A Chat with Nick Mullins
Ahead of our sporty short break next year, which includes tickets for the Six Nations clash between Italy and England at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, Nick sat down with us to talk about his life, career and how England will fare.
Please tell us a few highlights of your career as a sports commentator and journalist
I wish I could put in to words the mix of joy and sometimes sheer terror you go through when you know you're broadcasting to millions back home. Whether it's a big Six Nations game, a World Cup final, an Olympic opening ceremony or Centre Court at Wimbledon, it's quite a ride. One of the tricks is to imagine only one person's listening. For me it's my mum. That helps calm the nerves.
What about some of the most challenging moments?
The biggest challenge for any broadcaster, particularly for sports broadcasters like us reacting immediately to a live event, is to find the right words and tone to engage everyone watching and listening at home. What can you do to help them feel they're sitting in the seat next to you? That challenge is never bigger than on those extra special days when the event you're at resonates beyond sport, like the 1995 Rugby World Cup final in South Africa or the opening ceremony of the London Olympics. Then the lines between sport and real life are blurred.
Do you have a favourite person to interview?
The honest ones and the ones who keep you on your toes are always the most enjoyable. The ones who shoot you the look that suggests you've just asked the most ridiculous question in the world. Eddie Jones, Martin Johnson and Andy Murray might be on the list. If I had to pick a favourite though, it'd be our dog Waffle, who really doesn't care what I ask as long as there's food at the end of it.
What makes Rome special for you?
The Eternal City, at any time of the year, has always been a life-enhancing place to spend time. No other capital blends all that history with the buzz of the 21st Century quite like Rome. A Six Nations weekend and a simmering Stadio Olimpico simply adds to the thrill of it all.
Can you give us a teaser of what you will be talking about on the trip?
We'll obviously have plenty of rugby to chat about and you'll get to hear the pre-match gossip from both camps. I'll also teach you how to be a sports commentator; how to pick the right words, how to know (just as importantly) when to shut up, how to get the best out of your co-commentators… and how to spot an Italian prop under a pile of bodies from 75 metres!
What do you think are the real highlights of the trip?
If you've already visited Rome you'll know, but if this is going to be your first trip you'll find out. There's something extraordinary about a city where history you can touch seems to be around every corner. To stand in front of the Pantheon is one of life's great gifts. And then there are all those cool bars and restaurants a few steps away.
PS: It's taken me 25 years but I think I've discovered the best in town. I'll let you into the secret when we're over there.
How do you think England will get on in the tournament? Any stand out players or ones to watch?
There were clear signs at the back end of the last Six Nations - and during the summer tour to Argentina - that England are getting their act together. There's an exciting bunch of young players coming through and I can't wait to see how the likes of Fin Smith, Henry Pollock and Guy Pepper continue to develop. If they finish ahead of France then I'd imagine they'll be champions.
And a score prediction for Italy vs England
If Italy win we really will have stories to tell after the match. While they've come close recently - they lost by just three points in Rome two years ago - they've yet to beat England. All I can predict with any certainty is that rugby will be the winner. And we'll have lots of fun enjoying one of sport's greatest tournaments in one of the world's greatest cities.
