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
All Blacks Squad for South Africa: Bolters, Comebacks and Big Omissions
The 44-man All Blacks squad for South Africa has been revealed.
Martin Devlin is joined by Tony Johnson to analyse the bolters, returning stars and surprise omissions. They examine the recalls of Rieko Ioane, Ethan Blackadder and Emoni Narawa, the three new caps, the lack of a fourth halfback and whether Josh Jacomb’s selection changes the picture for Richie Mo’unga.
Jamie Wall also joins from A
Springboks DEPTH vs All Blacks FORM | Who Takes The Rivalry Series?
We are digging straight into the mailbag as the Springboks drop their squad to face Argentina and the All Blacks. Jamie Wall & Martin Devlin break down Rassie Erasmus’s squad choices, evaluate flyhalf depth between Handrè Pollard, Manie Libbok, and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, and take subscriber questions on the final ten players joining our squad for South Africa.
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All Blacks Wil
Did Joe Schmidt Leave the Wallabies In A Better Place?
We wrap up the opening block of the Nations Championship with Australian journalists Brett McKay and Christy Doran. Martin challenges the claim that Joe Schmidt leaves the Wallabies in a better position. We debate weird team selections, the transition to Les Kiss, and South Africa's terrifying dominance.
IMAGE CREDIT: Joe Schmidt during the All Blacks v Australia, Lipovitan-D Rugby Championship,
The CONNECTION That Powers The ALL BLACKS | Lima Sopoaga
International flyhalf and former All Black Lima Sopoaga joins Martin Devlin and Jamie Wall on the DSPN for a wide-ranging, insider discussion on test rugby, team culture, and the All Blacks upcoming tour to South Africa.
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ALL BLACKS Tour Additions | Who Makes The Cut For The SPRINGBOK Series?
Dave Rennie is adding ten players to complete the All Blacks squad heading to South Africa. Martin, Mark, and John drop their picks for those final spots, debating forward pack depth, backline cover, and whether there is room for senior returns. Here is our breakdown of who earns a ticket on the plane for the greatest rivalry tour.
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Du’Plessis Kirifi during the All Blacks v South A
Why Tupou Vaa'i Is PERFECT At Six | Murray Mexted
We look back at a massive test match at Eden Park as the All Blacks beat Ireland 40 to 21. All Black legend Murray Mexted joins Martin Devlin to break down Dave Rennie's tactical setup, the selection of Tupou Vaa'i at six, and why winning the possession battle was the secret to dominating the Irish.
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All Blacks Tupou Vaa’i during the All Blacks v Ireland international test match,
All Blacks v Ireland | The BLUEPRINT to Beat South Africa
Watto is back from China and joining Martin and John in the studio as the Rugby Round Table reviews a huge night for the All Blacks at Eden Park. The team puts the three Nations Championship tests under the microscope to see if Dave Rennie's squad has truly has what it takes to beat the Springboks.
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All Blacks Luke Jacobson during the All Blacks v Ireland international test match,
All Blacks make a STATEMENT at Eden Park | Tony Johnson
We are looking back at a massive night at Eden Park as the All Blacks put on an absolute clinical performance to beat Ireland 40 to 21. Sky Sport’s Tony Johnson joins Martin to unpack Dave Rennie’s three-zero start and the dynamic backline combinations clicking into gear.
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Dan Sheehan of Ireland looks on during the All Blacks v Ireland international test match, Nations Championship
Why South Africa Look UNBEATABLE In This Championship
We are looking back at a massive weekend of Nations Championship rugby as the third round wraps up. Chris Jones joins Martin to unpack the All Blacks dominant forty to twenty-one victory over Ireland. We tear into England's shocking disciplinary crisis against Argentina, and evaluate South Africa's terrifying squad depth.
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Satisfied, Not Convinced: What the All Blacks’ Ireland Win Really Told Us
The initial reaction was happiness. The morning-after verdict is satisfaction, with a few important warnings.
Martin Devlin and Jamie Wall take a deeper look at the All Blacks’ 40-21 win over Ireland after having time to review the performance and absorb the post-match comments from both teams.
Did the victory settle the midfield debate? Should Ruben Love start at 10 in South Africa? Has Tupou V
All Blacks 40, Ireland 21: Optimism Returns at Eden Park
Six tries, 40 points and a statement victory over Ireland.
Martin Devlin and Jamie Wall react from Eden Park after the All Blacks produced their most complete performance of the July internationals, racing to a 28-7 halftime lead before closing out a convincing 40-21 win.
They discuss the improved defence, Tupou Vaa’i’s successful move to number six, the dominant set piece, the key moments that
Does RATIMA Deserve A Spot Over PRESTON? | ALL BLACKS V IRELAND MAILBAG
We're digging into the massive listener mailbag before the All Blacks run out against Ireland tomorrow night. Jamie joins Martin to look at the massive front row row, debate the fine margins keeping Wallace Sititi out of the twenty-three, and tear into the static five-minute cameos currently stalling Cortez Ratima.
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All Blacks Cortez Ratima during the All Blacks v Italy internatio
All Blacks v Ireland: Vaa’i at 6, Moorby Rewarded and the Midfield Debate LIVE REACTION SHOW
The All Blacks team to face Ireland at Eden Park has been named, and Martin Devlin, Jamie Wall and Nigel Yalden break down the biggest selection calls.
Tupou Vaa’i starts at blindside flanker, Patrick Tuipulotu plays his first Nations Championship Test, and Josh Moorby is rewarded after an impressive debut.
The panel also debates whether Jordie Barrett and Quinn Tupaea are now the All Blacks’ fi
'It's the ALL BLACKS to Lose' | Bernard Jackman on All Blacks v Ireland CLASH
World-class Irish commentator Bernard Jackman joins Marty to chart Dave Rennie’s structural progress, isolate Sam Prendergast’s defensive vulnerabilities, dissect Jamison Gibson-Park’s high-tempo tactical engine, and preview the brutal ground-and-pound framework arriving in Auckland.
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All Blacks Ardie Savea during the All Blacks v Italy international test match, Nations Championship
Selecting The All Blacks Squad to BEAT Ireland | Rugby Roundtable
All attention is on our 32-year Eden Park record as Thursday's official squad announcement looms. Broadcasting from high altitude on the Tibetan Plateau, Mark joins Martin and John to tear down the sanitized optimism surrounding our scratchy international progress. We debate the severe positional edits needed to face a world-class Irish side, expose front-row scrumming vulnerabilities, and use spo
Springboks CANNOT Afford To Lose Their AURA | Chris Jones On Rassie's ASTOUNDING Depth Ahead Of Tour
We are running a fine lens over global hierarchy changes following a massive winter block of test rugby. Sports Journalist Chris Jones joins Marty to evaluate our scratchy 47-17 margin over Italy and size up a brutal traveling Irish threat. We target the immense squad rotation depth currently separating South Africa from the chasing pack and analyze the tactical selection fear painting local strat
46 MISSED TACKLES?! | Tony Johnson Breaks Down Springboks VICTORY over SCOTLAND
We are diving deep into the massive fallout from Round Two of the Nations Championship. Tony Johnson joins the desk to unpack the All Blacks' 47-17 victory over Italy and analyze a wild weekend of global Rugby. We target the brutal travel schedule destroying Japan and Italy, tear down South Africa's messy 46 missed tackles, and argue over the confusing yellow card upgrade protocol.
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Can We beat IRELAND? | Tony Johnson Breaks Down All Blacks V Italy
We are running a fine microscope over the tactical fallout from the All Blacks' 47-17 victory over Italy. Sky Sport rugby commentator Tony Johnson joins Marty to play a definitive game of Glass Half Full. We project Will Jordan's trajectory toward the global try-scoring apex, dissect the 20-minute red card upgrade system, expose static first-half playmaking, and look ahead to the massive historica
Dave Rennie’s Ireland Warning: The All Blacks’ Biggest Test Yet
Dave Rennie fronts the media as the All Blacks turn their attention to a dangerous Irish side heading to Eden Park.
Rennie explains where Ireland can hurt New Zealand, why the All Blacks must add more balance to their attacking game, and how he plans to break down one of the world’s best defensive teams.
He also reveals why Rieko Ioane has joined the squad, addresses the TMO controversy, discuss
All Blacks v Italy: The Morning-After Verdict
Marty Devlin and Jamie Wall are back live from The Featherston in Wellington with their full morning-after reaction to the All Blacks’ test against Italy.
They break down the key moments, the standout performances, the selection calls and the biggest questions to come out of the match. What worked, what did not, and what does it all mean for the All Blacks from here?
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All Blacks post match | Dave Rennie and Ardie Savea
The All Black captain and coach wrap up the 47-17 victory over Italy at Hnry Stadium in Wellington.
#AllBlacks #Rugby #Italy #Wellington
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All Blacks vs Italy: Full Time Hot Takes
Marty and Jamie break down the key takeaways from the All Blacks' 47-17 win over Italy at Hnry Stadium. They're joined by Josh Moorby, Anton Segner and Will Jordan, plus some extra analysis from TVNZ's Luke Robinson and NZ Herald's Gregor Paul.
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REACTING TO ALL BLACKS V ITALY TEAM NAMING w/ TONY JOHNSON
All Blacks Head Coach Dave Rennie has just revealed the side to take on Italy this Saturday in Wellington!
We're LIVE with Sky Sport's TONY JOHNSON to discuss everything about it!
Let us know your thoughts in the chat!
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What Do The Coaches Think of ALL BLACKS V FRANCE? | Analyzing Dave Rennie's Comments
We dive into Coach's Corner to unpack the fallout from our thrilling clash against France. Martin and Jamie pull apart the defensive stats from Dave Rennie and the breakdown secrets from Neil Barnes. Plus we look at the upcoming test against Italy in Wellington and ask why defence coach Tana Umaga has been kept away from the media.
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All Blacks Ardie Savea during the All Blacks v Fr
What If Cam Roigard Gets Hurt? | FANS REACT TO ALL BLACKS V FRANCE
The All Blacks 34-32 victory over France at One New Zealand Stadium has completely set our comment section on fire. Marty and Jamie sit down for an emergency midweek mailbag to unpack thousands of your comments about breakdown brutality and early yellow cards. We debate the halfback depth, check in on our outright sprint pace, and settle the ongoing Will Jordan positional saga.
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Al
'We Wanna Play At Speed' | JASON RYAN On Why This All Blacks Squad REFUSES To Slow Down
The Test season is in overdrive as the All Blacks navigate a windy, cold Auckland training week before heading to the capital. Forwards coach Jason Ryan unpicks Dave Rennie's "brilliant at basics" directive, addresses the team's defensive cohesion, and directly maps out the selection framework. Plus, dynamic loose forward Wallace Sititi shares an incredibly open, moving account of his mental recov
How We Can BEAT South Africa | All Blacks Rugby Roundtable
In this weeks Roundtable...
We lock horns over Dave Rennie’s "confusing" positional selections, evaluate the heavy technical load currently draining captain Ardie Savea, expose the corporate buzzwords invading the whiteboard blueprints, and profile the looming Eden Park threat from Ireland.
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All Blacks Ardie Savea during the All Blacks v France international test match, Nations C
'A Mindset Shift' | Neil Barnes Explains Why The All Blacks Aren't Just Copying The Past
We are tracking the All Blacks' preparation as they shift camp from Christchurch to Wellington. Assistant coach Neil Barnes directly addresses the selection philosophy, the 95% sub-3-second ruck analytics, and the high-tackle penalty count. Plus, rookie loosehead prop Xavier Numia reflects on a highly emotional debut with his grandfather, and towering lock Sam Darry shares the data tweaks needed t
The Brutal Ruck Analytics Driving The All Blacks' THRILLER Win Over France | TONY JOHNSON
The groundbreaking opening round of the inaugural Nations Championship is officially in the books. Veteran Sky Sport rugby broadcaster Tony Johnson joins Marty to run a fine microscope over the All Blacks' adventurous 34-32 victory against a bruising French team in Christchurch. We break down the staggering ruck speed analytics, validate Luke Jacobson’s relentless physical work rate, analyze the b
Rassie DESTROYS Borthwick! | Breaking down the Springboks 7-Try Masterclass!
The inaugural round of the Nations Championship is officially in the books, and rugby scribe Chris Jones joins Marty to unpack a wild opening weekend. We break down the absolute demolition of England at Ellis Park, Tony Brown’s revolutionary impact on the Springbok attack, and the defensive red flags surrounding the All Blacks’ high-tempo win over France.
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The Morning After: All Blacks vs France Post-Mortem
Martin Devlin and Jamie Wall are live from Christchurch the morning after the All Blacks opened the Dave Rennie era with a thrilling 34-32 victory over France.
After sleeping on the result, they break down the good, the bad and the genuinely concerning. The All Blacks scored five tries and showed a clear new attacking intent, but defensive lapses, discipline issues and four French tries ensured t
All Blacks vs France: Live Reaction and Player Interviews
In a special live podcast recorded straight after full time, Martin Devlin and Jamie Wall react from One NZ Stadium in Christchurch to the All Blacks’ opening Test of 2026 against France.
They break down the key moments, standout performances and biggest talking points from the match, before being joined straight off the field by Peter Lakai, Fehi Fineanganofo and Jamie Hannah.
Immediate analysi
Fans React to Dave Rennie's First ALL BLACK Squad | Mailbag
The first All Blacks starting lineup of the season is officially locked in, and Jamie Wall joins Marty live from Christchurch to unpack the mailbag. We tackle the massive debate surrounding Ruben Love getting his first international start at first-five, analyze why Luke Jacobson got the nod over a dominant Du'Plessis Kirifi, and look into a major milestone conspiracy dividing local fans.
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Dave Rennie's first All Black Team Named: Live Reaction
Martin Devlin is joined by Nigel Yalden and Jamie Wall live in Christchurch ahead of the All Blacks’ opening Nations Championship Test against France.
The trio break down Dave Rennie’s first All Blacks team, the big selection calls and the pressure on Ruben Love to make the No. 10 jersey his own.
They also ask whether this new coaching group can get more from a familiar group of players than the
Why Dave Rennie Will BRUTALIZE the French Loose Forward Pack | Brad Weber
All Blacks halfback and 123-game Chiefs legend Brad Weber steps into the DSPN studio for a masterclass on the technical mechanics behind Dave Rennie's tactical setup ahead of the opening French test.
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All Blacks XV Brad Weber speaks at an interview after the match between New Zealand XV and Japan XV in the Lipovitan-D Rugby Challenge Cup, Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium, Tokyo, Japan,
WILL RENNIE START RUBEN LOVE AGAINST FRANCE!? | Roundtable
The highly anticipated international test season is officially here, and our expert roundtable is completely divided. Mark Watson and John Day join Marty for a fiery debate ahead of the All Blacks' blockbuster opening test against France in Christchurch. We lock horns over the No.10 starting jersey, break down the massive selection fallout over Ethan de Groot’s match fitness, and preview a sensati
DAMIAN MCKENZIE + NIEL BARNES On Upcoming ALL BLACKS v FRANCE Test Match
We are live from the boundary lines at Christ's College in Christchurch for day two of test week. Newly appointed All Blacks assistant coach Neil Barnes joins us to outline Dave Rennie's "brilliant at basics" forward pack blueprints and fires back at the media narrative surrounding France's touring squad. Plus, first-five Damian McKenzie joins us at his old stomping ground to detail his mental res
Tony Johnson on Dave Rennie's First ALL BLACK Test + ANZAC Test News
Sky Sport commentator Tony Johnson joins Marty to break down Dave Rennie’s first selection framework. We unpack the groundbreaking Anzac Test proposal for the Bledisloe Cup at Suncorp Stadium, navigate the backfield shuffle caused by Will Jordan's injury cloud, and outline why Rennie should instantly give Ruben Love the NO.10 keys in Christchurch.
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All Blacks head coach Dave Renni
Jason Ryan Breaks Silence On Being The Only Coach Left From The Old Regime!
We are live on the ground in Christchurch at the All Blacks' team hotel. Assistant coach Jason Ryan opens up about surviving the coaching turnover, dealing with Neil Barnes' new lineout structures, and prepping the forward pack for a massive, innovative French unit. Plus, Jordie Barrett joins us to discuss his senior role, adapting to his fourth international head coach, and building chemistry wit
PICKING THE 23-MAN ALL BLACK SQUAD TO FACE FRANCE
Dave Rennie's All Blacks Squad is locked in, and now the real chess match begins. Martin Devlin and Jamie Wall form their own two-man selection committee to predict the 23-man lineup for Dave Rennie’s first official test match in charge against France.
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New Zealand Jordie Barrett during the All Blacks v South Africa, Lipovitan-D Rugby Championship Test, New Zealand, Saturday, 0
MAIN TAKEAWAYS FROM DAVE RENNIE'S SQUAD! | MURRAY MEXTED'S INSIDE WORD
All Black legend Murray Mexted joins Marty in the studio for a deep, no-nonsense breakdown of the Hurricanes' spectacular championship victory and Dave Rennie's inaugural 34-man national squad. Mex details why Rennie’s clinical messaging cuts straight through media noise, explains the instinctive advantage of starting the firing Hurricanes backline, and delivers a stark warning about our ball-winn
WHAT DO FANS THINK OF DAVE RENNIE'S ALL BLACKS SQUAD!?
The response to Monday's All Blacks squad naming has been absolutely massive. Martin Devlin and Jamie Wall fire up an emergency midweek mailbag to filter through the raw emotion of over 1,500 fan comments. We tackle the furious debate surrounding Anton Lienert-Brown's selection, the exclusion of Timoci Tavatavanawai, and whether Beauden Barrett's current form justifies his spot in this new era.IMA
WHAT GRAHAM HENRY BRINGS (BACK) TO THE ALL BLACKS | JOHN AFOA
All Black legend and 516 first-class game veteran John Afoa enters the studio to pull apart Dave Rennie's first squad announcement. John explains the real purpose of these July tests, why Cortez Ratima and Kyle Preston offer distinct tactical profiles, and the "illusion of height" in international lineouts. Plus, we react to the breaking news that Moana Pasifika is officially out of Super Rugby Pa
FEHI FINEANGANOFO ON BECOMING AN ALL BLACK & NEWCASTLE CONTRACT SITUATION
The first All Blacks squad announcement of 2026 is in the books and the emotions are running high. Jamie Wall caught up with new caps Fehi Fineanganofo, Josh Moorby, Xavier Numia, and Anton Segner to trace their incredible journeys to the black jersey. Importantly, we dive into Fineanganofo's cloud-covered Newcastle contract situation.
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Hurricanes Fehi Fineanganofo celebrates a try
DID DAVE RENNIE PICK THE RIGHT ALL BLACKS SQUAD!? | Roundtable
The first All Blacks squad of the year is officially locked in. Martin Devlin sits down with Mark Watson and John Day to run through the newbies and the massive snubs from yesterday's announcement. We debate why Du'Plessis Kirifi and Samipeni Finau missed out after their massive final performances. Plus we check the status of the controversial Richie Mo'unga training rumors.IMAGE CREDIT:New Zealan
LIVE REACTION: Dave Rennie names his first All Blacks squad
Martin Devlin, Tony Johnson and Jamie Wall react live to Dave Rennie’s first All Blacks squad naming.
They break down the four new caps, Ardie Savea’s appointment as captain, Kyle Preston’s surprise selection and the biggest omissions, including Du’Plessis Kirifi and Noah Hotham.
Jamie reports from the squad announcement in Feilding, while Martin and Tony debate the strongest starting XV for the
CHIEFS v HURRICANES | GRAND FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE
Clarke Laidlaw and Jono Gibbes join the captains upstairs for a press conference before the ultimate decider at the Cake Tin. We break down the massive lineout battle, the return of Jordie Barrett, and what it takes to banish past heartbreak and secure a title.
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Chiefs Tupou Vaa'i during the Chiefs v Crusaders, Super Rugby Pacific match, FMG Stadium Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand. S
WHY JORDIE BARRETT IS NEW ZEALAND'S BEST PLAYER!
The Grand Final is locked in. Special guest Ross Karl from the Aotearoa Rugby Pod joins us in the studio to preview the blockbuster Hurricanes vs Chiefs decider. We break down why Jordie Barrett is the complete package, look at the brutal loose forward styles clash, and debate who claims the All Blacks Number 10 Jersey on Monday.
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Hurricanes Jordie Barrett during the Hurricanes v Bl
'It's The Stuff You Dream Of' | OLLIE NORRIS ON THE SUPER RUGBY GRANDFINAL
The Super Rugby Pacific Grand Final is officially locked in for an absolute blockbuster matchup in Wellington. Ollie Norris joins Marty on the show to review their devastating semifinal performance against the Crusaders. We look at his recovery from surgery, the scrum tactics needed to stop the Hurricanes, and how the squad is channeling past heartbreak to chase the trophy.
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Chiefs
Talking to the SUPER RUGBY PLAYER OF THE YEAR + Team Announcements Reaction
The teams are officially locked in for the Super Rugby Pacific Grand Final at the Cake Tin. We break down the massive squad announcements, including the scary loose forward depth of the Chiefs. Plus we head to the Sky Tower to chat with the newly crowned Super Rugby Player of the Year, Quinn Tupaea.
00:10 - Squad Reactions
05:55 - Quinn Tupaea Press Conference
18:40 - Wrap Up
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"I'm Gonna Go With The Chiefs" | ANT STRACHAN ON SUPER RUGBY FINAL + ALL BLACKS SELECTION
Former All Black Ants Strachan joins Marty to preview an incredibly highly anticipated Super Rugby final between the top two high-flying teams. We dive deep into the kicking strategies, the set-piece proficiency under sour weather conditions, and why the Hurricanes' loose forwards have the edge. Plus, Ant delivers a passionate reflection on his own All Blacks selection and weighs in on the ruthles
"BARRETT'S HAD HIS DAY" | WILL BEAUDEN MAKE THE CUT!? | Rugby Roundtable
It’s grand final week, and the Rugby Roundtable is fired up. John Day and Mark Watson join the show to pick a winner in the blockbusting Hurricanes vs Chiefs decider. We debate whether the Chiefs can break their four-final losing curse, analyze why the Blues' defensive system completely imploded down the stretch, and lock horns over whether Beauden Barrett a spot in Monday’s All Blacks squad annou
"You Expect Them To Be In Control" | TONY JOHNSON ON CRUSADERS SHOCKING SEMI-FINAL DEFEAT
The two absolute best teams have made the grand final, and Sky Sport's Tony Johnson joins Marty to unpack a sensational weekend of semifinal results. We dive into the massive debate surrounding Cam Roigard's controversial "sportsmanship" try against the Blues, analyze Damian McKenzie’s masterclass performance against the Crusaders, and look ahead to the ultimate selection showdown in Wellington.
ENGLAND IS FLYING! CAN NZ CATCH UP? | WOMEN'S RUGBY
We are locking into a massive breakdown on the state of the women's global game. New Zealand Rugby’s Hannah Porter joins the desk to address the worrying pipeline leak between high school and senior women's rugby. We talk handling England’s club-dominated model, the radical 15-week shift for Super Rugby Aupiki, and an historic double-header in Johannesburg.
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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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