Aotearoa Rugby Pod
Ross Karl, Bryn Hall and James Parsons host a weekly chat about all things New Zealand rugby, from Super Rugby Pacific, the All Blacks, Bunnings NPC, Farah Palmer Cup, and Super Rugby Aupiki, the team have you covered with unique insight from current pros still in the game.
Episodes
Which Big Names Will Miss the All Blacks Squad?
With the All Blacks' northern tour squad about to be named, some big names are facing disappointment.Injuries, emerging talent and fierce competition have created some huge selection dilemmas. Ross and James debate the toughest calls, who deserves a chance and which players could be the unlucky ones.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/
Has Beauden Barrett Just Secured His World Cup Place?
Beauden Barrett has reminded everyone what he's capable of, but has he done enough to secure his place at the 2027 Rugby World Cup?Ross Karl, Bryn Hall and James Parsons break down the All Blacks' remarkable first half against Australia, the second-half struggles and the selection headaches facing Dave Rennie. From Timoci Tavatavanawai's starting audition to the fierce competition in t
REACTION: Tavatavanawai in for Bledisloe 2
The ARP crew goes Live on Youtube to discuss the sides named for Bledisloe 2, including the recall of Timoci Tavatavanawai and Du'Plessis Kirifi.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What Rugby Fans Don't See: Ben O'Keeffe on Life Under Pressure
What happens when the pressure of rugby’s biggest matches follows you home?Ben O’Keeffe joins the Aotearoa Rugby Pod for a deeply personal conversation about the moments that have tested him, the toll criticism has taken and the people who have helped him through his toughest times.From World Cup pressure to the fallout surrounding Rassie Erasmus’ infamous Lions tour video, Ben opens up about the
What Did the All Blacks’ Big Win Prove?
The All Blacks ran away from the Wallabies at Eden Park—but how many of their biggest questions did that performance answer?James Parsons and Ross Karl break down what changed after halftime and ask if the All Blacks produce the same game when they aren’t winning the collisions. Plus, did Australia really test their aerial defence, Josh Lord’s unseen work and the case for giving Timoci Tavatavanaw
REACTION: Bledisloe Cup 1 team namings
The ARP crew reacts to the teams named for Bledisloe Cup 1.From DMac at 10 to the bench makeup, plenty to talk here!Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The All Blacks Need an Answer. Is It Kyren Taumoefolau?
The All Blacks still have questions to answer — and could Kyren Taumoefolau provide one of them?We look at where the athletic Mako and Chiefs winger could fit, what he could offer heading towards the end-of-year tour and the World Cup, and the competition already building for places in the All Blacks back three. Plus, with the Bledisloe Cup heading to Eden Park, we assess the Wallabies threat, the
Why Bryn Chose the Canes for His Super Rugby Return
Bryn Hall is heading back to Super Rugby — and in 2027 he’ll be wearing Hurricanes colours.Bryn explains why the Canes became the right destination, what attracted him to the way they play, and why returning to New Zealand rugby appealed after his time in Japan. Chapters(00:00) Bryn Hall is a Hurricane(00:33) Why Bryn chose the Canes(01:16) What attracted him to Wellington(01:35) The Hurricanes co
The Big Problem If the Boks Are Gaming Concussion Rules
Did South Africa find a loophole in rugby’s HIA rules — or did something go badly wrong with the replacement process? The Springboks’ chaotic finish against the Wallabies raised bigger questions about how concussion replacements are supposed to work and who controls the process. Ross Karl, James Parsons and Bryn Hall also break down what Australia did so well for most of the test, plus four yellow
REACTION: No Leicester & Frizell returns to All Blacks Bledisloe squad
ARP goes live on YouTube to discuss the All Blacks squad for the Bledisloe. Hookers: Codie Taylor (capt), Asafo Aumua, Samisoni Taukei'aho Props: Ethan de Groot, George Bower, Xavier Numia, Tyrel Lomax, Fletcher Newell, Pasilio Tosi Locks: Scott Barrett, Josh Lord, Fabian Holland, Tupou Vaa'i Loose forwards: Simon Parker, Shannon Frizell, Anton Segner, Ethan Blackadder, Peter Lakai, Wallac
Does Rennie Dare Pick Leicester AND Timoci?
The All Blacks squad is named tomorrow — and one of the biggest questions is whether Dave Rennie can find room for Leicester Fainga’anuku AND Timoci Tavatavanawai.With injuries reshaping the Bledisloe Cup picture, Bryn Hall, James Parsons and Ross Karl discuss whether Shannon Frizell has done enough to force his way back into the mix — and if this is the moment for the All Blacks to take a few ris
How the Boks Stay a Step Ahead of the All Blacks
The All Blacks showed progress — so why do the Boks still seem one step ahead? Ross, James and Bryn unpack a revealing series, the moments that mattered and the questions New Zealand must answer before these rivals meet again.Plus, the players pushing their claims, a listener’s bold scrum idea and North Harbour’s big NPC win.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on
REACTION: All Blacks & Boks final test teams | The Battle of Baltimore
ARP goes live to discuss the All Blacks and Springboks teams for the third Greatest Rivalry test in Soweto🇳🇿 ALL BLACKS 🇿🇦 SPRINGBOKS1. Ethan de Groot 1. Ox Nche2. Codie Taylor (c) 2. Malcolm Marx3. Fletcher Newell 3. Wilco Louw4. Patrick Tuipulotu 4. Eben Etzebeth5. Sam Darry 5. Ruan Nortje6. Tup
Why the All Blacks Have a Springbok Problem
The All Blacks showed they can hurt South Africa. So why do the Springboks still keep finding a way to take control?After the Boks moved 2–1 ahead in the Greatest Rivalry series, James Parsons, Bryn Hall and Ross Karl break down the areas that keep swinging these contests South Africa’s way — and what New Zealand has to change.There are genuine reasons for optimism in the way the All Blacks are pl
REACTION: All Blacks & Boks 3rd test teams | How to win in Soweto
ARP goes live to discuss the All Blacks and Springboks teams for the third Greatest Rivalry test in Soweto🇳🇿 ALL BLACKS 🇿🇦 SPRINGBOKS1. George Bower 1. Ox Nche2. Asafo Aumua 2. Malcolm Marx3. Tyrel Lomax 3. Wilco Louw4. Tupou Vaa’i 4. Eben Etzebeth5. Sam Darry 5. Ruan Nortje6
Did the Springboks Find the Formula? | ARP x Behind the Ruck
The Greatest Rivalry is locked at 1–1 — so it’s time to take some receipts. 🇳🇿🇿🇦Aotearoa Rugby Pod and Behind the Ruck reunite to break down the Springboks’ response in test two and ask the big question: have South Africa found the formula to beat the All Blacks?James Parsons, Bryn Hall and Ross Karl go head-to-head with Rudi Paige and Juan de Jongh over what changed, where the two teams now sit,
Why Is Rennie Under Rassie’s Skin?
Rassie Erasmus and Dave Rennie’s off-field battle is becoming as fascinating as the tests matches.After South Africa levelled the Greatest Rivalry series against the All Blacks, Aotearoa Rugby Pod unpacks the gamesmanship, late selection changes and increasingly heated debate over the scrum.Plus, what the Springboks changed to win Test 2, why their aerial game caused New Zealand so many problems,
LIVE REACTION: All Blacks & Boks 2nd test teams | What changes in Cape Town?
ARP goes live to discuss the All Blacks and Springboks teams for the Greatest Rivalry test in Cape Town.🇳🇿 ALL BLACKS 🇿🇦 SPRINGBOKS1. George Bower 1. Ox Nche2. Codie Taylor 2. Malcolm Marx3. Tyrel Lomax 3. Wilco Louw4. Fabian Holland 4. Eben Etzebeth5. Tupou Vaa’i 5. Ruan Nortje6.
Aaron Smith: Roigard, Faf & How You Beat the Springboks
All Blacks great Aaron Smith joins the Aotearoa Rugby Pod for a deep dive into what it takes to beat the Springboks in South Africa.Smith breaks down the evolution of halfback play and why Cam Roigard impresses him so much, playing against Faf De Klerk, the challenge of the Boks’ line speed and where the All Blacks can find attacking opportunities, Plus, memories of playing at Ellis Park and what
Can the All Blacks Stop the Boks Striking Back?
The All Blacks are 1-0 up after Ellis Park – but the biggest questions may be ahead of them.Bryn Hall and James Parsons break down how New Zealand can fix the scrum and aerial issues exposed in the first test, what needs to change in Cape Town, and how Rassie Erasmus might respond as the Springboks look to level the Greatest Rivalry series.Plus, could mass changes be coming for the Boks – and will
ARP LIVE REACTION: All Blacks & Boks teams for test 1 | Who looks strongest?
ARP goes live to discuss the All Blacks and Springboks teams for the opening Greatest Rivalry clash at Ellis Park.Apologies for the audio quality on this one.What are the surprises? Which squad looks strongest?Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The All Blacks’ Plan to Beat Springbok Pressure | MIKE BLAIR
All Blacks attack coach Mike Blair joins ARP before the first test against the Springboks to discuss what New Zealand have learned from their three warm-up games in South Africa.Blair explains what has developed, where the biggest challenges will come from and how the All Blacks are preparing to deal with South Africa’s pressure.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hoste
The Boks' Weapon Rennie's All Blacks Haven’t Fully Faced
The All Blacks have won all three warm-up games in South Africa, but one of the Springboks’ most effective weapons has barely been faced. Coincidence — or was that always part of South Africa's plan? Bryn Hall, James Parsons and Ross Karl examine the battle that could look very different at Ellis Park.Plus, the major selection calls facing Dave Rennie: the back three, Preston v Ratima, the lock sq
REACTION: All Blacks team naming v Bulls | Mo'unga's return
ARP goes live after Dave Rennie's team naming for the opening Greatest Rivalry Tour game against the Bulls.We also react to Richie Mo'unga's announcement and look back at the first two performances.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
How Boks Have Been Built to Win | Kitshoff on All Blacks Challenge
World Cup-winning Springbok prop Steven Kitshoff joins Ross Karl and Bryn Hall for a Aotearoa Rugby Pod x For The Love Of Rugby South Africa collaboration.We break down what happens behind the scenes to make the Boks so good — from brutal scrum preparation and Rassie’s winning foundations to the systems keeping their wider squad Test-ready.Plus, what the Stormers and Argentina exposed about the Al
What Went Wrong With the All Blacks Attack in Cape Town?
The All Blacks got the win in Cape Town but it wasn't slick.Their attack didn’t impress like earlier in the season. Bryn Hall and James Parsons break down what changed against the Stormers, why it matters ahead of the Springbok tests, and which players pushed their case for bigger roles on tour.Plus, what Argentina showed against South Africa — and whether there were clues the All Blacks can use.D
REACTION: All Blacks team naming v Stormers Live Stream
ARP goes live to react to the team Dave Rennie's named for the opening Greatest Rivalry Tour game against the Stormers.Who is in and who isn't and why? What does it mean in the context of test selections?Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stolen Buses, a Series Win & Marc Ellis’s Party Trick | South Africa ’96
Thirty years after the All Blacks made history in South Africa, former All Blacks winger and master story teller Eric Rush takes us back to one of the wildest and most significant tours in New Zealand rugby history.He shares brilliant stories from the 1996 tour: hostile crowds, sleepless hotels, a mysteriously missing kicking tee, Nelson Mandela’s powerful message to the team, Jonah Lomu and the u
What Critics Miss About Ardie’s Rest | How Beauden Gets Back
What are critics overlooking about Ardie Savea’s delayed arrival in South Africa — and how can Beauden Barrett force his way back into the All Blacks’ test team.Ross Karl, Bryn Hall and James Parsons examine the decision to rest the captain and how it actually effects the inner workings of the team.They also look at a rare challenge for Beauden Barrett. After more than a decade as a near-automatic
Greatest Rivalry Debate - ARP x Behind the Ruck
In this special collab, Aotearoa Rugby Pod and South Africa's Behind the Ruck podcast debate the Greatest Rivalry Tour!Who will win, how will they win, who makes a combined team?Join Bryn, Ross and former Springboks Rudy Paige and Juan de Jongh as they banter about the tour to come!And please give the BTR a follow!Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See
BOKS WATCH: Depth Creates Brutal Selection Calls
In this week's Boks Watch, Ross and Jip take a look at the Boks squad.We focus on the tough calls Rassie will have to make, considering their outrageous depth that has grown. Will some massive stars miss the 23 for the first Greatest Rivalry test?They also deep dive into the success of the flyhallf options, digging into their success against the major nations - New Zealand, France and Ireland.Catc
Why the All Blacks Turned to Their Past to Win in South Africa
All Blacks assistant coach and selector Neil Barnes joins the Aotearoa Rugby Pod to explain how New Zealand will manage an unusually demanding tour of South Africa.Barnes discusses the challenge of preparing separate teams for Test and midweek matches, why every player will remain in contention for the top side and how the selectors constructed a squad capable of handling the physical demands of t
The All Blacks Squad Pick Everyone’s Debating | 44 men to tour South Africa
Dave Rennie has named his latest All Blacks squad — and one selection is certain to divide opinion.Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa, Josh Jacomb and Siale Lauaki have earned their first call-ups, while Ethan Blackadder returns. But Du’Plessis Kirifi’s omission raises the biggest question: has Rennie found the right balance between form, specialist roles and the physical profile he wants?Ross Karl and James P
Boks Watch: How South Africa Dictates Play—and How to Stop It
The Greatest Rivalry is almost here—but are the All Blacks genuinely ready to beat the Springboks in South Africa?Ross Karl, James Parsons and Bryn Hall compare the two sides after the July internationals and ask whether the contest is now as close as 50–50. They examine South Africa’s remarkable depth, the return of New Zealand’s attacking DNA and the tactical areas that could decide the series.C
SHORT: Picking the All Blacks’ XV for South Africa Just Got Brutal
Picking the All Blacks’ match-day 23 for South Africa just got seriously difficult.In this excerpt from the podcast, the panel examines Tupou Vaa’i’s impact at blindside flanker, the fight for places in the loose forwards and whether a 6–2 bench could help New Zealand match the Springboks’ physicality.They also assess the All Blacks’ depth across the field, the growing reliance on Cam Roigard and
The All Blacks Have Changed — Will It Work in South Africa?
Unbeaten in the Nations Championship, the All Blacks and Springboks are now on a collision course for the Greatest Rivalry Tour.Aotearoa Rugby Pod unpacks the All Blacks’ impressive 40-21 victory over Ireland and the attacking identity emerging under Dave Rennie. What does “continuity plus brutality” mean, why has New Zealand’s ball retention improved, and can its high-tempo approach succeed in So
REACTION: All Blacks team naming v Ireland on Youtube Live
Audio of ARP's Youtube Live after Dave Rennie's press conference for his team naming v Ireland.Please excuse the audio. We'll upgrade our home microphones soon.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The All Blacks’ Menace | Tupou Vaa’i on Sledging, Irish trick plays and Rennie's Fitness Demands
All Blacks lock Tupou Vaa’i joins the Aotearoa Rugby Pod ahead of the clash with Ireland at Eden Park.Tupou opens up about becoming one of the All Blacks’ biggest on-field menaces and how Brodie Retallick inspired it.He also explains why there is “no hiding anymore” in the new All Blacks regime and how Ireland hooker Dan Sheehan inspired one of his Super Rugby tries.Catch all our content across @a
BOKS WATCH: Rusty But Their Depth Is Frightening
In our weekly Boks Watch segment, as we gear up for the Greatest Rivalry Tour:The Springboks were scratchy but the depth of talent coming through should worry the rest of world rugby..Did Scotland also uncover genuine flaws in the Boks’ defensive system or were they able to exploit a few moments of poor execution?Plus, we break down Boan Venter’s ridiculous strong-man carry and ask how anyone was
Jordan vs Kolbe | Who Is Rugby’s Best Right Winger?
Is Will Jordan already rugby’s greatest-ever right winger?With 50 tries from his first 56 tests, the All Blacks finisher is producing unprecedented numbers. We compare Jordan with New Zealand greats John Kirwan, Jeff Wilson and Doug Howlett, along with modern stars Cheslin Kolbe and Damian Penaud.We also break down the latest Nations Championship, including the struggles of the All Blacks and Spri
REACTION: All Blacks team naming Youtube Live
Listen to second of our weekly All Blacks team naming reaction Youtube Lives.This week it's Ross talking the All Blacks v Italy team, including the midfield switch-up and two debutants, as well as answering the questions from the Live comments section.Keep an eye out for the scheduled lives each week.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/pri
BOKS WATCH: Is Willemse the world's best?
With the Greatest Rivalry Tour coming in August, ARP brings you Boks watch, a regular segment dedicating to understanding the All Blacks' greatest foe!This week we talk where England went wrong, whether anyone is better than Damian Willemse, Rassie Erasmus' effect on the maul laws and how halfbacks are running the game worldwide.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hoste
All Blacks Attack Is Back | Rennie's Blueprint to Beat the Boks?
The All Blacks have their attacking identity back.Dave Rennie's first Test in charge delivered a clear shift in philosophy against France. New Zealand played with more tempo, kept the ball alive and attacked with an optimism that supporters have been craving.Is this the blueprint to beat the Springboks?We also wrap up all the biggest talking points from the opening weekend of the All Nations Champ
SHORT: How to use Beauden Barrett and Quinn Tupaea?
What is the best way for the All Blacks to use Beauden Barrett and Quinn Tupaea?This week we're answering two of the biggest viewer questions following the first Test squad selection.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tana Umaga On How Ardie Inspires & Building Rennie’s All Blacks
Tana Umaga On How Ardie Inspires & Building Rennie’s All BlacksAll Blacks legend Tana Umaga joins the Aotearoa Rugby Pod after returning to the national team as defence coach.Tana explains what makes Ardie Savea such an influential leader and how he inspires those around him during the toughest moments. He also takes us behind the scenes of Dave Rennie’s first camp, di
Inside France & Rennie's All Blacks | What Decides The Test
Few in New Zealand know all the French players and Dave Rennie as well as Brad Weber.Aotearoa Rugby Pod brings in the former All Blacks, Stade Francais and Chiefs halfback to give us the lowdown on both teams before Saturday's first test!.He explains how French rugby thinks, why Bordeaux's systems are likely to shape France's attack this week, and whether the absence of Toulouse's stars—including
SHORT: Springboks Run Riot: The Potential Is Scary
Yes, it was only the Barbarians.But the performance reinforced a feeling many rugby fans already have: the Springboks' depth of talent is becoming frightening.Ross Karl, Bryn Hall and James Parsons discuss South Africa's 80-31 win over the Barbarians.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
All Blacks Squad Revealed: Why Rennie Picked These Players
Fresh off the press - the ARP crew breaks down Dave Rennie's first All Blacks squad!The 34 man squad, captained by Ardie Savea, includes four new caps, one eyebrow raising inclusion at halfback and the return of a veteran from Japan.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Will The Final Pick The All Blacks?
The Hurricanes didn't just beat the Chiefs in the Super Rugby Pacific final — they dismantled them.Ross Karl, James Parsons and Bryn Hall break down why the Hurricanes tore apart the Chiefs and why the visitors couldn't find a way back into the contest.Have the Canes changed the All Blacks selection conversation? Does their style offer a blueprint for the All Blacks?Plus, reaction to South Africa'
SELECTION SURPRISES: Lakai, Blackadder & The Loose Forward Debate
Ardie Savea and Wallace Sititi are surely a lock when the All Blacks are named next week. But, our deep dive into the loose forward stats reveal a couple of surprises could be come Monday.Using ARP's Super Rugby Form Statistics Index, which feeds into our Test Selection Index, we assessed every major contender for Dave Rennie's side.Some names will surprise you.Catch all our content across @aotear
Hurricanes v Chiefs: What Decides The Final?
Two different styles. One showdown for the Super Rugby title.The Hurricanes have lit up Super Rugby with their width and strike power. The Chiefs have built their season on territory, set-piece and ruthless counter-attack.In this episode, we break down the their philosophies, stats and key match-ups.Plus, don't miss two signed jersey giveaways and a chance to watch the final with us at Sky City.Ca
Billy Proctor interview: Why the Canes Are On Fire 🔥🌪️
Why do the Hurricanes click?Hurricanes centre Billy Proctor joins the Aotearoa Rugby Pod ahead of the team's Super Rugby semifinal against the Blues to explain the foundations of their success.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Bryn Reveals How Kubota Scouted Dave Rennie's tactics
Bryn Hall reveals how Kubota Spears prepared for the Japan Rugby League One final against Dave Rennie's Kobe Steelers.From opposition analysis and tactical trends to identifying weaknesses, Bryn explains the detail that goes into building a game plan against one of rugby's most respected coaches.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy
Who Replaces Scott Barrett? Jamie Hannah's All Blacks Opportunity
Who replaces Scott Barrett?That's the question dominating this week's ARP.With Barrett and Fabian Holland injured, the race for All Blacks locking spots is wide open. Jamie Hannah has emerged as a genuine contender and Sam Darry is pushing hard. Ross Karl, James Parsons and Bryn Hall debate who should be in Dave Rennie's squad and whether the lock hierarchy has shifted.The team also previews the S
SHORT: Lomax, De Groot... Then Who? All Blacks prop debate
The All Blacks front row suddenly isn't as straightforward as it looked a month ago.Fletcher Newell's injury and Tamaiti Williams' absence have opened the door for a new wave of contenders.Tyrel Lomax and Ethan de Groot are sure things, Aotearoa Rugby Pod assess the leading candidates, including top and comers like Xavier Numia.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hoste
Anton Segner interview: Behind His Rise Towards The All Blacks
Anton Segner joins the Aotearoa Rugby Pod for an in-depth conversation about transforming from a prospect into one of Super Rugby's most influential loose forwards.The Blues flanker discusses bulking up, earning a starting role, his relentless drive for improvement, lessons from Richie McCaw and Kieran Read, his friendship with Crusaders star Leicester Fainga'anuku and the challenge awaiting the B
Crusaders Rising, Hurricanes stumbling? Super Rugby Finals Preview
The Super Rugby Pacific playoffs have arrived, amidst final round chaos.The Hurricanes are top qualifiers despite a heavy loss to the Crusaders, the Chiefs are confident after dismantling the Blues, and the Brumbies are under pressure from a shock defeat to Moana Pasifika. ARP's Ross Karl, James Parsons and Bryn Hall look at who will win and why.We also get into who should be the All Blacks p
SHORT: Who gets the last home playoff? | Blues, Crusaders or Brumbies?
The final round of Super Rugby Pacific has plenty to play for.The Hurricanes and Chiefs have secured home finals, but the battle between the Blues, Crusaders and Brumbies for the remaining home playoff spot will help define the finals series. The Aotearoa Rugby Pod crew breakdown how it could play out.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.c
Anton Segner for the All Blacks?
Anton Segner is making a serious push for the All Blacks.The Blues openside has emerged as one of Super Rugby Pacific’s form loose forwards, combining breakdown menace, defensive work-rate and strong carrying to put himself firmly in Dave Rennie’s selection frame. Aotearoa Rugby Pod debates whether Segner deserves an All Blacks call-up, alongside Ardie Savea, and whether his all-round game no
The Forgotten All Black Making A Serious Push
David Havili is back in the All Blacks conversation.Dropped by Scott Robertson in 2024 and largely forgotten in the midfield debate, the Crusaders captain reminded everyone of his quality with a match-winning display against the Chiefs.The Aotearoa Rugby Pod asks whether the 30-test veteran could force his way back into national selection this season.The crew also dives into:Super Rugby Pacif
SHORT: The Selection Rule Defining Rennie’s All Blacks
What is B.I.G.G.A — and why does Dave Rennie value it so highly?Bryn Hall and James Parsons explain “Back In Game, Go Again,” a Dave Rennie work-rate metric that shapes his selections.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
SHORT: Who Can Stop The Canes Right Now?
Their attack is electric, their defence has tightened, and they’re winning games in multiple ways.So the big question is: who can actually stop the Hurricanes, now they most likely have home advantage through the playoffs?There appears to be one major contender and one dark horse.The ARP crew also breaks down the top six contenders with two rounds to go until the playoffs.Catch all our content acr
Should Mo’unga Walk Straight Back Into The All Blacks?
The Aotearoa Rugby Pod team debates whether Richie Mo'unga should return from Japan and immediately into the All Blacks.Would changing overseas eligibility policies strengthen New Zealand rugby or undermine the system?The crew also unpack B.I.G.G.A, the Dave Rennie work-rate metric and how it could shape future All Blacks selections. Could it make Lucas Casey a great option?Plus, the&nbs
Ruahei Demant on Bristol, Whitney Hansen & the Blues’ loaded Aupiki squad
Black Ferns and Blues co-captain Ruahei Demant has experienced the other side! A sabbatical to English club Bristol has taught her plenty about rugby in the home of the World Cup champions. She has returned home with new knowledge and a desire to use it to help the Blues defend their Aupiki title.She chats with Aotearoa Rugby Pod about... What she learnt playing for Bristol Bears Wo
SHORT: Why NZ Fell Short Of Boks At U20s
Why didn’t New Zealand win the Under 20 Rugby Championship — and why did the Baby Boks look so dominant throughout the tournament?The Aotearoa Rugby Pod breaks down how South Africa built such a powerful U20 side and discusses NZ prioritising different goals at age-grade level.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more
Does Jordie Shift To 15? All Blacks’ Midfield Squeeze
The All Blacks are stacked with midfield options.Quinn Tupaea is in outstanding form, Billy Proctor is excelling, Timoci Tavatavanawai's becoming impossible to ignore and Leicester Fainga’anuku's causing havoc wherever he plays.So does Jordie Barrett have to shift from 12 back to fullback?The Aotearoa Rugby Pod debates the balance of the All Blacks backline, incl
SHORT: Super Rugby's most frustrating team?
The Highlanders keep finding themselves in the fight against top Super Rugby sides — but too often they leave with nothing to show for it.So why does the same story keep repeating for Jamie Joseph's men?The Aotearoa Rugby Pod breaks down why the Highlanders are competitive for long stretches, yet continue to lose tight games. Right now, the Highlanders might be Super Rugby’s most frustra
SHORT: All Blacks Back 3 SOLVED? Clarke, Tangitau & Jordan
The All Blacks back three is a big debate heading into the international season.Aotearoa Rugby Pod dives into why Caleb Clarke, Caleb Tangitau and Will Jordan could be the most balanced option — combining power, speed and elite game awareness.Catch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
ABs Selection Heats Up: Scott Barrett, Proctor and Hotham Under the Microscope
The All Blacks selection picture is tightening and some big calls will need to be made.This episode of the Aotearoa Rugby Pod focuses on the key positional battles at halfback, centre and lock, with Scott Barrett, Noah Hotham and Billy Proctor in the spotlight. The team also breaks down Super Rugby Pacific Round 12, identifying the performances and trends shaping national selection, befo
What Every Sports Parent Should Know | NZ Under 20s coach Kane Jury on Youth Development
This isn’t just about rugby — it’s about raising better young people.New Zealand Under 20s and pathways coach Kane Jury joins the Aotearoa Rugby Pod to explain how NZ develops its young athletes — and why parents and coaches play such a critical role in that journey.From preparing for the Rugby Championship and World Championship to teaching life skills off the field, Jury shares why suc
Fainga’anuku at 7? Hype or Hit? Could the All Blacks follow the Boks blueprint?
Leicester Fainga’anuku’s man of the match performance for the Crusaders at open side has everyone talking. But is it the best way to use the hybrid centre/winger?He’s an elite player but will it work for the Crusaders against elite Super Rugby opposition, never mind the All Blacks versus the Springboks?This is less about the player, and more about whether the role stacks up under pressure.We also
SHORT: Two Future All Blacks? Tangitau & Segner
Caleb Tangitau and Anton Segner are two names building serious hype.We break down their form and skillsets, then break down the problems with the Blues defence and the Crusaders.👇 Let us know: Who’s the next All Black you’re watching? Email: ARP@Fandommedia.co.nz🎧 Listen to the full episode on Spotify & AppleCatch all our content across @aotearoarugbypodofficial channels Hosted on Acast. See a
Rugby’s Next Step — And How Fans Can Shape It
Rugby is evolving — on the field, in the stadium and how fans experience the game.In this Aotearoa Rugby Pod interview, Super Rugby CEO Jack Mesley explains how the sport is taking its next step — from faster, more engaging play to a match day experience that goes beyond the 80 minutes.We get into:Evolution of the on-field product The shift towards a bigger in-stadium experienceWhy rugby
Why Moana Pasifika’s Future Affects Every Team in Super Rugby
Moana Pasifika is searching for new financial backing — and it could have major implications for Super Rugby.If they can’t secure support, what does that mean for the number of teams, the competition format, and the future of Pacific rugby in the professional game?The Aotearoa Rugby Pod breaks down why this moment matters, and why the ripple effects could be felt across the entire competition.Late
Jason Holland: All Blacks lessons behind the Hurricanes attack
Since leaving the All Blacks, Jason Holland has helped shape Super Rugby's most potent attack at the Hurricanes.In this Aotearoa Rugby Pod interview, Holland breaks down:The key principles behind the Hurricanes’ attacking successThe lessons he took from the All Blacks environmentWhy clarity and simplicity are central to performanceAnd how those ideas will carry into his role as Blues head coach📺 S
SHORT: Leinster is starting to unlock the best of Rieko Ioane
Leinster is starting to get the best out of Rieko Ioane’ — at centre or wing.After some early noise around his arrival — from the Johnny Sexton spat to adjustmenting to a new system — it’s starting to click.In recent performances against Edinburgh and Sale, Ioane has made a real impact — bringing speed, power, footwork and distribution that can break games open.The Aotearoa Rugby Pod breaks down I
How isn’t this a HEADBUTT?! Rugby fans are confused
Did Highlander Henry Bell get headbutted by Nick Frost … and still get penalised?A controversial Super Rugby moment has rugby fans split, after the tackler saw yellow and it's not the first time!So was this the right call — or does rugby has a problem?The Aotearoa Rugby Pod breaks it down, as well as asking if the Canes can be stopped and whether Damian McKenzie is in the Chiefs' top five players
SHORT: Why the All Blacks’ South Africa Tour Could Be Brutal
In August, the All Blacks heading back into one of rugby’s toughest challenges - a full tour of South Africa.But this isn’t just about Test matches, for the first time in decades, New Zealand will face the unique grind of touring:Midweek matchesTravel and squad rotationAdapting to South African conditionsManaging physical and mental fatigueSo do the modern All Blacks actually have the know-how to
SHORT: Is Codie Taylor the next All Blacks Captain?
Could Codie Taylor be the next All Blacks captain?We deep dive into what makes Taylor such a great player, leader and team mate, then ask whether he's the man for the jobIt’s one of the biggest off-field questions in New Zealand rugby right now — and we want your take. Email us on ARP@Fandommedia.co.nz📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube#AllBlacks #CodieTaylor #RugbyPodcast #NZRugby #CaptaincyDebate #
The Fainga’anuku debate: Where Does He Fit for the All Blacks?
Where should Leicester Fainga’anuku fit in the All Blacks?It’s one of the most fascinating selection questions right now — and there’s no obvious answer.We also dive into your suggestions for All Blacks bolters/moneyball players from last week's episode, plus talk Samipeni Finau's epic showing for the Chiefs.📺 Full episodes and clips on YouTube, where you can enter the draw for six seats for the B
