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About The Book

SHORTLISTED FOR THE SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT BOOK OF THE YEAR
'Crammed full of funny stories, below-the-belt banter and amusing observations, it’s gold' Rugby World


Once described as rugby’s answer to Ant & Dec, David Flatman and Mark Durden-Smith are the oddest of odd couples. Now this hugely popular rugby broadcasting double act have turned to dissecting and celebrating rugby union in book form. And, as you’d expect, it’s a brilliant combination of in-depth knowledge and hilarious stories.

Flats and Durders Offload covers every facet of the game, from surviving the front row, what it takes to be a leader, referees both good and bad, mind games, tournaments and, of course, what really happens on a rugby tour. They talk about the highs, including Flats not missing a tackle in his 90-second Six Nations appearance, and the lows, including Flats not making a tackle in his 90-second Six Nations appearance.

Familiar to millions of fans through their television work, they provide fascinating and entertaining insight into the sport they love. They reveal the hardest players, the greatest characters and the intimate secrets of the front row. They address key issues facing the sport, such as injury, retirement and the future of the game. Nothing is off limits and no quarter is given – to anyone.

With insightful analysis, unforgettable stories and the occasional food reference, Flats and Durders Offload is an unmissable read for all rugby fans.

About The Authors

David Flatman played rugby as a prop forward for Saracens and Bath between 1998 and 2012, making more than 250 club appearances and also winning eight caps for England. After retiring from the game, he moved into a career in broadcasting, working for Channel Five, ITV, BT Sport and Amazon Prime. This is his first book.

Mark Durden-Smith was born in central London in 1968 and has had a long career in television, working for ITV, Channel Four and Sky; he now presents Premiership Rugby on Channel Five. This is his first book.

Product Details

  • Publisher: Simon & Schuster UK (February 4, 2023)
  • Length: 320 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781398507104

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Raves and Reviews

'Crammed full of funny stories, below-the-belt banter and amusing observations, it’s presented in the form of a conversation, along the lines of their broadcasting double act. And it’s gold.'

– Rugby World

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