Michael Skinner

Michael Gordon Skinner (born ), also known as Mickey, Mick, and Mike, is a former English rugby union player who played at flanker for Harlequins, Blackheath and . His nickname was "Mick the Munch" because of his propensity to inflict bone-shaking tackles on the opposition. He was born in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne. He attended Walbottle Grammar School. Career Skinner is world-renowned for "The Tackle", his hit on Marc Cecillon in England's 1991 Rugby World Cup quarter final against in Paris. The match, which England won 19–10, was one of the most brutal in World Cup history. Prior to making his England debut Skinner was required as a late addition to the England squad for the inaugural World Cup in 1987. The R.F.U. however could not locate him which prompted an appeal from Desmond Lynam live on the BBC's Grandstand programme for Skinner to get in touch as his services were required. During his career Skinner won a total of 21 caps for England. He made his England debut on 16 January 1988 in England's 10–9 defeat to France in Paris during the Five Nations. His final game for England was on 7 March 1992 against at Twickenham as part of the Five Nations tournament.