rugby stars Richie McCaw and Dan Carter in a recent interview, where he opened up about his career, wife Zara Phillips and life after sport.
With Zara, he revealed the two got together in a slightly unconventional way by being friends first.
“We were hanging out socially first and then became best friends. Then gradually the relationship began as we realised we were spending all our time together,” Mike shared.
Now, of course, the two have been happily married for over three years and have one child together, Mia Grace.
Mike, who was a former English team captain and helped win the World Cup in 2003, has been embracing new opportunities since leaving the world of rugby, including a stint in reality television. After a long career representing England in the sport, he has a high opinion of his Kiwi rivals as well!
“Jonny Wilkinson showed everyone how to be in the professional era,” he said.
“Guys in New Zealand like Dan Carter and Richie McCaw followed his lead.”
