The sportswriter and broadcaster began his on-air career exactly 40 years ago on an Auckland breakfast show. Up until last month, Phil hosted an afternoon slot on Newstalk ZB alongside Simon Barnett. Phil is also a columnist for the New Zealand Herald and a regular commentator for Newstalk ZB.

Phil is an author having published seven books under the name Loosehead Len, a satirical rugby character he created in 1973. He has also written rugby best-sellers including his book on Alex Wyllie, Grizz, The Legend, the biggest-selling New Zealand sports book of the 1990s.

Last month, Phil left Newstalk ZB Afternoons, the show he hosted with Simon Barnett.

Phil lives in Auckland with his wife Jan.