‘Dublin, I mean that was one of the more fun times of my life. I’d never really experienced Irish people. They’re funny people, and they love taking the piss too’

Big centre spent two seasons at Leinster before playing for England and the Lions – now he’s coaching the Brisbane Broncos in the NRL

Ben Te’o doesn’t watch a whole lot of rugby union these days, but when the Lions came to Brisbane he made sure to pick up a ticket. Eight years on from starting in the first Test against the All Blacks, he was looking forward to seeing a few of his former teammates and coaches.

Then, his appendix burst and he had to tune in from his hospital bed.