Dubai is a magnet for ex-rugby players. How many times is it that you have visted the city?
I visit Dubai for around ten weeks of the year. There are more opportunities for people here in the Middle East and the business environment is more buoyant than in the UK. I have an involvement with the new Dubai Rugby Academy, which is a great new initiative for young rugby players between the age of 12 and 19, so apart from enjoying the golf here I am very busy.
Other than holding court at The Stables, what will you get up to on your visit?
This visit is for the launch of the Dubai Rugby Academy. We identified that youngsters in the region would benefit from some advice, training and support from people who have experienced rugby at the highest levels. The standards here are very high, and the enthusiasm is abundant. Hopefully we can nurture this to enable UAE kids to be on a par with the UK, South Africa, Australia and other kids in developed rugby countries.
You’ve made a name for yourself as an after-dinner speaker, but who would your dream dinner party guests be?
Cheesy and sad, I know, but for dinner I would invite my family. Over the years I’ve spent so much time away with rugby. I missed birthdays, weddings and Christenings whilst playing rugby. I am now enjoying all of the time I can get with them. It’s great being with them now, hearing old stories and seeing how the younger members of the family are growing up. They’re all extremely valuable to me.
Who wouldn’t you invite?
I would not invite any New Zealand rugby player. Yes you’ve finally won the Webb Ellis trophy [Rugby World Cup]. Can we possibly move on now, please?
Who would cook for you?
My Grandma – Jamaican cuisine at it’s best.
What would be your secret to public speaking?
Knowing your audience. Stories about Moscow jails tend to go over the heads of primary school kids.
What are you better at: talking about rugby or playing rugby?
Now I’m better at talking rugby. Watching myself looks like [I’m playing in] slow-mo. But, of course, I love to pull on my boots on occasionally.
Would you get into the current Welsh side?
The current Welsh side has a fantastic group of men. Would I get in? I would do everything it takes to get in.
Now you’ve retired, who has the best hair in rugby?
World rugby is missing great hair. Adam Jones [of Wales] is flying the flag, I guess. Bring back Chabal!
An evening with Colin Charvis takes place on May 1 at The Stables. Dhs395 for six hoppy beverages or a bottle of grape. 8pm, The Stables, Sheikh Zayed Road (04 342 5571).
