The Ruck Rugby Podcast

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The Rugby Podcast from The Times & The Sunday Times Stephen Jones, Owen Slot and a selection of rugby personalities provide insight and analysis on the latest events in the game, including big name interviews and forthright analysis.

The Times


    • Sep 28, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 44m AVG DURATION
    • 594 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from The Ruck Rugby Podcast

    Gloucester, Bristol or Pollock's hair: Who made the biggest Prem statement?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 28, 2026 35:24


    The opening weekend of the Gallagher Prem saw Gloucester, Bristol, Bath and Saracens all win away from home.Alfie, Charlie and Elgan ask which result was the biggest statement and look back on all of the action.Should Sale be worried after they lost at home to Bristol? How did Saracens manage an away win at Leicester despite having a 20-minute red card? And, is Henry Pollock worth £400,000 a year? Plus, by beating South Africa did Australia show that they'll be a force at their home World Cup in 2027? And, should the Black Ferns have settled for a draw against the Red Roses? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Welsh Chaos to Gloucester: Jac Morgan & Dewi Lake

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2026 34:25


    Gloucester begin their Gallagher Prem campaign away to Exeter Chiefs this weekend!For a city with such a strong rugby history they have never won the Premiership and have only reached the play-offs once in the last fifteen years.So will their fortunes change this season?Alfie and Will are at Kingsholm to chat with Dewi Lake and Jac Morgan. The Welsh internationals joined the club this summer from the Ospreys. They chat about dealing with the chaos in Welsh rugby in recent years, why they moved to the Prem and the new initiation at Gloucester now that the infamous 'milk challenge' has been replaced with something else. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    From Sarries & Brive to Sale: Lozowski, Lawes & a possible England re-call

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2026 39:46


    As we continue to build-up to the start of the new Gallagher Prem season, Alfie and Will are in the North-West.They've made the trip to Sale Sharks to chat with new signings Alex Lozowski and Courtney Lawes.Lawes returns to English rugby following two years playing for Brive in Pro D2. Will he return to the England squad in time for the 2027 World Cup? And why has he made the move to Sale?Lozowski joins after ten years with Saracens. He explains why it's a homecoming of sorts and what the club can achieve this season. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Season Preview: Who will win the 2026/2027 Gallagher Prem?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2026 60:15


    It's the start of a new Gallagher Prem season!Alfie and Will are at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, to look ahead to another campaign.They're joined by Newcastle Red Bulls head coach Dan McFarland, Harlequins and England prop Fin Baxter and the Northampton Saints and England fly-half Fin Smith.Will Newcastle - now into a second season under Red Bull ownership - have a more successful campaign? Can Harlequins bounce back from last year's disappointment? And, will Northampton do a better job of defending their title than the last time they were defending champions?Plus, will Sale's blockbuster recruitment drag them back up the table? What will Saracens look like under Brendan Venter? And - the all-important question - who will win the league this year? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Will a 6 Nations match happen in the USA?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 14, 2026 44:19


    Rugby's Greatest Rivalry concluded with the Springboks winning the fourth test in Baltimore to secure a 3-1 series victory.Alfie, Alex, Charlie and Elgan look back on the epic contest and discuss the best approach for beating the Boks.With the match taking place in the USA they ask why rugby is taking matches Stateside? Was the occasion a success? And, could a 6 Nations match really happen in the US? It follows the news last week that World Rugby is keen for a fixture to take place across the Atlantic.Plus, why have England given Steve Borthwick a contract extension? And the Red Roses were back in action and, as always, back winning.***From captaining the England rugby team to tackling life's toughest challenges — including his recent MND diagnosis — Lewis Moody has always been a man of action.Don't miss Lewis in London on November 5th, where he'll be sitting down with Times rugby correspondent Alex Lowe to discuss his new book, Fronting Up. Expect an honest and deeply inspiring conversation exploring the mistakes, triumphs, and life lessons that forged a great man's mettle.For tickets, head to thetimes.com/events Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Boks vs All Blacks: Does the 4th test count?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 7, 2026 39:08


    The third match in Rugby's Greatest Rivalry produced another brilliant test!South Africa leads the series 2-1 after beating New Zealand 29-24. Attention now turns to the USA as the fourth test takes place in Baltimore.But, does that matter? Were the three games in South Africa the ones the nations cared about most? And, how far ahead of the rest are the Springboks and All Blacks?Alfie, Charlie and Elgan react to the 3rd test and discuss whether other nations have a chance of beating South Africa.They also look ahead to the start of the WXV, react to Steve Borthwick's latest training squad and ask, 'What is the point of the Prem Cup?'***From captaining the England rugby team to tackling life's toughest challenges — including his recent MND diagnosis — Lewis Moody has always been a man of action.Don't miss Lewis in London on November 5th, where he'll be sitting down with Times rugby correspondent Alex Lowe to discuss his new book, Fronting Up. Expect an honest and deeply inspiring conversation exploring the mistakes, triumphs, and life lessons that forged a great man's mettle.For tickets, head to thetimes.com/events Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Is the 3rd test the unofficial decider? Plus: Did Rassie break the rules?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 31, 2026 39:02


    The Greatest Rivalry series is level at 1-1!South Africa beat New Zealand in Cape Town and now attention turns to the third test in Johannesburg. Despite being a four match series, is the third test - which is the final one on South African soil - the unofficial decider? Alfie and Alex reflect on the second test including the controversial build-up, in which Rassie Erasmus made multiple changes to his matchday squad. Was this within the regulations? Did it go against the spirit of the game?Plus, legendary former All Blacks captain Sean Fitzpatrick chats to Alex about the upcoming film 'Jonah' which focuses on the iconic Jonah Lomu. Sean explains why there will never be another player like him. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    An All Blacks win for the ages: Is Pollard South Africa's answer?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 24, 2026 38:20


    The first test between South Africa and New Zealand produced a famous win for the All Blacks. Can South Africa respond?Was this the best thing for the four match series? Why has Rassie Erasmus named his team for the second test already despite injury concerns? And, how important was Saturday's victory for New Zealand under Dave Rennie?Alfie and Charlie are in studio to analyse the key moments which led to the All Blacks' victory and ask how big an impact will this have on the back-to-back world champions? Alex dials in from South Africa to react to Rassie's team for the second test and explains why Handre Pollard has been selected over Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu.***From captaining the England rugby team to tackling life's toughest challenges — including his recent MND diagnosis — Lewis Moody has always been a man of action.Don't miss Lewis in London on November 5th, where he'll be sitting down with Times rugby correspondent Alex Lowe to discuss his new book, Fronting Up. Expect an honest and deeply inspiring conversation exploring the mistakes, triumphs, and life lessons that forged a great man's mettle.For tickets, head to thetimes.com/events. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    The Greatest Rivalry: Is this New Zealand's ultimate test?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2026 36:10


    South Africa and New Zealand play the first test of their four match 'Rugby's Greatest Rivalry' series this weekend.Alfie is joined by Alex and New Zealand journalist Jamie Wall, who are both in South Africa, to look ahead to the series.How big are the next four matches for rugby's two super-powers? How does it compare to when England took on the Boks just six weeks ago? And, why has there been a war of words this week in the build-up?Jamie explains the headlines from Dave Rennie's All Blacks team selection and why winning the first test is so pivotal for New Zealand.***From captaining the England rugby team to tackling life's toughest challenges — including his recent MND diagnosis — Lewis Moody has always been a man of action.Don't miss Lewis in London on November 5th, where he'll be sitting down with Times rugby correspondent Alex Lowe to discuss his new book, Fronting Up. Expect an honest and deeply inspiring conversation exploring the mistakes, triumphs, and life lessons that forged a great man's mettle.For tickets, head to hetimes.com/events. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Rugby's Greatest Rivals| Episode 6: The Incomparables and a rivalry reimagined

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2026 25:46


    In episode 6 of our special series on the fierce rivalry between rugby's superpowers, the sport is hurtling into the professional era.South Africa are world champions after 1995 but New Zealand are on the verge of one of their greatest moments. We hear from John Hart, who led the All Blacks on their 1996 tour of South Africa, as well as former players Sean Fitzpatrick, Ian Jones and Josh Kronfeld. Was theirs the greatest New Zealand side of all time? Plus, former Springbok Joel Stransky describes the team's struggle to replicate the dizzying heights of ‘95. This podcast was produced and edited by Alfie Reynolds, with help from Hope Federico, Rob Wallace, Jamie Wall and David Whisson. Read more: Rugby's Greatest Rivals: Springboks v All Blacks Clips: DSPN Rugby (John Hart interview)Photo: Getty Images Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Rugby's Greatest Rivals | Episode 5: Readmission for a Rainbow Nation

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2026 24:34


    In episode 5 of our special series on the fierce rivalry between rugby's superpowers, Nelson Mandela walks free, apartheid crumbles and South Africa becomes a new country.The Springboks and the All Blacks face off once more, with Mandela seizing the opportunity to help heal a wounded nation. With the 1995 World Cup reaching its final, two of the players - former Springbok Joel Stransky and All Black captain Sean Fitzpatrick - describe being part of one of the greatest moments in sporting history.This podcast was produced and edited by Alfie Reynolds, with help from Hope Federico, Robert Wallace, Jamie Wall and David Whisson. Read more: Rugby's Greatest Rivals: Springboks v All Blacks Clips: World Rugby (1995 World Cup final)Photo: Getty Images Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Rugby's Greatest Rivals | Episode 4: Rebellion to isolation

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2026 20:08


    In episode 4 of our special series on the fierce rivalry between rugby's superpowers, we focus on the most controversial rugby tour in history: the 1986 New Zealand Cavaliers.Despite the global boycott, a group of rebel Kiwi players agree to tour South Africa. Former Springbok Schalk Burger Sr describes how he found out about the deal before any of his teammates - and why it opened a door to the players being paid. The chair of New Zealand Rugby and former World Cup-winning All Black captain David Kirk also explains his decision not to tour, and the fierce reaction amongst the NZ public when the tour went ahead.This podcast was produced and edited by Alfie Reynolds, with help from Hope Federico, Robert Wallace, Jamie Wall and David Whisson. Read more: Rugby's Greatest Rivals: Springboks v All Blacks Photo: Getty Images Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Rugby's Greatest Rivals | Episode 3: The Flour Bomb test

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 17, 2026 15:57


    In episode 3 of our special series on the fierce rivalry between rugby's superpowers, we are into the 1980s - a decade defined by rebellion.The 1981 Springbok tour to New Zealand goes ahead despite an international agreement to stop sporting contact with apartheid South Africa. Unrest culminates in flour bombs being thrown out of aircraft at the players. Former Springbok Rob Louw reflects on matters on and off the pitch.This podcast was produced and edited by Alfie Reynolds, with help from Hope Federico, Robert Wallace, Jamie Wall and David Whisson. Read more: Rugby's Greatest Rivals: Springboks v All Blacks Photo: Getty Images Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Rugby's Greatest Rivals | Episode 2: Racial lines drawn, and blurred

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 16, 2026 25:51


    In episode 2 of our special series on the fierce rivalry between rugby's superpowers, the former Springbok Morne du Plessis talks about the sheer, violent ferocity of test matches between South Africa and New Zealand. For decades, these matches continue to be played among the shadows of race tensions in both countries. The introduction of apartheid adds pressure, boiling over in a boycott of the 1976 Montreal Olympics.This podcast was produced and edited by Alfie Reynolds, with help from Hope Federico, Robert Wallace, Jamie Wall and David Whisson. Read more: Rugby's Greatest Rivals: Springboks v All Blacks Photo: Getty Images Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Rugby's Greatest Rivals | Episode 1: Consider your country at war

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 15, 2026 12:01


    The Springboks and All Blacks share a rivalry like no other - and it's about so much more than just the rugby itself. The real story goes back over a century of racism, rebel tours, politics and protest, fuelling fierce confrontations on the field. With South Africa and New Zealand about to kick-off a four test series branded 'Rugby's Greatest Rivalry', Alex, Will and Elgan bring you a special podcast series charting the history of battles between rugby's superpowers. Our story starts over a century ago, in a world recovering from war, where tension over race is sparked by the infamous 'Blackett telegram'.This podcast was produced and edited by Alfie Reynolds, with help from Hope Federico, Robert Wallace, Jamie Wall and David Whisson. Read more: Rugby's Greatest Rivals: Springboks v All Blacks Photo: Getty Images Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Nations Championship Round 3: Are Ireland still a top side? Plus, a new Springbok captain?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 20, 2026 53:18


    The 3rd round of the Nations Championship saw New Zealand hammer Ireland, England hold on to win against Argentina and South Africa destroy Wales.Alfie Reynolds, Stuart Barnes and Charlie Morgan look back on all the action and Mark Palmer joins to reflect on Scotland's summer.Could it be the end of Siya Kolisi as the Springbok captain? Are Ireland no longer one of the best sides in the world? And, did the officials get the big decision right at the end of Argentina vs England?Can Scotland now compete with the top teams? What do Wales take away from defeat in South Africa? And, can England kick on in November? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Borthwick slams the "Negativity Committee" as England dodge disaster

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 19, 2026 54:46


    England finished their Nations Championship matches this summer by beating Argentina 24-31!Steve Borthwick's side produced some of their best rugby of 2026 but also suffered the same disciplinary issues which saw them almost collapse to draw.The TMO saved England when Argentina thought they had scored a try with the final play of the match. So, after a mad match Will Kelleher and Alex Lowe are back in Buenos Aires to reflect on the game, Steve Borthwick's punchy post-match comments and the Nations Championship as a whole.They discuss whether the competition has been more successful than they expected, why Borthwick hit back despite the obvious discipline problems and where this leaves the team heading into November. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Can Los Pumas inflict another Argentine defeat on England?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2026 52:51


    Argentina host England in the Nations Championship this weekend!Can Los Pumas make it another Argentine win following the football World Cup semi-final?Will Kelleher and Alex Lowe are in Buenos Aires to reflect on an incredible night in the capital and to look ahead to the weekend. They explain why Henry Pollock has been named on the bench by Steve Borthwick, why this is England's biggest test of the summer and the advantage of having Marcus Smith at full-back.Plus, can Ireland be the first side to win at Eden Park in the professional era? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    How can anyone stop the Springboks?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 13, 2026 52:58


    After the second round of the Nations Championship Alfie Reynolds, Stuart Barnes and Charlie Morgan look back on all of the action.They ask which nation might be able to compete with South Africa at the next World Cup and what style of rugby could cause them problems. That's after a weakened Springboks team beat Scotland despite an impressive display from Gregor Townsend's men.Plus, are the All Blacks under Dave Rennie once again playing to their strengths? Should Henry Pollock start for England away in Argentina? And, Peter O'Reilly looks ahead to Ireland's trip to Eden Park. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    England back to winning ways: But did we learn anything?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2026 33:47


    England absolutely dismantled Fiji 73-8 to return to winning ways on the second weekend of the Nations Championship.Fiji were ill disciplined and lacking accuracy as Steve Borthwick's side put them to the sword.From Merseyside Alex Lowe and Will Kelleher reflect on a bizarre and messy match. They ask what can England take away from the victory given that Fiji were so poor? Does this ease the pressure on Steve Borthwick? Or is the real test how they get on next week against Argentina? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Full strength England face 'must win' Fiji test

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2026 40:02


    It's the second round of the Nations Championship with England taking on Fiji in Liverpool.How much pressure are Steve Borthwick's team under after their defeat to South Africa?Alfie Reynolds, Alex Lowe, Charlie Morgan and Will Kelleher look ahead to the match and focus on the growing frustration among England fans. They chat about the need for both a result and a performance against a very dangerous Fijian side. Plus, could the success of the England football team at the World Cup distract attention from the under-pressure head coach? They also ask why there is such a disconnect between how the team views its performances and how the supporters view them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Nations Championship starts with a bang. Is captain Pollock the answer for England?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 6, 2026 56:46


    The opening weekend of the Nations Championship produced some brilliant matches!Alfie Reynolds, Stuart Barnes and Elgan Alderman look back on all the action, including a tight victory for New Zealand against France, an important win for Wales versus Fiji and Scotland beating Argentina away.Peter O'Reilly chats about Ireland's narrow win against Australia where the hosts missed a penalty kick on the last play to win it. Plus, the boys ask how much pressure England and Steve Borthwick are under after they were hammered by South Africa? Barnsey explains why he's made the drastic suggestion that Henry Pollock should be made England captain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    England 'obliterated' by ruthless South Africa

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 4, 2026 49:48


    England's opening match in the Nations Championship saw them hammered 45-21 by South Africa at Ellis Park.From the stadium Will Kelleher, Alex Lowe and Charlie Morgan reflect on the match. They ask how much pressure this piles onto England ahead of games against Fiji and Argentina? What does it mean for Steve Borthwick? And, can anyone stop the Springboks winning a third straight World Cup next year?Nobody expected England to win, but even so, how alarming was the performance? Did the way they rallied at the end of the second half do enough to ease concerns? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    How Can England stun the Springboks?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2026 54:36


    What are the odds that England beat South Africa in Johannesburg on Saturday?From South Africa, Will Kelleher is joined by Alex Lowe and Charlie Morgan to look ahead to England's massive opening clash in the Nations Championship at Ellis Park. The panel debates whether Steve Borthwick's side can pull off a monumental upset on South African soil. Is this team stronger than anything they selected in the 6 Nations? How will Henry Pollock perform as he faces the Springboks for the first time? And, how will England play, following their dismal 6 Nations? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Does rugby need the Nations Championship?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 29, 2026 52:05


    The inaugural Nations Championship starts this weekend but does rugby need it? Do fans even know or care what it is?Will Kelleher, Alex Lowe and Charlie Morgan are in South Africa ahead of England's match in Johannesburg on Saturday. They ask whether the re-vamped format will be successful or if it will struggle to breakthrough during a busy summer of sport.Could it be a good thing long term? Or is it an unnecessary innovation?They also look ahead to the opening weekend of fixtures and discuss the incredibly strong Springboks team named on Monday morning by Rassie Erasmus. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Northampton Saints beat Exeter Chiefs in compelling final

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2026 38:55


    Northampton Saints are the champions of England!They beat Exeter Chiefs 26-17 in the final to be crowned champions for the second time in three years.Alfie Reynolds, Alex Lowe and Charlie Morgan look back on the match and ask what does it mean for Northampton? Does this cement them as the latest dynasty in English rugby?Will Exeter be able to bounce back from this defeat? And, why is it that the Prem final always delivers such a great occasion? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Can Exeter upset Saints to win the Prem?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2026 42:18


    Northampton Saints will play Exeter Chiefs in the Prem final on Saturday.Alfie and Will are at Sandy Park in Devon as they look ahead to the match and chat to Exeter's Director of Rugby Rob Baxter and winger Olly Woodburn.They discuss whether Northampton Saints will win a second title in three years or whether Exeter are about to finish a remarkable run to the title.Baxter chats about his pride in getting the club back to the final and what they have learnt from their previous trips to Twickenham. Whilst Olly Woodburn discusses last minute drop goals and celebratory ski goggles. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Prem semi-final drama! Why didn't Bath kick a drop goal?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 14, 2026 50:21


    Northampton will face Exeter in the Prem final!Charlie Morgan and Will Kelleher join Alfie Reynolds to look back on the semi-final weekend which produced two excellent matches as Northampton beat rivals Leicester and Exeter produced a comeback to win away against Bath.Despite all their success under Rob Baxter, was this one of Exeter's great days? They became only the 7th team in Prem history to win away from home in a semi-final.Have they played their final already? Or can they produce another remarkable result?Northampton will look to cement themselves as the dominant side in England when they make the trip to Twickenham next weekend. How impressive is it for them to be back in the final again?Plus, could Maro Itoje really miss England's matches this summer?***Allianz Future Fund | Allianz Insurance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Are these the most evenly matched Prem semi-finals ever?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2026 47:05


    The Prem rugby semi-final line-up is confirmed: Northampton hosts rivals Leicester and Bath play Exeter.Alfie Reynolds, Alex Lowe and Charlie Morgan preview the semi-finals and ask is this the hardest season to predict who will make the final?Could an away side get a rare victory? They also discuss the teams near the bottom of the league. Who had the most disappointing campaign? And who has reasons to be optimistic?Plus, Andy Farrell has signed a contract extension to remain Ireland head coach until 2031. How big a blow is that to England and the RFU? And what does it say about the appeal of the England head coach job? ***Allianz Future Fund | Allianz Insurance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Who will qualify for the play-offs!?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2026 53:27


    With one week of the regular season remaining Alfie, Will and Elgan look ahead to the final weekend in the Prem.They chat about the crunch fixtures as Bath host Leicester and Exeter play Saracens and ask who will make it into the play-offs? With Bristol now out of the running for the top four they ask what next for the club? Is this another season of underachievement? And, have Sale hit rock bottom following their last-gasp defeat away to lowly Newcastle?Plus, Saracens and England full-back Elliot Daly chats to Will and Elgan about his latest injury set-back, the departing Mark McCall and Saracens' push for the play-offs.And, Worcester have won the Champ, Jo Yapp will be the first coach of the British & Irish Lions women's team and is Shaun Edwards departing France?***Allianz Future Fund | Allianz Insurance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    French dominance in Europe! Bordeaux hammer Leinster

    Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2026 37:08


    Alex and Will are in Bilbao to reflect on the Champions Cup final!Bordeaux have won back-to-back titles to join the elite sides in European Club rugby. What makes them so special? It is now 6 years in a row that a French club have been crowned Champions of Europe, how can anyone catch them?What does this defeat mean for Leinster? Their 5th Champions Cup final defeat in a row and is this one the most damaging of the lot?Plus, do EPCR need to do more 'destination' cities for their finals? And will we see a World Cup in Spain!? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Should Van Rensburg be in the England squad?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 18, 2026 64:07


    Steve Borthwick's latest England training squad includes Benhard Janse Van Rensburg, who has qualified on residency grounds. Does it make sense for him to be parachuted directly into the set up? Or is it a bad look for the RFU and their talent pipelines?Alfie Reynolds, Charlie Morgan and Will Kelleher chat about that and the news that South African sides might pull out of the Champions Cup. Is this a good or a bad thing for the competition? Bordeaux attack coach Noel McNamara speaks to Will ahead of the Champions Cup final this weekend as they take on Leinster. The lads reflect on the end of the Women's 6 Nations as the Red Roses won the title again. And, they review a 'disgraceful' defeat for Bristol in the Prem as Pat Lam's side conceded over 90 points.***Allianz Future Fund | Allianz Insurance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Why did the RFU back Borthwick?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2026 59:00


    Despite England having their worst ever men's 6 Nations campaign why has an RFU review backed Steve Borthwick in his role as head coach?Alfie, Alex and Will discuss the RFU's decision, what needs to change for England and why the review process if so secretive.Plus, they chat about whether Cornish Pirates will become a Prem club after they acquired funding from an American private equity group, the latest twists and turns in the race for the play-offs and Elgan joins them to look ahead to a grand slam decider in the Women's 6 Nations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Brilliant Bordeaux, but Bath bemused. Was French TV to blame?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 4, 2026 51:21


    Bordeaux and Leinster reached the Champions Cup final after defeating Bath and Toulon, respectively. The defending champions Bordeaux now have a chance to win back-to-back titles, while Leinster will hope to finally end their Champions Cup drought.But were Bath hard done by? It appeared that match officials were not shown replays for some high tackles. Was this the case?Is it a problem unique to matches broadcast in France? Or is it a wider issue that needs fixing? Plus, they discuss both semi-finals in detail, including Leo Cullen's bizarre, 6-minute, loaded answer in his press conference. And, they look ahead to a big weekend in the Prem.***Allianz Future Fund | Allianz Insurance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    BONUS: Can rugby survive its brain injury problem?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2026 47:28


    Shane Christie was one of the brightest rugby stars in New Zealand before suffering multiple concussions, leading to a brain injury that would slowly take everything from him. And his experience is far from unique. In this deeply personal account, David Walsh talks to Shane's former partner, Holly Parkes, to ask, What happened? What does Shane's story reveal about the sport he loved deeply? And can rugby survive the fallout? This is part one of a two-part special investigation into the crisis facing this global game. This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory***Allianz Future Fund | Allianz InsuranceGuest: Holly ParkesHost: David Walsh, chief sports writer, The Sunday TimesProducer: Sophie McNultyWe want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: Two friends, two suicides. How did rugby let this happen?Clips: Harlequins - YouTube. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    British & Irish Lions tour to France: No-brainer or an erosion of history?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2026 59:13


    The British & Irish Lions are exploring the possibility of touring Japan, Argentina or France. Is this a dangerous erosion of tradition? A shameless money grab? Or a brilliant thing to propel the Lions into a "different stratosphere"? And, what would it mean for the traditional tours to New Zealand, South Africa and Australia?Alfie, Alex and Will are in studio to discuss the future of the Lions and ask what do they want to be in the professional era?Elgan looks back on the latest round of the Women's 6 Nations and they discuss the latest action in Prem rugby and look ahead to Bath's trip to Bordeaux in the Champions Cup.***Allianz Future Fund | Allianz Insurance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Do the Prem's blowouts challenge its franchise future?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2026 60:06


    It was a week of contrasts in both the Prem and Women's 6 Nations.In the Gallagher Prem the league continues to attract new investment but Sale were humiliated at home on Sunday, whilst Gloucester, Newcastle and Harlequins also suffered heavy defeats. Was that down to a lack of jeopardy due to no relegation? Or other factors?Scotland v England at Murrayfield set a new record attendance for a standalone women's sporting event north of the border. But, on the pitch are the sides further apart than ever after England's thumping win? When will the Red Roses next lose?Plus, Joe Launchbury chats to Alfie & Will after he announced he would retire from rugby at the end of the season.***Allianz Future Fund | Allianz Insurance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    England v France: which Champions Cup quarter-final was better?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2026 39:59


    Alfie Reynolds, Elgan Alderman and Charlie Morgan look back on the Champions Cup quarter-finals.They ask which was better...Bath and Northampton's epic high-scoring tussle at The Rec? Or the heavyweight clash between Bordeaux and Toulouse?Was Henry Pollock unlucky to be shown a yellow card so late in the contest? And, despite defeat, will Northampton be confident of getting revenge in the Prem final?Are Leinster going under the radar and could they actually win the Champions Cup this season?And, the boys look back on the opening round of the Women's 6 Nations as the Red Roses made it 34 wins in a row!***Allianz Future Fund | Allianz Insurance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Are Toulouse and Bordeaux the greatest club sides in the world?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 6, 2026 52:48


    The last-16 of the Champions Cup delivered! Following an exciting weekend Alfie Reynolds, Elgan Alderman, Alex Lowe and Mark Palmer look back on the action.They chat about the competition finally bursting into life with some excellent matches including, the Stormers narrow defeat to Toulon and Bath getting past Saracens.Elgan was in France to see Toulouse and Bordeaux dismantle Bristol and Leicester and asks if anyone can stop the two giants of French rugby?Mark reflects on the fortunes of Edinburgh and Glasgow and whether Franco Smith's team could really go all the way and actually win the tournament?Plus, what now for the Red Roses? Seven months on from winning their home World Cup, they begin their 6 Nations campaign on Saturday, aiming to win an 8th straight title!***Allianz Future Fund | Allianz Insurance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Parling's push: love it or hate it?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2026 53:36


    Following a trio of showpiece matches at big stadiums in the Gallagher Prem Alfie, Will and Charlie are back in studio to review the action.They discuss Geoff Parling's fiery altercation with broadcaster TNT before Gloucester vs Leicester and ask was the head coach right or wrong? And, does it summarise rugby's battle between traditionalists and those trying to modernise the game?They also ask whether neutral semi-finals would be a good thing or damaging to the jeopardy in the season.Castres tight-head prop, and Times columnist, Will Collier joins the boys to look ahead to the Champions Cup last-16. How important is an away win this weekend for the competition? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Can Dyson's dosh build a dynasty at Bath?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 23, 2026 60:55


    Sir James Dyson has become a 50% shareholder at Bath, so what does that mean for the club and for English domestic rugby?Will it cement the clubs place at the top of the PREM for years to come? And it will it encourage further investment into the league?Alfie Reynolds is joined by Alex Lowe, Charlie Morgan and Will Kelleher to answer all those questions and chat about the return of the Prem. With Saracens' defeat is it now 5 teams vying for a spot in the top 4? Why are Harlequins lacking such an identity? And, was Chris Boyd at The Stoop having started in his new role with Gloucester? 'Detective Charlie' has the answer.Plus, Will interviews Gloucester and England centre Seb Atkinson.***Allianz Future Fund | Allianz Insurance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    An all-time great 6 Nations produces an ending for the ages

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 15, 2026 62:15


    The 2026 6 Nations is over!One of the great championships went down to the final kick of the final match. Thomas Ramos knocked over a penalty to break English hearts and deny Ireland the title.The morning after the events in Paris, Alex Lowe, Charlie Morgan and Will Kelleher join Alfie Reynolds to look back on an incredible finale and the tournament as a whole.Where on earth has that England performance been? Does it soften the blow of England's worst ever 6 Nations campaign?France are the champions but did they limp over the finish line? Did Scotland have a successful campaign or should they be disappointed by not winning four matches? And how significant a moment was Wales' win against Italy on the final weekend? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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