DSPN - Devlin Sports Podcast Network
DSPN is a New Zealand rugby podcast and channel hosted by Martin Devlin, covering the biggest stories in the game. From the All Blacks and Super Rugby to provincial rugby, major interviews, breaking news, and sharp commentary, DSPN delivers strong opinions, smart analysis, and proper rugby discussion for New Zealand fans.
Episodes
Chiefs smash Crusaders to book Super Rugby final spot | Jamie Wall in Hamilton
The Chiefs are into another Super Rugby final after a massive semi-final win over the Crusaders in Hamilton.
Jamie Wall was there for DSPN as the Chiefs produced a stunning first half, putting 40-plus points on the Crusaders and defending with serious grit after the break. Jono Gibbes praised his side’s problem-solving under pressure, while Tupou Vaa’i called the performance “bloody awesome” afte
Should The All Blacks Copy Ireland?
We are digging straight into the million-dollar question regarding the health of global rugby pathways. Irish rugby journalist Caolán Scully joins Jamie to explode the myths surrounding Ireland's central contracting model. We track the financial squeeze forcing James Lowe to Japan, rate Clayton McMillan’s tough debut season at Munster, and explain why the All Blacks hold the ultimate psychological
Are the Chiefs CURSED? | Chiefs v Crusaders SEMI-FINAL Preview
We are diving straight into the high stakes Super Rugby semifinals. Nigel Yalden joins the studio to break down whether Jono Gibbes has the European experience to push the Chiefs past their final hurdle hurdle. We analyze Damian McKenzie shaking off his head knock, audit the All Black bolter credentials of Isaac Hutchinson, and explain why Friday night's clash with the Crusaders is pure appointmen
THE BOLTERS WHO COULD BEAT SOUTH AFRICA | All Blacks Roundtable
The Rugby Roundtable is completely locked in for a brutal semifinal weekend. Mark and John join the desk to unveil our 2026 All Black bolters and debate whether Brad Shields deserves the midweek captaincy in South Africa. We pull the rip cord on the absolute collapse of the Blues, expose the structural flaws in the current playoff system, and break down Tony Brown’s massive early appointment.
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Aussie Rugby Roundtable: Sean Maloney & Brett McKay’s Brutal Reality Check
The Super Rugby semifinals are here, but unfortunately, every single Australian team is watching from the couch. Australian Rugby Commentator Sean Maloney and Brett McKay of the 8/9 Rugby Podcast join the show for a brutal, no-nonsense reality check on the state of the game across the Tasman. We break down the structural failures of the competition, lineout crises, and the massive international se
Should Refs Stop Warning Players & Just Penalize? | Reading Your Comments
Martin and Jamie dive into a massive qualifying finals mailbag to address the feedback surrounding Super Rugby CEO Jack Mesley's appearance. We look at the verified data showing double-digit crowd growth across New Zealand stadiums, break down why the All Blacks still outrate the Warriors on Sky, and analyze how to manage Ardie Savea's massive workload.
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'Final's Footy Is Where We Truly Come Alive' | Leicester Faingaʻanuku Interview
We're checking in with one of the real standout stars of the Crusaders as the team heads into a massive knockout clash at Te Kaha. Leicester Faingaʻanuku joins the show to chat about his radical positional shift into the loose forward pack. We look at his stint up north in France, the mental challenge of juggling two completely different positions, and what it takes to stop a dangerous Blues outfi
How are the Aussies feelings going into the Qualifying Finals | Les Kiss & Ben Mowen
We are officially strapped in for the Super Rugby qualifying finals. Martin Devlin sits down for a couple of massive, back-to-back exclusive interviews with Queensland Reds head coach Les Kiss and Brumbies assistant coach Ben Mowen. We talk mental warfare, handling iffy weather, and why the regular season counts for absolutely zero once the do-or-die footy kicks off.
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Reds coach Le
Can The Hurricanes Shut Down The Brumbies In Wellington? | Cory Jane
Hurricanes assistant coach Cory Jane joins the show ahead of their massive sudden-death quarter-final against the Brumbies in Wellington. We tackle the fallout from the heavy Crusaders loss, why the squad is ignoring the favorites tag, and how a brutal preseason strategy built around their 22-meter defense is paying off. Plus, we hear why Ruben Love is tracking toward a world-class future.
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Super Rugby Qualifying Finals Preview: Is There An Upset Coming?
It’s qualifying finals time! Martin and Jamie break down the stats and structures for the massive three-match schedule. We look at the top-form Hurricanes locking down key talent, the massive front-row injury headache threatening the Crusaders’ fortress, and a historic 1990s punch-up.
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Chiefs Seuseu Naitoa Ah Kuoi during the Chiefs v Blues, Super Rugby Pacific match, FMG Stadium Wa
'Some people DON'T like FACTS' | Super Rugby CEO reveals TRUTH about Audience Numbers
Let’s be honest, people love to paint a negative picture about crowd sizes, but the numbers tell a very different story. Martin sits down for an exclusive chat with Super Rugby CEO Jack Mesley as the competition heads into the finals. We dive into the double-digit attendance growth across New Zealand, how the game outrates the Warriors on Sky, and the ongoing government funding battles for Super R
Who WE think belongs in the All Blacks | Rugby Roundtable
It's Roundtable time on DSPN, and we are laying down the 34 names for our All Blacks side. Martin, John Day, and Mark Watson don't fanny around with these three tests, debating the 19-15 forward split and why Dave Rennie needs to see this team under load before facing South Africa. We break down the front row anchors, settle the loose forward mix, and explain why a stint in the northern hemisphere
Why Referees Need to Stop the Warnings | Jeff the Ref
Martin Devlin and resident rule expert Jeff the Ref sit down with a glass of water—or vodka—to dismantle the most glaring officiating moments from the weekend. We call out the complete lack of forward pass calls from assistant referees after 16 rounds of Super Rugby. Plus, we look at reckless head-on-head contact and why warnings need to be completely banned heading into the qualifying finals.
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Super Rugby Sudden-Death: Who survives The Quarter-Finals?
Sky Sport's Tony Johnson joins Marty to break down the three massive qualifying finals this weekend. We tackle the Hurricanes’ strategic "rest vs rust" choices against the Crusaders, break down the Brumbies' horribly inconsistent form since their 50-point statement win, and look into the breaking rumors of a potential lifeline for Moana Pasifika.
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Blues Eli Oudenryn during the Chie
Do Schoolboy Steroid Gains Last Into Professional Rugby? | Mailbag
It’s mailbag time and we are ripping into your hottest takes. We address the terrifying culture of schoolboy steroid use in South Africa and whether those artificial gains actually stick around in adulthood. Plus, we debate the real cost of losing South African franchises, the looming dread of Scott Barrett’s massive injury layout, and a radical hybrid bench strategy that could transform the All B
Should Rugby League Adopt the 20-Minute Red Card
Martin and Jamie back up after a chaotic 24 hours to preview a high-stakes Round 16. We delve into the Ashley Klein Origin red card controversy and explain why it’s a massive advertisement for rugby’s 20-minute red card rule. Plus, we break down the hammer blows hitting Christchurch with Scott Barrett out for surgery, Will Jordan’s recurring calf nightmare, and the departure of Rob Penney.
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"Lost Up Its Own Backside" | Duncan Garner on the DEMISE of Rugby
Editor-in-Chief host Duncan Garner joins Martin Devlin and Jamie Wall on the DSPN today! We're tearing into Duncan’s controversial Listener piece claiming New Zealand rugby is officially broken. From the 40 schoolboys pinched by the Warriors program to the empty stadium seats at marquee games, we sit down for a brutal, honest look at our national sport.
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High Degree of Danger! Why Are Red Card Upgrades Taking Seven Minutes?
Our resident whistle-blower Jeff McGregor returns for another edition of Jeff The Ref ahead of international referee Ben O'Keeffe rolling into the studio. We’re drilling into the controversial refereeing moments from the weekend, including the bizarre Hurricanes quick-tap, and why grassroots sideline behavior has reached an all-time low.
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Angus Gardner during the Hurricanes v Hi
McKenzie, Roigard, or Jordan? Who's The MOST Crucial Injury Loss
The Rugby Roundtable is back to tackle the state of the game as the round robin wraps up. Mark Watson and John Day join the show to break down the emergence of new young talent like Lucas Casey and Anton Segner, while sounding the alarm on the worrying decline of the competition. We talk private equity, slashing franchises, and the massive injury blows defining the playoffs.
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Hurricanes "Haven't Missed A Beat" | SIX Super Rugby Hot Takes
One round to go in the Super Rugby round-robin and the playoff picture is absolute chaos. Martin and Jamie dive straight into the numbers, breaking down the Hurricanes’ record-breaking run of 50-plus point games and their insane 11 bonus points. We look at the genius coaching innovation behind Leicester Faingaʻanuku playing at seven, whether Sevu Reece has just played his way back into the All Bla
The Super Rugby Finals Jigsaw: Who Faces Who In The Quarterfinals?
Tony Johnson joins Martin straight after calling an absolute crackerjack of a match between the Crusaders and Chiefs. We break down the incredible atmosphere in Christchurch's new stadium, look at the brutal calf injury concerns for Will Jordan, and question why Dave Rennie sees Leicester Leicester Faingaʻanuku as a winger when he’s currently playing flanker. Plus, we address the excruciating disa
Super Rugby NOT Worth Watching? | Mailbag
It’s Friday and the mailbag is completely overflowing. Martin and Jamie dive headfirst into your best comments from the week, tackling everything from the real physics behind that forward pass drama to why the All Blacks rely so heavily on veteran experience for a massive tour to South Africa. Plus, we uncover some mind-blowing tackle stats comparing Super Rugby to the URC and officially validate
Selecting 15 to Play Stormers | All Blacks South Africa Tour Squad
Selecting an All Blacks side always gets people talking, but picking a midweek touring squad for South Africa is a whole different beast. Rugby journalism veteran Nigel Yalden joins Martin Devlin and Jamie Wall to lock in a 15 to face the Stormers. We debate everything from the Richie Mo'unga eligibility drama to the wide-open race for the number six and thirteen jerseys.
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Are the Springboks DRUG cheats? | Brenden Nel Hits Back
South African Rugby Journalist Brenden Nel joins us to hit back at the inflammatory headlines targeting the back-to-back world champions. From uncovering the true operational logistics behind South Africa's drug testing reduction to breaking down the tragic weights-loss cocktail that sidelined Asenathi Ntlabakanye, Brenden plays open cards on the actual facts.
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'No Regrets' | Brad Shields on playing overseas and the Hurricanes stellar season
Brad Shields joins the DSPN studio to talk about the Hurricanes’ flying season, his incredible global rugby journey, and what it’s really like to navigate life-changing overseas contracts. We dive deep into the brutal physical load of modern Super Rugby, the changing dynamics of team culture, and whether the All Black jersey remains the ultimate motivation for young Kiwi stars.
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'Magic Round was WAY better' | Unpacking the Magic vs Super Round Debate
We tackle a packed (extra) mailbag following our recent Roundtable debate about Magic Round vs Super Round. Are Warriors fans getting a bit too ahead of themselves, or is the NRL genuinely leaving Super Rugby in the dust? We break down the real TV viewing figures from Sky, look at why Eden Park never looks full, and explain why the All Blacks still sit on a completely different level.
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Are Super Rugby Laws Protecting Dangerous High Tackles? | Jeff the Ref
Our resident whistle-blower Jeff McGregor joins us live from Manila for another unfiltered edition of Jeff the Ref. We break down the absolute head-scratchers from the weekend, including Ben O’Keeffe’s early "freebie" warning, the highly controversial forward pass that gave Fehi Fineanganofo his record-equalling try, and why the current tackle laws are rewarding dangerous play through pure luck of
Magic Round vs Super Round: Who did it better? | Rugby Roundtable
The numbers from the NRL's Magic Round are undeniable, but do they tell the full story? We look beyond the scoreboard to break down the massive divide between Rugby League's organic tribalism and the corporate, polished script of Super Rugby. From the Warriors taking over Brisbane to the cavernous reality of our local grounds, we ask if rugby has simply treated fans with disdain for too long.
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Six HOT TAKES from Super Rugby Round 14 | DSPN
Martin Devlin and Jamie Wall go rapid-fire through six hot takes from the rugby weekend. We break down why the Blues’ shellacking at Eden Park proves they aren't championship material, the heartbreaking Achilles injury to Caleb Tangitau, and why Australian rugby teams are a complete puzzle. Plus, we look at the hype around Zach Lomax and slam a ridiculous bonus point rule in the Northern Hemispher
The Blues Are Found Out! Tony Johnson Breaks Down the Eden Park Shellacking
Sky Sport's Tony Johnson joins Martin Devlin to dissect a seismic Round 14. We drop the analytical hammer on the Blues' defensive collapse and credit the Hurricanes' high-IQ tactical masterclass at Eden Park. Plus, we look at Damian McKenzie's brutal injury protocols, debate the staggering $2,400 cost for a World Cup final seat, and pay tribute to Scottish rugby legend Scott Hastings.
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Why the Anzac Test Should Be the Bledisloe Cup | Mailbag
From titanium plates in jaws to the "river of piss" at Athletic Park, we’re diving into the brutal, messy, and honest side of rugby. We address your feedback on Gilbert Enoka’s return, the ongoing Richie Mo'unga eligibility saga, and why New Zealanders need to stop being so insular about the Northern Hemisphere game. Plus, a radical idea for the Bledisloe Cup.
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Gilbert Enoka on Dave Rennie, Leadership, and the All Black Legacy
The man behind the All Blacks' mental fortitude for over two decades is back. Gilbert Enoka joins us to discuss his return to the management team under Dave Rennie and why leadership is about who you are, not where you sit. We dive into the "No Dickheads" policy, the challenge of winning versus losing environments, and how the All Black jersey remains the ultimate multiplier for talent.
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"Archaic & Ridiculous": Watto Tears Into NZR Over Richie Mo'unga
The Mo'unga debate isn't going away. We dive into the "wide gulf" between Dave Rennie’s plans and New Zealand Rugby’s eligibility rules. Is it time to "push the eject button" on archaic paperwork and pick our best 23 for the most important series in 50 years? Plus, we break down Sir Graham Henry’s return and why Rennie is hunting for "brutality" over Instagram highlights.
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Is Super Rugby Dying? Bernard Jackman’s Honest Take from Ireland
We welcome Irish rugby royalty Bernard Jackman to the show for a proper deep dive into the state of the game. From Rieko Ioane’s positional shift at Leinster to why Super Rugby is falling off the radar in the North, we cover it all. Bernard gives us the inside word on Andy Farrell’s impact and what the All Blacks can expect when Ireland heads south.
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Highlanders Timoci Tavatavan
Was That a Try? Breaking Down the Reds-Chiefs Chaos | Jeff the Ref
Jeff McGregor from Web Wonks joins Martin to dissect a controversial weekend of Super Rugby officiating. We’re talking Marcus Playle’s "shocking" night in Brisbane, the Reds’ post-match fury, and why Angus Gardner is setting the standard for referees.
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Chiefs George Dyer in action during the Reds v Chiefs, Super Rugby Pacific match, Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane, Australia. Friday, 8
Graham Henry is BACK! | Breaking Down the All Blacks Presser
The All Blacks management group opened the doors at NZR HQ, and we were there to see what the Dave Rennie era actually looks like. From the shock return of Sir Graham Henry as a selector to the "conundrum" of Richie Mo’unga’s eligibility, there is plenty to unpack. Martin and Jamie break down the injury concerns, the midfield puzzle, and why Brodie Retallick won't be heading to South Africa.
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The New Names Dave Rennie CAN'T Ignore | Tony Johnson
Leicester Fainga'anuku’s move to flanker has gone from a "roll of the dice" to a genuine tactical revolution. We break down the Crusaders' dominant defensive win over the Blues and discuss why Leicester's hybrid skills make him the ultimate All Black weapon. Plus, we audit the refereeing controversies from Brisbane to Dunedin and look at the Under-20s' gritty draw in South Africa.
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Will Winning Super Rugby Get Ruben Love an All Blacks Jersey?
We dive back into the mailbag to tackle the biggest calls in Kiwi sport. Martin and Jamie break down the Ruben Love hype, the "boring" winning culture of Auckland rugby, and why everyone needs to calm down about the All Blacks. Plus, we look at the logistics of Super Round and whether Steve Hansen should start narrating bedtime stories for anxious fans.
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Will Cam Roigard’s Injury Derail the Hurricanes' Season? | DSPN
Jamie Wall joins the starting lineup full-time as we tackle a massive Round 13 in Super Rugby. We’re looking at the fallout of Cam Roigard’s "significant" injury and whether the Hurricanes have the depth to stay top. Plus, the horses are returning to Christchurch for a sell-out clash against the Blues. We ask if home euphoria is enough to save the Crusaders' season or if the Blues will shut down t
Can Dave Rennie Bring Back the Innovation We've Lost? | Daryl Gibson
Crusaders and All Blacks great Daryl Gibson joins us to celebrate the opening of Christchurch’s new roofed stadium. We dive deep into the state of Super Rugby, why Daryl finds himself watching the Top 14 for excitement, and his bold plan for a "relaxation" of the overseas selection rules. Plus, we talk All Black identity—can the team move away from "copying other nations" and return to the innovat
Is Super Rugby Failing The All Blacks? Jamie Salmon give his Two Cents
Rugby legend and dual All Black/England international Jamie Salmon joins Martin to break down the widening gap between the two hemispheres. We dig into why the Top 14 is becoming the world’s powerhouse, the "Erasmus model" for player selection, and whether Super Rugby still prepares Kiwis for the brutality of Test matches. Plus, a look ahead to the ultimate litmus test: the All Blacks' upcoming to
Do the Refs Actually Know the Laws? Breaking Down Super Rugby Round 12
Martin Devlin and "Jeff the Ref" tackle a weekend of absolute chaos on the grass. We break down the shockers from the Hurricanes and Crusaders clash, from forward passes that weren't called to officials who seemingly forgot the 2026 lineout laws. Plus, Jeff opens up about the dangerous trap of "balancing the ledger" and why coward hits on try-scorers need to go.
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Rugby in Crisis? Why 11 Top NZ Players are Quitting Super Rugby
The trickle has become a river. Martin Devlin, John Day, and Mark Watson dive into the massive talent drain hitting New Zealand rugby, with 11 big names already signed away. We ask the hard questions: Has the All Black jersey lost its value? Should we start selecting from overseas? Plus, we tackle the "negative narrative" claims from NZ Rugby and why Super Rugby is struggling to keep us awake.
Crusaders Robbed? Round 12 Super Rugby Breakdown with Tony Johnson
We’re breaking down a massive Round 12 where the Crusaders might have every right to feel aggrieved over a shocker of a forward pass. Tony Johnson joins us to look at the Hurricanes’ grit, the Blues' second-half surges, and why the Brumbies’ defense has completely fallen off a cliff. We ask the big question: in a competition where anyone can beat anyone, who actually has what it takes for the play
The Hurricanes Are In Control... Or are they? | Marty's Sermon
Let’s be honest, we all saw it coming — or in the case of that Crusaders try, we all saw the forward pass that the TMO somehow missed. Martin breaks down six key takeaways from Super Rugby Round 12, from the Hurricanes sitting in the box seat to the "round robin of pain" ahead for the top Kiwi sides. We look at why the Waratahs are underdelivering again and if Auckland really has a shot at hosting
Super Rugby Is NOT Dead, Lachlan signs off | Mailbag
It’s an emotional final mailbag as we bid farewell to Lachlan Waugh before he heads off to Sky. We dive into the massive success of the Christchurch Super Round, debate whether Ardie Savea can captain the All Blacks from the bench, and tackle the "naff" state of halftime entertainment. Plus, we explore the retro jersey trend and why Athletic Park’s urinals are a smell you never forget.
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Sir Steve Hansen: How The All Blacks Can Topple Springboks In 2026
Sir Steve Hansen is back with Martin, and as always, there is no soft serve here. From Christchurch’s new stadium buzz to the All Blacks’ future, this is a proper state-of-the-game chat.
We get into Super Rugby standards, New Zealand’s player pathways, the lure of the All Blacks jersey, offshore eligibility, Dave Rennie’s coaching group, and why Hansen still believes this country has the talent t
Te Kaha Stadium: Inside Christchurch’s New Sporting Home
After 15 years of waiting, planning, debating and building, Christchurch finally has its new stadium, and Marty is right in the thick of it.
Martin Devlin talks with Chris Paterson and former Wallaby Al Baxter from Populous, the architecture firm behind Te Kaha, about what it takes to design a stadium that feels big, close, loud and properly special. They discuss the emotional weight of the pr
Super Rugby With Jeff The Ref: Head Contact, Spider Cam And A Wild Try
Ever watched a game and thought, “how on earth is that the rule?” Yeah, same. That’s where Jeff the Ref comes in.
This week, Jeff McGregor joins us to break down some of the biggest refereeing moments from Super Rugby, including head contact calls, obstruction, a spider cam intervention, and one of the strangest tries you’ll see all season.
We get into the grey areas around shoulder-first tackle
Rugby Roundtable: Crusaders' Resurgence, Super Round’s Future Location
Christchurch finally got its big rugby weekend, and fair play, it looked and felt like the sort of thing Super Rugby has been begging for. But should Super Round stay there, move around the country, or is Watto right to be the bloke grumbling about chips and long-term crowds?
This week on DSPN’s Rugby Roundtable, Martin is joined by Mark Watson and John Day to dig into the Super Round glow, the C
Tony Johnson: Crusaders Looming Large as Super Rugby Finals Approach
Now we get into the rugby. After the buzz of Christchurch, Tony Johnson sticks around to break down a massive Super Rugby round and what it means for the run home.
All five New Zealand teams got the job done, but the bigger story sits in the table. The Chiefs and Hurricanes are setting the pace, the Blues are right there, and the Crusaders are quietly climbing into a spot no one will want to deal
Tony Johnson on Super Round: A Big Win for Super Rugby and Christchurch
Super Rugby's Super Round absolutely delivered! After a cracking weekend in Christchurch, we’re back from Te Kaha Stadium with Tony Johnson to unpack why this one hit differently.
From the packed stands and city buzz to fans in colours from every corner of Super Rugby Pacific, there was a proper festival feel around the whole weekend. Tony and Martin talk through the timing, the new stadium, th
Dan Carter: All Blacks’ Depth, First-Five Battle And Super Round
At Super Rugby’s Super Round, Dan Carter joins Martin Devlin on the DSPN for a wide-ranging chat. He reflects on the city’s earthquake recovery, Crusaders history, and the buzz around the new stadium, while highlighting his work with UNICEF delivering clean water to Pacific communities. Carter also weighs in on the All Blacks’ No.10 depth, the challenge of locking down the jersey, and why New Zeal
Super Rugby Transfers, Union vs League, Lachlan Signs Off | Mailbag
This one starts in the Mailbag and ends with a proper farewell.
We get stuck into your feedback on Super Rugby, from whether the comp is actually sustainable to draft systems, salary caps, provincial pride, and why league keeps pinching hearts and minds.
There’s plenty on the Chiefs vs Hurricanes thriller too, including the Cam Roigard substitution, Ruben Love at 10, golden point, and whether a
Todd Blackadder: Crusaders' 2026 Form And Why Super Rugby Is Good
We caught up with Crusaders legend and ex All Blacks captain Todd Blackadder to talk about the brand new stadium in Christchurch - it is a massive moment for the city. We also get his honest take on the current state of Super Rugby, the Crusaders' season so far, and what he thinks about players moving between international competitions.
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Rugby Roundtable: Ardie Savea’s Next Move And All Blacks 10 Debate
Riley Higgins is off, Ardie Savea’s next move is suddenly a proper talking point, and we’re still no closer to a clean answer on the All Blacks No. 10 jersey.
This week on the DSPN’s Rugby Roundtable, we get into what Higgins leaving actually says about New Zealand Rugby, whether players should be free to move right across Super Rugby, and why Damian McKenzie might have pushed himself back to the
Jeff the Ref: Why Blues' Zarn Sullivan Should Have Been Red Carded
Some of rugby’s toughest calls went under the microscope this week, and we got Jeff the Ref in to break it all down properly.
We go through a stack of big moments from across Super Rugby, including the Zarn Sullivan tackle that had everyone split on red versus yellow, head-on-head collisions, forward pass debates, and whether the TMO is getting involved in the right situations.
There’s also a re
Murray Mexted: Chiefs vs Hurricanes, All Blacks Loosies, And NZ Rugby’s Future
Who should wear six, seven and eight for the All Blacks? We got Murray Mexted back on to do what he does best - get right into the guts of loose forward play and explain what actually matters when selectors start circling names.
We dig into Chiefs vs Hurricanes, the back row battle inside that game, and why Mex still believes the All Blacks trio will come from those two sides. He breaks down the
Tony Johnson: Chiefs Edge Canes, Drua Stun Brumbies, Black Ferns Click
That was one of those Super Rugby weekends where the table shifted, the pressure cranked up, and nobody got to hide.
We get into the Chiefs’ statement win over the Hurricanes in Hamilton, why Damian McKenzie’s influence mattered so much late, and what golden point does to the blood pressure. Then it’s on to the Drua pulling off one of the biggest away wins the comp’s seen, the Crusaders looking v
Super Rugby Vibe Rankings: There’s a New King as Chiefs Soar, Crusaders Fall
The Super Rugby Vibe Rankings are back and, honestly, it is absolute carnage. This week on DSPN, we try to make sense of a Super Rugby comp where the Chiefs have muscled their way to the top, the Hurricanes picked the wrong time to get loose, and half the ladder feels like it could beat the other half on any given day.
We get into why the Chiefs now deserve the flowers after closing out a huge wi
Chiefs Edge Hurricanes In THRILLER, Crusaders Lose Again | Super Rugby Review
This round had everything. A golden-point gut punch in Hamilton, the Drua pulling off a proper stunner in Canberra, and the Crusaders coughing up a 19-nil lead. Just a normal weekend in Super Rugby, obviously.
On this episode, Martin and Jamie rip through all the big Round 10 talking points, starting with whether the Hurricanes blew their shot against the Chiefs and what Damien McKenzie’s contr
Ruben Love’s ‘Time To Shine’ And Fixing All Blacks Eligibility | Mailbag
Ruben Love at 10? We’re done dancing around it. This week’s DSPN Mailbag gets stuck into the big one, with plenty of you making the case to just hand him the jersey and find out if he’s the real deal.
We also rip through overseas eligibility, whether New Zealand should loosen the rules with a few caveats attached, and if Super Rugby is actually enough to prepare players for test footy.
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Super Rugby In Crisis? Plus, All Blacks Loose Forward Debate | Rugby Roundtable
Super Rugby is back in the spotlight, and not always for the right reasons. We get stuck into what happens next for the competition after Moana Pasifika’s demise, whether the current model is actually working, and why there are still big questions around crowds, structure, and long-term sustainability.
From there, we shift into All Blacks selection and the big calls coming up. Ruben Love is putti
Jamie Wall: Why Moana Pasifika Failed And What Happens Next
Moana Pasifika is all but done, and we’re still trying to work out what that really means. We get Jamie Wall in to unpack the sadness around the club’s collapse, the funding model that was always under pressure, and the bigger picture for Pacific rugby.
We also get into what a 10-team Super Rugby comp looks like from here, why coaches keep heading offshore, and whether New Zealand rugby is just c
Graham Henry And Brent Impey: All Blacks' Future And Keeping Up With South Africa
What actually needs to change if the All Blacks want to stay at the top? That’s the big question in this one, and we get stuck into it with two men who know the game inside out, Sir Graham Henry and former NZ Rugby chair Brent Impey.
In a very special extended chat, we talk Super Rugby, offshore eligibility, player depth, club rugby, the financial squeeze on the game, and why Sir Graham believes
Jeff The Ref: Should Tip Tacklers in Rugby be Sin Binned?
Not every big hit is a good hit, and not every whistle needs to blow. This week on the DSPN, we get Jeff the Ref back in to work through some of the trickiest calls from the Super Rugby weekend.
We get into tip tackles, head clashes, yellow cards that maybe should not have been, and a few moments where the refs probably left everyone scratching their heads. Jeff also owns a correction from last w
Super Rugby Top Six ‘Locked In’ As Hurricanes DOMINATE | Vibe Rankings
The vibe rankings are back and things are starting to feel very real.
On the DSPN, Marty and Lachie break down where every Super Rugby team actually sits right now, and more importantly, who’s already out of the race. The Hurricanes are clear at the top, the Chiefs and Blues are chasing, and the big question becomes whether anyone can genuinely disrupt what’s starting to look like a locked-in top
Ant Strachan Breaks Down Hurricanes vs Blues and All Blacks Selection Race
The Hurricanes are humming, the Chiefs are waiting, and suddenly every big Super Rugby matchup feels like an All Blacks trial.
On the DSPN, Marty is joined by Ant Strachan to break down just how good the Hurricanes really are after putting away the Blues, why Cam Roigard is right at the top of his game, and what Ruben Love is doing to force his way into the test conversation. We also get into the
Tony Johnson: Hurricanes Cook Blues As Super Rugby Finals Race Heats Up
The Hurricanes are flying and Martin can barely hide it.
On the DSPN today, Marty and Tony Johnson get stuck into a wild round nine of Super Rugby Pacific, starting with the Canes’ statement win over the Blues. We get into what made them so sharp, why their kicking game keeps putting teams under the pump, and whether Ruben Love is turning every big game into another selection headache for the A
Should Rieko Ioane Still Be Picked For The All Blacks? | Mailbag
Marty and Young Producer Lachlan dive into a massive Mailbag session this week, questioning if the All Blacks are looking backwards by sticking with Rieko Ioane and Beauden Barrett. They tackle the bizarre excuses for the Super Rugby Pacific Easter schedule, debate who should lead the team under Dave Rennie, and preview the massive Hurricanes vs Blues clash.
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Murray Mexted: Defending Ian Foster And Picking All Blacks Starters For South Africa
Murray Mexted is back with us on DSPN and this one covers a lot of ground. From Ian Foster’s book to the inner workings of NZ Rugby, there’s plenty to unpack and not all of it is comfortable listening.
We get into the pressure Foster faced behind the scenes, the decision to name a new coach before a World Cup, and why Mexted believes the All Blacks setup wasn’t properly supported. There’s also a
Jamie Wall’s Super Rugby Pacific Form XV After 8 Rounds
Halfway through Super Rugby Pacific, we’ve done what rugby fans love doing most: picked a team and invited the arguments. Jamie Wall joins us to name a pure form XV after eight rounds. Not an All Blacks side, not a projected test squad, just the players who’ve been the best in their positions so far.
That means big calls, a few uncomfortable omissions, and plenty of names right on the edge. We ge
Rugby Roundtable: Super Rugby Easter Chaos And Shannon Frizell Returns
The DSPN crew is back to tear into the absolute mess that was the Super Rugby Easter schedule. Martin, Mark, and John don't hold back on the "lame" excuses from the board and why the fans deserve better. Plus, we look at Shannon Frizell’s return, the looming battle for the All Blacks midfield, and why referees need to stop trying to coach the players during the game.
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Jeff The Ref: Analysing Crusaders' Cards And Finau’s Big Hits
Martin and Jeff the Ref are back to break down a strange weekend of Super Rugby Pacific. With only three games on the slate, there was still plenty of drama to dissect, from cynical yellow cards to massive hits that tested the laws. Jeff explains why the Crusaders were pinged for slowing the ball and debates whether rugby needs to take a leaf out of league’s book when it comes to intercepts.
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Sean Maloney And Brett McKay: Super Rugby Contenders And Easter Schedule
Super Rugby Pacific hits the halfway mark and, honestly, it still feels like the comp is making it up as it goes. We get Sean Maloney and Brett McKay on with us to make sense of the Easter schedule, the state of the Australian teams, and whether anyone can actually stop another New Zealand side winning the title.
We get into the Brumbies’ case as Australia’s best hope, why the Reds are still so
Tony Johnson: Super Rugby's Sad Easter Schedule And Chiefs' Statement Win
Super Rugby gave us only three games over Easter, but there was still plenty to get stuck into. On this episode, Martin and Tony Johnson unpack why the competition missed a trick with the long weekend schedule, then dive into the biggest talking points from round eight.
We get into Codie Taylor’s ridiculous 150th game celebration, why the Chiefs made a real statement, and what the Force’s win o
Darren Shand: How The All Blacks Built A World Class Environment
What actually makes the All Blacks successful? It is not just what happens on the field.
Martin Devlin sits down with former All Blacks manager Darren Shand for a rare, deep dive into what really drives performance at the highest level. From leadership and culture to the importance of the “team behind the team,” Shand breaks down the ecosystem that powered one of the most dominant eras in rugby
Beauden Barrett On Beating Springboks In South Africa And 2027 World Cup
All Black legend Beauden Barrett joins Martin to talk about the "deep feeling of hurt" that’s driving him toward the 2027 World Cup. He opens up about the "unsettling" coaching changes within the All Blacks, his new life as a father of three, and why he’s not ready to head offshore just yet.
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All Black Coaching Strategy, Crusaders Super Rugby’s Giant Killers Of 2026? | Mailbag
We are diving deep into the mailbag this week as Martin and Lachlan tackle the big questions in New Zealand rugby. From the "swimming" tactics in the mall to the mental dread of facing a sixth-placed Crusaders side in the playoffs, no stone is left unturned. We also look at the All Blacks' need for individual upskilling and the structural challenges facing Moana Pasifika.
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Rugby Refs ‘Coaching The Players’, And Moana Pasifika’s Relevance | Rugby Roundtable
We are halfway through the Super Rugby season, and there is plenty to celebrate. From the All Whites’ historic win over Chile to the emergence of Ruben Love, Martin, John, and Mark, break down the standout performers. We also dive into the tricky future of Moana Pacifica and debate who should lead the All Blacks as captain this year.
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