Rugby Direct: Recent Episodes
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Every week, Rugby Direct gives you the lowdown on all you need to know from the rugby world.
Whether it's the All Blacks, Black Ferns, NPC, Farah Palmer Cup, or just what's going down at the club grounds, we have you covered on your home for all things rugby.
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The All Blacks are up and running in South Africa, but was their win over the Stormers convincing enough?
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier join us from Durban to break down the tour opener, unpack the sweeping changes for the Sharks match, and discuss the growing injury toll after Billy Proctor became the second All Black to head home.
Plus, is it finally time to pick up the phone and call Richie Mo'unga? The boys tackle all the big talking points.
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On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier touch down in Cape Town and waste no time diving into the first team naming of the All Blacks' South African tour.
What can we read into Dave Rennie's selections to face the Stormers on Saturday morning? The boys break down the key talking points, potential selection clues, and what this side could tell us about the weeks ahead as the All Blacks face their latest challenge in one of rugby's toughest environments.
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Rugby Direct is back as Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down the All Blacks' 44-man squad named for South Africa and the United States on the inaugural Rugby's Greatest Rivalry Tour.
All Blacks coach Dave Rennie and selectors Sir Graham Henry and Neil Barnes have retained all 34 players from the Nations Championship Southern Series squad, while adding a further 10 players for the demanding seven-week campaign.
With opportunities rewarded and tough calls made, who are the unlucky names to miss out? The boys dissect the selections, debate the biggest talking points, and look at what the expanded squad means for the All Blacks' ambitions abroad.
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Rugby Direct is back with Elliott Smith and Liam Napier, joined in studio by Blues loose forward Cameron Suafoa for an inspiring and candid conversation.
Suafoa opens up on one of the toughest periods of his life and career after being diagnosed with a rare sarcoma, detailing the battle that followed, the support that helped him through, and the perspective he has gained from the experience.
He also reflects on his return to professional rugby, his journey back to the Blues, and living with a terminal cancer diagnosis.
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Rugby Direct is back as Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down the All Blacks’ emphatic 40-21 win over Ireland, extending their remarkable unbeaten streak at Eden Park. The boys review a perfect opening block of the Nations Championship, with the All Blacks going three from three, and assess the key performances, talking points, and big takeaways from the series.
They also look ahead to the next major milestone on the road to South Africa, analysing what changes Dave Rennie could make when he names his 44-man squad on Monday. Who’s played their way in, who’s under pressure, and what does the next chapter of the All Blacks’ campaign look like? It’s all covered on the latest episode of Rugby Direct.
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Rugby Direct is back as Elliott Smith and Liam Napier discuss the upcoming clash between the All Blacks and Ireland.
Dave Rennie has named his side for this weekend's highly anticipated test with a number of key reinforcements added to strengthen the All Blacks' front line. Have the right calls been made? Who are the big winners and losers from selection?
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Rugby Direct is back as Elliott Smith and Liam Napier dissect the All Blacks' far-from-convincing 47-17 victory over Italy in Wellington. Despite the comfortable scoreline, questions remain about the performance, selections, and overall direction of the side after two tests under Dave Rennie.
The boys also debate one of the biggest talking points heading into this weekend: can the All Blacks extend their remarkable unbeaten run at Eden Park when they face Ireland, or are the visitors primed to snap one of rugby's most iconic streaks?
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On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down the All Blacks' five changes for Saturday's test against Italy and ask the big question: has Dave Rennie gone too far with his selections?
The boys also look ahead to the second test of 2026, discussing what the changes mean for the All Blacks and what fans can expect when they take the field this weekend.
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On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier dissect the All Blacks' winning start to the Dave Rennie era after their victory over France in Christchurch.
What impressed most? Where are the areas for improvement?
Plus, the lads cast an eye around the rugby world to break down the biggest results, standout performers and key talking points from a blockbuster weekend of international action.
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On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down Dave Rennie's first All Blacks team naming ahead of the test against France.
Has Rennie got the big calls right?
With Ruben Love at No. 10, Luke Jacobson wearing the seven jersey, and Damian McKenzie at fullback, the boys debate the key selections, the biggest surprises, and what it all means for the All Blacks moving forward.
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On the latest episode of Rugby Direct with Elliott Smith and Liam Napier, the boys are in Christchurch counting down to the first All Blacks test under Dave Rennie.
Who will make his first 23? Plus the ANZAC Day Bledisloe is locked in, is this a good thing for rugby or not?
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On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down Dave Rennie’s first All Blacks squad - who’s in, who’s new, and who can feel unlucky to miss out.
The boys also reflect on a one-sided Super Rugby Pacific final, with the Hurricanes delivering a dominant performance to claim the title.
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On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier count down to the Super Rugby Pacific final – the teams are locked in, but who’s lifting the trophy on Saturday night?
The boys also give their predictions for the All Blacks squad ahead of Monday’s announcement... who will make the cut under Dave Rennie?
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On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down a pair of one-sided Super Rugby Pacific semi-finals and what they mean heading into the big dance.
With both the Hurricanes and Chiefs dominant in their respective match-ups, the boys assess where the final might be won and lost — and crucially, who deserves to go in as favourites.
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On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier dive headfirst into the business end of the Super Rugby Pacific season, previewing the upcoming semi-finals and breaking down who’s best positioned to book a spot in the big dance.
They run the ruler over each matchup, analyse the key battles across the park, and assess the form, fitness, and firepower that could decide who moves that one step closer to the title.
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On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier react to a major coaching coup for New Zealand Rugby, with Tony Brown signing on as an All Blacks assistant coach from 2028.
The boys also turn their attention to the Super Rugby Pacific semi-finals - can anyone stop the Cane train as the business end of the season heats up?
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On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier dive headfirst into the business end of the Super Rugby Pacific season, breaking down all the key matchups as the playoffs get underway.
Plus, Super Rugby Pacific CEO Jack Mesley joins the podcast for an in-depth conversation about the future of the competition.
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On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down a blockbuster playoff weekend as the race for the title heats up.
With the finals now locked in, who are the genuine favourites and which side could swoop in late and steal the win?
Plus, they dig into the latest on rising star Fehi Fineanganofo – is he staying put?
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A big-name guest on Rugby Direct this week, as Elliott Smith and Liam Napier were joined in studio by the highly influential player agent Bruce Sharrock.
The trio tackle the biggest issues facing New Zealand rugby – the fight against league, where the game is heading, and what must change if rugby is to remain king.
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Big news on Rugby Direct!
Elliott Smith and Liam Napier discuss the news the Crusaders are set to usher in a new head coach for 2027 – a story broken by Napier himself.
Plus, it’s the final round of Super Rugby Pacific, so the lads run the ruler over every matchup, including the headline debate: resting the stars – smart management or a buzzkill for fans?
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On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down the Crusaders keeping their hopes of a home playoff alive, while the Hurricanes lock up top spot and secure home advantage throughout the postseason.
Plus, the boys look ahead to the future of Super Rugby — could a return to the conference system be on the cards in 2027?
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On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier look ahead to the penultimate round of Super Rugby Pacific — can we expect any upsets as the playoffs loom?
The boys also dive into the latest confirmed departures among Kiwi Super Rugby players and ask the big question: is New Zealand rugby’s middle tier starting to be exposed?
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On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down the Super Rugby run home — with the top two all but locked in, can anyone stop the red-hot Hurricanes?
Plus, the future of rising star Fehi Fineanganofo — is there a genuine chance he stays in New Zealand and pushes for All Blacks honours?
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On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier react to Dave Rennie fronting the media for the first time since he took charge of the All Blacks.
They also unpack the surprise return of Sir Graham Henry as a selector, and look ahead to a crucial round 14 of Super Rugby Pacific.
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In this special episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier are joined in studio by the new New Zealand Rugby CEO Steve Lancaster.
The trio dive into the game’s biggest talking points - from governance and the future of Super Rugby to player pathways and the challenges shaping rugby in Aotearoa.
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On this week’s episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down all the biggest talking points from Round 13.
Another All Black is set to head offshore at season’s end, NZ Rugby digs in on its stance around Mo’unga and Frizell returning via the NPC, and the pressure mounts on Moana Pasifika — is there still time to turn it around?
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On this week’s episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier delve into the big breaking news: the appointment of Steve Lancaster as NZ Rugby’s new CEO. The boys give their first reaction and unpack what the appointment means for the game.
There’s also a cause for concern for the Hurricanes with Cam Roigard sidelined – is the ‘Cain Train’ starting to derail?
Plus, they open up the mailbag and tackle your questions.
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On this week’s episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier dissect round 12 of Super Rugby.
The top three are pulling clear - but who’s best placed to grab the final three playoff spots as the race tightens?
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On this week’s episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down the Christchurch Super Round – what worked, what didn’t, and whether it could help revive Super Rugby.
Plus, they preview round 12 of the competition and debate the return of the ANZAC Day Bledisloe Cup – is it a winner or a risk worth taking?
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On this week’s episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier were joined by Hurricanes co-owner Malcolm Gillies for a wide-ranging chat about Super Rugby Pacific, including the growing challenges surround team ownership in the competition.
The boys also look ahead to the highly anticipated Super Round, set to play out this weekend at Christchurch’s brand new One NZ Stadium at Te Kaha.
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On this week’s episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier rip into a massive Round 10.
The Hurricanes’ title charge takes a serious hit after a stumbling loss to the Chiefs, the Black Ferns flex their muscle with a statement win over Canada, and there’s no shortage of other talking points across the rugby landscape.
Don’t miss the latest episode of Rugby Direct.
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On this week’s episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier delve into the uncertain future of Moana Pasifika and what their potential exit could mean for Super Rugby as a whole. How would the competition be reshaped if they were to walk away?
The boys also preview Round 10 of Super Rugby Pacific, before opening the mailbag to pick their first All Blacks XV of the 2026 season.
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On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier unpack all the fallout from Round 9 of Super Rugby Pacific.
The boys break down the biggest talking points from the weekend - including the big question of whether anyone can slow down the red‑hot Hurricanes.
They also review the Black Ferns’ opening win of their 2026 campaign and the Crusaders officially turn the page on a storied past - ushering in a new era at their new stadium by retiring the famous horses.
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On the latest Rugby Direct podcast, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier discuss a busy post-Easter weekend of news in the rugby world, with former All Black Shannon Frizell returning home and New Zealand Rugby closing in on a high performance director announcement.
We also look back at a truncated round eight of Super Rugby and ahead to a full slate in round nine of the competition, with a particular focus on the top of the table Hurricanes and Blues match.
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On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier unpack the reaction and wider implications of Gregor Paul’s Ardie Savea column published in the New Zealand Herald, sparking debate across the rugby landscape.
The duo also cast an eye ahead to a notably light Round 8 of Super Rugby Pacific, discussing what it means for teams and fans alike as the competition only has three games.
Plus, there’s time for a moment of reflection as they farewell the Crusaders’ iconic 'temporary' home stadium.
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On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier dive into all the fallout from Round 7 of Super Rugby Pacific.
The boys break down the biggest talking points from the weekend — including whether anyone can stop the red‑hot Hurricanes — before going head‑to‑head on who should be the next All Blacks captain.
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On today’s episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and producer Mark Kelly break down the newly released 2026 NPC schedule.
The duo also preview Round 7 of Super Rugby Pacific, before Elliott sits down with Blues fullback Peyton Spencer for an in‑depth chat.
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On the latest Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier return for an emergency episode breaking down the major news out of New Zealand Rugby.
They discuss the newly unveiled coaching team of All Blacks coach Dave Rennie, which features All Blacks great and current Moana Pasifika coach Tana Umaga, and Jason Ryan as the only member carried over from Scott Robertson’s tenure.
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On this week’s episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Nick Bewley discuss how the cream is rising to the top of Super Rugby Pacific.
With two months still to play, they debate whether any teams outside the top six can mount a genuine challenge, before reviewing all the action from Round Six.
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On the latest Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier return on the latest Rugby Direct to preview Round 6 of Super Rugby Pacific.
The boys dive into Clark Laidlaw’s re-signing with the Hurricanes through to the end of next season and wrap up the Six Nations with a look back at the final round.
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On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier discuss suggestions Tana Umaga is a contender for an All Blacks coaching role under Dave Rennie.
They also delve into the reports of punches being thrown at a Crusaders training session, and check out the mailbag to answer questions from listeners.
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On the latest Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down a dramatic Round 4 of Super Rugby Pacific — a weekend where the Crusaders were the only Kiwi side to fall. Are the Chiefs and Hurricanes emerging as the teams to beat? Plus, we bring you the latest on who Dave Rennie is eyeing for his All Blacks assistant coaching group.
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On the latest Rugby direct Elliott Smith and Liam Napier discuss the announcement of the new All Blacks coach Dave Rennie. Liam shares new details on the potential make up of the coaching group and Elliott believes its time to move on from Scott Barrett as the captain. Also, where to now for Jamie Joseph.
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Elliott Smith breaks down the breaking news that Dave Rennie has been confirmed as All Blacks coach, succeeding Scott Robertson.
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On the latest Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Nick Bewley review round three of Super Rugby pacific, with only one New Zealand side winning over the weekend, what went wrong for the rest of them. We dive into the good, the bad and the ugly of it all.
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On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Nick Bewley preview the third round of Super Rugby Pacific.
They also discuss the latest changes to the NZ Rugby high performance environment and how it could change the game across New Zealand.
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On this week’s episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Nick Bewley review round two of Super Rugby Pacific, The Brumbies thump the Crusaders, What's going wrong for the defending champs?
Also, the boys review the latest matches out of the 6 nations, and could Stephen Larkham be a smokey to be part of the next All Black coaching staff?
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On this week’s episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Nick Bewley preview round two of Super Rugby Pacific. They also discuss Dalton Papali’i’s move to the French Top 14 side Castres Olympique and Leicester Fainga'anuku being dropped to the bench.
And for the first time, the boys dive into the mailbag.
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On the latest Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier review round one of Super Rugby Pacific who shone who didn't and who has the most to work on as we head into round two of the competition.
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On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier are back to discuss the team lineups for the opening round of Super Rugby Pacific.
They also discuss their Super Rugby fantasy lineups for the opening weekend and take a look at the latest developments in the Blues replacement coach saga.
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On the latest edition of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier preview the Super Rugby season - who will be the big movers and who is likely to be spat out the back? We give our predictions for winners and circle a few players who might have a breakout season.
We also cover the latest in the All Blacks coaching race, the Six Nations underway and cast an eye over the Rugby World Cup schedule for 2027.
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On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier are back to discuss the fallout around Scott Robertson's departure from the All Blacks, the criteria NZ Rugby has set for coaching applicants, and who the contenders are in what looks to be a small-field race.
We also discuss Vern Cotter being ruled out of said race by taking on the Queensland Reds job from next year.
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The New Zealand Rugby Union has confirmed the news they have parted ways with All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson just 2 years in to his 4-year contract.
Following an in-depth review of the 2025 season, NZR Chair David Kirk confirmed the trajectory of the team is not where it needs to be in the current Rugby World Cup cycle and the search for a new head coach will start immediately.
Newstalk ZB rugby editor Elliott Smith and New Zealand Herald rugby writer Gregor Paul unpack today's announcement.
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In the wake of a scathing internal review on the All Blacks coaching squad, pressure is mounting on NZR to make changes as players revolt.
Elliott Smith and Liam Napier discuss the breaking news.
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On the final Rugby Direct for the year, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier return from Europe and some time away to review the All Blacks' season - what needs work, what went right and what are the big fixes required ahead of 2026.
We also look at the Rugby World Cup draw for 2027, assess the state of New Zealand Rugby as a whole and the big issues confronting the game over the Christmas break.
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On the latest Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier assess the All Blacks side named to face Wales and whether it's a missed opportunity on the selection front or if banking a win is the most important thing for Scott Robertson's men.
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On the latest Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier check in from Cardiff for a post-mortem to the All Blacks' humbling defeat to England - where is this All Blacks side at, are they stagnant or going backwards and does there need to be a re-assessment of the side's coaching make-up in the wake of the third defeat of the year.
We also check in on the other results of the weekend, as well as predict how the All Blacks might line-up against Wales this weekend in Cardiff.
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On the latest Rugby Direct from London, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier review the two sides named for Sunday morning's test between the All Blacks and England.
We discuss the key selections including moving Wallace Sititi to the bench and whether it will be enough to counter the 'Pom Squad' named by Steve Borthwick.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier have moved on to London but first they need to assess the win over Scotland through both a glass half full and glass half empty approach.
We investigate what changes could be made for the test against England and also look ahead to Twickenham - is the hosts' 9 game winning streak something to fear?
And we take a look around the rest of the rugby world with a big weekend of matches in the bank.
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On the latest Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier check in from Edinburgh to review the All Blacks side named to face Scotland on Sunday morning and their predictions for how the match will unfold
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On the latest edition of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier wrap up the All Blacks win over Ireland at Soldier Field and analyse the efforts of the All Blacks' bench in sealing the victory, while also pondering the success of the venture overall.
We also look ahead to this weekend's match at Murrayfield and what to expect.
Also, we look at the other games of the weekend and update the search for the new NZR CEO.
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On Rugby Direct this week, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier are in Chicago as they analyse the All Blacks side named to face Ireland on Sunday morning and how they might look to diffuse the Irish - and vice-versa. We also dig into the context of the tour as a whole, along with the impending departure of Jason Holland from the side's staff and we have a quick word on the NPC as Canterbury take the title. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Nick Bewley discuss the impending NPC final between Canterbury and Otago and determine where it might be won and lost, as well as contend with the fact the sides won't be able to call on All Blacks players for the big dance.
We also chat changes to the Super Rugby squad structure for next year and reveal where one of the country's most promising young talents will land at Super Rugby level, while we also discuss confirmation of the return of South Africa-New Zealand tours.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier review the All Blacks' end of year tour squad and the companion All Blacks XV squad for their own tour north and recap the breaking news around Patrick Tuipulotu being withdrawn through injury.
We also dig into the NPC quarter-finals, the latest out of R360 and Josh Jacomb's switch to the Highlanders - from 2027.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier mop up the All Blacks-Wallabies test in Perth and debate what can be read into the win and performance, and if certain players have solidified their selections as a result.
We also look ahead to the possible end of year tour squad and ask what is going on with secondary schools rugby in NZ?
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On the latest Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier are in Perth and react to the All Black and Wallabies sides named for Saturday night's Rugby Championship test in the city, as well as the latest news out of the R360 breakaway league.
Elliott and Liam also chat to All Blacks assistant coach Jason Holland ahead of Saturday's match.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier review the opening Bledisloe Cup test for the All Blacks and assess what went right and wrong as well as whether criticism of referee Andrea Piardi is justified.
We also review the Black Ferns’ bronze medal win at the World Cup and assess where to next for the women’s programme and game.
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On the latest Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier assess the All Blacks' side named for the first Bledisloe Cup test at Eden Park, featuring the returns of Codie Taylor, Cam Roigard and Caleb Clarke to the run-on side.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Newstalk ZB's Canterbury rugby commentator Nick Bewley reflect on the Black Ferns being knocked out of the Women's World Cup in England at the hands of Canada and ask how it happened and whether the Black Ferns were prepared for what they were facing.
We also count down to the opening Bledisloe Cup test against the Wallabies as the All Blacks look to bounce back from the horror defeat to South Africa and we talk the Ranfurly Shield changing hands once again in the NPC.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier dive into the All Blacks' worst ever defeat - 43-10 to South Africa in Wellington - and ask what went wrong and perhaps more importantly, why lessons aren't being learned.
We debate everything from whether the coaching set-up is right to whether the All Blacks gave up in the last quarter against the Springboks.
We also wrap the Black Ferns' World Cup quarter-final win against a daring South Africa.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier wrap the All Blacks' win over the Springboks at Eden Park and pull apart how they managed to deny the Springboks and how they might approach the rematch in Wellington.
We also laud the Black Ferns' demolition of Ireland and celebrate - well, one of the hosts does - Canterbury winning the Ranfurly Shield off Southland.
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Elliott Smith and Liam Napier react to the All Blacks side named for South Africa at Eden Park on Saturday and offer a prediction on how the match will play out.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier get stuck into the big All Blacks-Springboks test at Eden Park this weekend, with the 'Boks aiming to end the All Blacks 50-match unbeaten record at Eden Park. We discuss the possible make-up of the All Blacks side and whether Leicester Fainga'anuku will make it in.
We also mark the sad passing of Shane Christie and whether rugby is doing enough around head contact, while we reflect another move for the Ranfurly Shield.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier pore over the All Blacks' defeat to Argentina in Buenos Aires and contemplate what went wrong and whether the issues in the All Blacks are now systemic - and how to fix them as the prospect of South Africa bears down on the All Blacks next week at Eden Park.
We also discuss the Black Ferns' opening World Cup, New Zealand Rugby renewing its broadcast partnership with Sky and a check-in on the NPC as the Ranfurly Shield changes hands.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down the All Blacks' Rugby Championship opener against Argentina and their ascension to the top of the world rankings despite an at times imperfect showing, and ask why the forwards are clicking but the back play appears clunky and whether changes might be in the offing for the second test.
And as the All Blacks move on to Buenos Aires for the second test, Liam catches up with All Blacks assistant coach Jason Holland to wrap up the first test and look ahead to the second.
We also delve into the Wallabies' shock win over South Africa in Johannesburg and cast an eye to the women's World Cup starting later this week.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier discuss Richie Mo'unga's impending return to New Zealand Rugby in 11 months time and what it means for the All Blacks, Crusaders and Canterbury.
We also preview the Rugby Championship starting this weekend, with a specific eye to the All Blacks and Argentina this weekend in Cordoba. We ask what success looks like in the Rugby Championship for the All Blacks this year and discuss the future of the Rugby Championship as it prepares to undergo some changes.
And we also hear from Argentina's Kiwi attack coach Kendrick Lynn ahead of the All Blacks test.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier digest and dissect the All Blacks' Rugby Championship squad with three new faces in an extended squad to travel to Argentina and beyond - we dig into the surprise selections, the recalls and everything in between.
We also wrap up the British and Irish Lions' tour of Australia and whether the Wallabies have taken a step forward, while we take a keen eye at the NPC.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier wrap the third test against France and review the series as a whole - what did we learn and which players were the big movers across the three matches? We also look ahead to the Rugby Championship and where the All Blacks must improve.
We also dig into the latest on the R360 saga, the opening test of the Lions series and plenty more in the rugby world.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier wrap up the All Blacks' big win over France in Wellington and analyse who stood out for the home team, before looking ahead to the third and final test in Hamilton.
We also ask whether the current Lions tour of Australia could be the worst in history, what David Kidwell might add to the Highlanders' coaching staff and assess the final Black Ferns hit out before the Rugby World Cup.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier take a look at the All Blacks' 31-27 win over France in Dunedin to open the year and discuss whether it was underwhelming or whether France's so-called 'B-team' deserve more respect than they'd been given.
We discuss the big key moments of the game, where it was won and what changes, both personnel and tactically wise, are required for game two in Wellington.
We also sweep up the world of rugby news and returning All Blacks second-five Jordie Barrett chats with Liam about his time in Leinster.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier count down to the opening All Blacks test of 2025 against France in Dunedin and speculate on what a couple of injury withdrawals might mean for the make up of the first test side.
We also assess what to expect from France across the series and if you can really prepare for a side with so few international caps between them.
We also dig into the opening British and Irish Lions game, the Maori All Blacks big win over Japan and Moana Pasifika's funding woes and how that might affect their future in Super Rugby
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This weekend we've got a bonus episode for you in the Rugby Direct feed - The new podcast 'Rivals' from Sir John Kirwan and Victor Matfield. Episodes are released every Thursday, and a perfect complement for Rugby Direct.
Follow the podcast on iHeartRadio, or wherever you listen to podcasts: Rivals | iHeart
The Wallabies refusing to release their top players for the British & Irish Lions’ tour games against Super Rugby teams... smart long game or a mistake?
This week on Rugby Rivals, Victor Matfield and Sir John Kirwan go head-to-head on:
– Joe Schmidt and Wallabies’ strategy
– Argentina's form vs. the Lions
– Damian McKenzie’s form, still world class or slipping?
– Razor’s All Blacks picks, and who missed out!
– Rassie’s bold youth call for the Springboks
New episodes weekly with top-tier rugby analysis from both sides of the globe. Hit subscribe for more, find the audio-only episodes on all podcast apps by searching for 'Rugby Rivals'!
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This week on Rugby Direct, it's a bumper edition of the podcast as Elliott Smith and Liam Napier wrap the first All Blacks squad of 2025 - who's in and who's out - and who should be there that isn't. Rugby Direct speaks to All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson and forwards coach Jason Ryan to dive into the key selections and their plans for 2025.
We also review the Super Rugby final as the Crusaders hoisted the trophy again and ask why the Chiefs are unable to convert their bridesmaid tag into a title.
And we look at former coach Ian Foster's new book - and Liam responds to being written about in the autobiography.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier wrap the Super Rugby semi-finals and assess the way the Crusaders and Chiefs were able to get there in contrasting fashion. We look ahead to this week's final and discuss who has more to gain or lose by winning this weekend.
We also select our prospective 35-man squads for the All Blacks test series against France, a week out from the real squad being named and drill down into who the new faces might be.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier react to the breaking news of Mark Robinson's impending departure as the chief executive of New Zealand and reflect on how he will be remembered and where to next.
We also wrap the week that was in a dramatic Super Rugby playoff round, with the Hurricanes gone and the Blues keeping their season alive but flipping the run to the trophy on its head.
We also examine the mooted R360 franchise concept and pay our respects to All Blacks great Stu Wilson.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier review the last round of the Super Rugby Pacific regular season and assess the top 6 sides left standing.
We review Moana Pasifika's breakout season and look over to Japan as Richie Mo'unga and Shannon Frizell taste further success over there.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier wrap up the penultimate round of Super Rugby Pacific - as the Chiefs make a statement against Moana Pasifika, the Hurricanes and Crusaders take contrasting wins with eight teams left standing in the playoff race.
We also dissect the Black Ferns' big win over the USA and assess the impact of the Sevens stars, offer some thoughts on the All Blacks mix and dish out some MVP votes.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier reflect on Ardie Savea's standout game that inspired Moana Pasifika to their first victory over the Blues in a compelling Super Rugby Round 14 fixture and whether the man should be All Blacks skipper, along with wrapping the rest of the round.
We also discuss the Black Ferns against Canada, the state of world sevens and we're also joined by injured Blues lock Sam Darry for a feature chat.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier review a big weekend of Super Rugby with the Chiefs storming back to beat the Crusaders in Christchurch to move clear at the top of the table, while the Blues continue their playoff charge with a win over the Drua in Fiji.
We also recap a bumper week for rugby news, with the Black Ferns and New Zealand Under-20 sides taking big wins, the British and Irish Lions squad to tour Australia is named and NZR post a big financial loss.
And recently retired Blues midfielder Bryce Heem joins the podcast for an extended chat to look back at his career.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Nick Bewley wrap up round 12 of Super Rugby Pacific, in which the Hurricanes made a major statement and the Blues and Moana Pasifika kept on the tail of the playoff chase.
We also discuss some major changes to the World Sevens Series and some big omissions from the first Black Ferns playing squad of the year.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier wrap the week in Super Rugby and ask the vital questions, like whether the 'Cane Train' is back on the tracks with a win over the Brumbies in Canberra, whether the Blues have run their race in 2025 and can anyone stop a Chiefs-Crusaders final.
We also delve into Portia Woodman-Wickliffe's return to the Black Ferns and whether she can be the catalyst for World Cup success.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier react to a busy week of news in the rugby world, including the breaking news of Portia Woodman-Wickliffe coming out of retirement to have a crack at the World Cup for the Black Ferns.
We also discuss Rieko Ioane's shock loan move to Leinster and how he might be welcomed by the Irish fans and teammates given his spat with Johnny Sexton and we discuss where to next for the Blues with Mark Tele'a's move to Japan after this season.
We also wrap the round of Super Rugby as the top six becomes increasingly murky.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith is joined by Gold Sport's Crusaders commentator Nick Bewley with Liam on sabbatical to dissect a busy weekend of action.
We discuss the Super Rugby Aupiki final, with the Blues defending their title before digging into the weekend of Super Rugby men's action that leaves the Crusaders top of the table and the Blues beginning to find some form.
We also discuss whether Joey Manu will land in Super Rugby and more.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier dive into the big topics of the week in rugby, beginning with Liam's quick trip to Suva to experience his first Drua home game and the Crusaders' drought-breaking win there, along with the other games in round 8 that included another win for Moana Pasifika and the Chiefs and Blues picking up victories.
We also discuss how the talent in NZ Rugby can be spread more widely, the Super Rugby Aupiki final this weekend and the doomed ANZAC Day Bledisloe Cup test concept in Perth.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier react to the breaking news around Damian McKenzie's re-signing and what the deal means for both himself and the All Blacks over the coming years.
We also look back at round seven of Super Rugby Pacific as Moana Pasifika pull off the upset of the season against the Crusaders, while the Hurricanes give the Waratahs a reality check and put the competition on notice.
We also delve into the thorny stadium saga in Auckland and the impact on rugby.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier react to the breaking news around Damian McKenzie's re-signing and what the deal means for both himself and the All Blacks over the coming years.
We also look back at round seven of Super Rugby Pacific as Moana Pasifika pull off the upset of the season against the Crusaders, while the Hurricanes give the Waratahs a reality check and put the competition on notice.
We also delve into the thorny stadium saga in Auckland and the impact on rugby.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier discuss the Crusaders' big win over the Blues - and dig further into just why the latter are struggling so bad in their title defence.
We wrap the rest of round 6 in Super Rugby and also pose a few questions around international eligibility as well as the prospect of who Ian Foster might pick for the combined Australia-NZ team he's picking to face the British and Irish Lions in July.
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On this special episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier are joined by NZR CEO Mark Robinson and All Blacks head coach Scott 'Razor' Robertson for an exclusive and extended interview.
They update us on all the big rugby issues and state of the game, including their stance on eligibility, broadcast and sponsorship, the upcoming international rugby calendar and what success looks like in 2025. Plus, what talent are catching their eyes in Super Rugby.
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On the latest Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier dive into round five of Super Rugby as the Blues lose again and the Chiefs continue their position at the top of the table.
We debate Du'Plessis Kirifi's incredible form and discuss where he is in the All Blacks pecking order, as well as the Six Nations wash-up from the end of the competition.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier wrap another compelling round of Super Rugby - and ask if it's time to panic at the Blues after another defeat in their title defence. We celebrate Moana Pasifika's stunning win over the Hurricanes, and are the Crusaders here to rescue New Zealand rugby again?
Super Rugby CEO Jack Mesley checks in for an update on the opening month - we also dig into the Dupont drama in the Six Nations, the Fijian Drua treatment while in New Zealand - and while their men's team may be in trouble, the Blues women are making a compelling case in Super Rugby Aupiki.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier review the latest round of Super Rugby as the Blues finally get on the board, the Chiefs continue their form and Moana Pasifika and the Highlanders play out an odd game in Albany.
We also look at the latest in broadcast negotiations for New Zealand Rugby, Chiefs coach Clayton McMillan's pending departure and who should replace him and the men's Sevens programme floundering.
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This week on Rugby Direct, with Liam away in Saudi Arabia, Elliott Smith is joined by Nick Bewley standing in to look back at week two of Super Rugby as the Chiefs assert their title favourites tag with a thumping win over the Crusaders and the Highlanders consign the defending champion Blues to another loss - we chat all of that and everything in between in Super Rugby.
We also preview Super Rugby Aupiki starting this weekend with Black Ferns legend Kendra Cocksedge, pay tribute to Michaela Brake after she claimed the World Series try-scoring record and run the rule over the Fantasy landscape.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier run their eye over the opening round of Super Rugby Pacific - is the competition officially 'back'.
We assess the Blues' surprise capitulation against the Chiefs and address the Crusaders' come from behind effort to dismiss the Hurricanes in Christchurch, as well as the other games in the opening round.
We also delve into the NZR/INEOS situation and look at the possible replacements for Warren Gatland as Wales' coach.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier are back in the studio for 2025 and not a moment too soon as we reflect on the major rugby issues over the summer break including Joe Schmidt's confirmed impending departure as Wallabies coach, Richie Mo'unga not returning to New Zealand Rugby as early as hoped, the Six Nations in full swing and the TJ Perenara haka developments.
We also preview the Super Rugby season, the likely contenders for the title and the big improvers ahead of Friday night's season start, as well as speak to competition CEO Jack Mesley.
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On Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier wrap up the 2024 All Blacks season and hand out some awards from the campaign and get out their red pens and mark the season that was.
We dig into the eligibility saga as it continues to rage around New Zealand rugby, ask whether Joe Schmidt will stay in charge of the Wallabies beyond the Lions series and also flag a potential job he could take up if not and give our thoughts on the Sevu Reece saga.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith (in Turin) and Liam Napier review the All Blacks' 1-point loss to France in Paris and how the defeat changes the complexion of the end of year tour. We also look ahead to the final test of the year against Italy and consider the likely make-up of the 23.
We also talk the news of Harry Plummer's impending departure from New Zealand Rugby, the continued noise about a F1/LIV Golf style rugby breakaway tournament and World Rugby Award nominees.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith in Paris and Liam Napier discuss the All Blacks' win over (now former) world number ones Ireland in Dublin - what it means in both the context of the tour and the year and how they managed to wear down Ireland. We also look ahead to the penultimate test of 2024 against France this weekend and ponder some selection headaches for the selectors.
We also wrap up the rest of the weekend in the end of year internationals and dive into the Super Rugby squads revealed today - the big surprises and transfers.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith in Dublin is joined by Liam Napier to reflect on the All Blacks' tight win over England at Twickenham and we break down the performance - the good and the bad.
We also look ahead to Ireland and the remainder of this weekend's test matches as the end of year internationals ramp up.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier review the All Blacks win over Japan in Yokohama and look ahead to Sunday morning's big test against England, we also review the NPC final and sit down with New Zealand Rugby chief executive Mark Robinson in London to chat some of the burning issues in the sport.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith dials in from Tokyo to run through with Liam Napier the All Blacks team named for Saturday's test against Japan in Yokohama and what it means for the rest of the tour.
We also preview the NPC final, discuss Rugby Sevens being given the heave-ho from the pared-back 2026 Commonwealth Games and big moves in the commercial arm of NZ Rugby.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier recap all the big news of the rugby world from the last fortnight - beginning with the All Blacks and All Blacks XV squads selected for tours north - who were the unlucky ones that missed out and who can count themselves lucky to be there?
We review the Black Ferns' WXV1 campaign and assess their stocks a year out from the Rugby World Cup in England, as well as look at the NPC with the final four now set.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier review the second Bledisloe Cup test in Wellington with the All Blacks beating Australia and ending the 'Capital Curse'.
We review the Rugby Championship as a whole, dish up some awards and lock ahead to the end of year tour and what the big calls the ABs selectors will have to make.
We also ask if there is a Crusaders bias in the All Blacks and cover off some interesting news out of Johnny Sexton's new book.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier review the Bledisloe Cup opener in Sydney - and how the All Blacks nearly let what was heading for a comfortable win turn into a nervy defeat.
We again try to answer what is going wrong in the last 20 minutes of test matches and what changes might be in the offing for Wellington.
We run through a controversial ANZAC rugby side of the professional era, as well as look back at Sam Cane's test career ahead of his probable 100th match this weekend.
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Elliott Smith and Liam Napier are in Sydney this week for the opening Bledisloe Cup and in a crossover special, stopped by the ESPN Scrum Reset podcast studios to count down to Saturday’s match with Aussie rugby journos Sam Bruce and Christy Doran.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier are in Sydney and celebrate touching down by jumping straight into a podcast.
They discuss the Bledisloe Cup test this weekend between the Wallabies and All Blacks and whether the Australians have a show, and what the All Blacks strategy is around blooding new talent.
Also on the podcast, a look back at the Black Ferns v England, Super Rugby format changes and the Ranfurly Shield stays in Tasman.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier assess another All Blacks' defeat to the Springboks, this time in Cape Town as opportunities go begging. We ask what are the reasons for the All Blacks being unable to put away the 'Boks and what is missing from the side at the moment.
We also dig into further information around a 2026 tour of South Africa by the All Blacks, the possible ANZAC Day match against the Wallabies and chat the Ranfurly Shield changing hands.
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This week on Rugby Direct, ZB's own Elliott Smith reviews the first All Blacks v Springboks test and unpacks what went wrong towards the second half the match.
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Elliott's landed in Johannesburg and he and Liam assess the stunning news that Leon MacDonald has quit the All Blacks coaching staff after just five tests.
Elliott and Liam also offer some thoughts on where the first test between the All Blacks and Springboks will be won and lost, as well as the latest in the NPC and FPC.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier discuss the All Blacks' comeback victory over Argentina at Eden Park - and whether or not the team is ready to face off against South Africa.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier review the All Blacks' stunning defeat against Argentina in Wellington and dig into how it happened and what needs to be changed for the rematch against Los Pumas at Eden Park this weekend. We also put some perspective into the reason behind so many empty seats at Sky Stadium.
We also pick through the highlights of the opening round of the NPC and Farah Palmer Cup, the Springboks win over the Wallabies and Twickenham's surprising name change.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier return from a week off to talk the Black Ferns Sevens' gold medal in Paris and how to try and solve the men's Sevens issues at the Olympics.
We dig into the All Blacks squad for the Rugby Championship ahead of this weekend's test against Argentina, debate some contract news for the All Blacks and ask the question... is Antoine Dupont the GOAT? Plus plenty more.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier discuss Ardie Savea's bombshell Super Rugby switch from the Hurricanes to Moana Pasifika and the implications for him as well as both franchises before we dig into the All Blacks third test of the year against Fiji in San Diego.
We also rank the All Blacks halfbacks, discuss the chances of gold medals for the sevens sides at the Olympics and whether the NZ U20s finishing third is a positive result, as well as an assessment of Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt and Japan coach Eddie Jones' starts to their tenures.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier wrap the second test against England and discuss the All Blacks' game plan - or seeming lack thereof, as well as the impact of Beauden Barrett, line-out struggles and how they might line up against Fiji in San Diego.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier assess the first All Blacks' test of the 'new era' and a tight win over England under the roof in Dunedin. We assess who stood out and where the improvements will need to be made for the second test in Auckland on Saturday.
We also run the rule over the other test matches around the globe over the weekend and reveal some battle scars of our own from Dunedin.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier put forward their arguments for the first All Blacks team of the year and how the first test against England will be won and lost.
We also hear from England coach Steve Borthwick and assess the standouts from the Maori All Blacks first hitout under new coach Ross Filipo.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier are in Christchurch following the All Blacks squad announcement and reflect on the five new names in the squad of 32, as well as the big omissions from the group including Hoskins Sotutu and Ruben Love.
We also hear from All Blacks forwards coach Jason Ryan and uncapped prop Pasilio Tosi.
We also dig into a dominant Blues performance in the Super Rugby final against the Chiefs, that ended their 24 year drought.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier review the Super Rugby semi-finals as the Blues and Chiefs advance to Saturday night's decider, at the expense of the Brumbies and top-seeded Hurricanes.
We also chat with Kevin Malloy, the Super Rugby Pacific board chair to review the season and discuss the future shape of the competition.
And with the All Blacks squad days away from being named, we give our respective 32-man squads we think will be named next week.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier assess the four Super Rugby quarter-finals from the weekend and say farewell to the Rebels (for good) and the Highlanders, Drua and Reds for this season.
We also look ahead to the semis and assess what Patrick Tuipulotu's injury means for the All Blacks this year, as well as reflect on the departure of Akira Ioane to Japan after this season.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier wrap a big week of rugby, beginning with the final round of the Super Rugby regular season and the quarter-finalists being set and the Crusaders missing the top 8 for the first time since 2015.
We also dig deep into the news the Melbourne Rebels will be axed at the conclusion of their current campaign, while NZR's governance has come and gone and there are still a lot of questions left unanswered.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier count down to the crunch governance vote that will shape New Zealand Rugby, assess the fortunes of the Black Ferns and wrap up the penultimate round of Super Rugby.
We also dive into the new reports around the Springboks-All Blacks tours from 2026 and look back at a wild week for Rob Penney.
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Elliott and Liam catch up with legendary All Blacks halfback Aaron Smith on a range of topics after the completion of his first season playing for Japanese club Toyota Verblitz.
We reflect on Aaron's All Blacks career, his first season in Japan, the successors to him at halfback for the All Blacks, the continuing eligibility saga in New Zealand Rugby and the special plan he has for some of his jersey collection.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down the news around Sam Cane's departure from New Zealand Rugby after this year and who leads the race to be both captain and openside flanker for the All Blacks in 2024.
We dig into the weekend that was in Super Rugby, with the Blues taking another step towards top seeding and we analyse a shock Black Ferns defeat to Canada.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier run through the reaction from their interview with Chris Lendrum, specifically the desire to bring Richie Mo'unga back to new Zealand Rugby sooner rather than later.
We dig into the Blues going top of the ladder after denying the Hurricanes at Eden Park, as well as more questions on the Crusaders front after the Highlanders taught them a lesson or two under the roof in Dunedin.
We also dig into the Black Ferns and New Zealand under-20s posting impressive victories.
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On a special edition of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier catch up with New Zealand Rugby's general manager - professional rugby and performance Chris Lendrum, canvassing a range of rugby topics.
We delve into how his job has changed over time, sabbaticals and whether contracting is working the right way for New Zealand rugby, whether players will be selected from offshore in the next while, the future of Super Rugby and NPC, the Olympics and plenty more across nearly an hour.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott and Liam discuss the latest in Super Rugby as the Hurricanes bounce back, the Blues find their way late against the Rebels and the Crusaders sink again, this time to the Reds.
We also dig into talk of the Qataris investing into rugby's new Nations Cup and ponder the future of the Melbourne Rebels following another twist in the sorry saga.
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On Rugby Direct this week, Elliott and Liam debate whether the Hurricanes are still the Super Rugby favourites after their loss to the Brumbies, or whether the Blues now have claims to that title.
The Crusaders are back... or so Elliott claims, while we dive in-depth to talk about the Highlanders vs Force.
Liam also breaks some news around the Melbourne Rebels' future and debate whether an ANZAC Day Bledisloe Cup test would work.
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This week on Rugby Direct, we review the round that was in Super Rugby as the Hurricanes and Blues continue to soar and the Crusaders and Highlanders flop towards the bottom of the ladder after heavy defeats.
Liam and Elliott put their selection hats on and pick 33-man All Blacks squads for the July tests, if they were to be named this week.
We also dig a little deeper on the Crusaders' recruitment and future proofing, as well as discussing the union switch of Joey Manu and if he'll find success in the 15-man game.
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On the latest episode, Elliott and Liam ask... can anyone stop the Hurricanes this year? They review their win over the Chiefs as well as the other sometimes confounding results of week eight of Super Rugby Pacific.
We also dive into the Super Rugby Aupiki final and ask about the future of the competition, as well as a whip around of the week's other big news including the Club World Cup on the verge of confirmation, coaching movements abound and the news of Blues forward Cameron Suafoa's cancer battle.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott and Liam review big wins for the Blues and Chiefs in Super Rugby Pacific, discuss the impending departures of Fergus Burky and possibly Josh Moorby and hail the success of the All Blacks Sevens and Black Ferns Sevens after winning the prestigious Hong Kong Sevens.
We also catch up with Black Ferns 15s assistant coach Steve Jackson to talk the Aupiki season to date and what he and the fellow coaches are looking for ahead of their first squad being named later this month.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott and Liam discuss the big breaking news that former All Blacks scrum doctor Mike Cron is joining Joe Schmidt's Wallabies coach and ask whether NZ Rugby should be worried.
We dig into Cam Roigard's likely lengthy sidelining through a knee injury and ask whether the Crusaders are back.
And we break down the governance issues plaguing NZR.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier dive into round five of Super Rugby Pacific as the Hurricanes continue to surge, the Chiefs and Blues bank important wins and the Crusaders continue to crumble.
All Blacks legend Jeff Wilson also stops by for a chat to review the opening month and a half while we also talk the prospect of Sam Whitelock returning to the All Blacks in 2024 out of France.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier review the fourth round of Super Rugby Pacific, which has seen the Hurricanes continue their unbeaten run and the Crusaders continue their winless streak.
We review the Six Nations and cast an eye to the England tour of New Zealand later this year and where their strengths might lie.
And we discuss the news of the late Billy Guyton's CTE diagnosis and ask... where to for rugby?
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier take a look at the Hurricanes being unbeaten in Super Rugby Pacific and the Crusaders yet to nab a win, Ireland lose in the Six Nations and Italy wins away at home for the first time in a long time.
We also stick our oar into the Hurricanes Poua haka saga which has dominated headlines for the past week.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott and Liam review Super Round in Melbourne, with three teams still unbeaten after the opening two weeks of the competition.
We ask if the Crusaders decline is anything other than to be expected and also discuss the news the Jaguares may be returning to Super Rugby Pacific after a five-year absence.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier review the opening round of Super Rugby Pacific and discuss the so-called mouth-guard controversy which has become a major talking point from the first weekend.
We also take a look at the Six Nations.
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On this special edition of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier sit down with New Zealand Rugby chief executive Mark Robinson to discuss a wide range of issues facing rugby, including the Shape of the Game, Super Rugby's future, NRL rivalry, the provincial unions, Rugby Championship's future, women's rugby and more.
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On the first Rugby Direct for 2024, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier begin by looking back at a mega off-season of rugby news - from Joe Schmidt's appointment to the Wallabies to the glut of rugby documentaries and the start of Six Nations.
We also look ahead to the Super Rugby Pacific season starting Friday with a deep dive into every New Zealand side.
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In the final edition of Rugby Direct for 2023, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier reflect on Ian Foster's tenure as All Blacks coach, with the benefit of a few weeks having passed since the World Cup finishing.
We also look ahead to 2024 and Scott Robertson's first year in charge and what his biggest challenges will be in what could be up to 15 test matches in total.
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On the latest Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier reconvene three weeks on from the World Cup final - to talk the latest in rugby news including Rugby Australia chairman Hamish McLennan being dumped, a new specialist coach joins the Blues staff, Sam Cane takes an overseas sabbatical and Beauden Barrett eyes an earlier than expected return to New Zealand Rugby among others.
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On the latest (and final) Rugby Direct from Paris, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier review the Rugby World Cup final, won by South Africa 12-11 in Paris.
We break down the decider from the yellow and red cards, to TMO intervention to the actual rugby itself and whether it was a "good"final and showpiece for the game.
We break down Ian Foster's somewhat complicated legacy in charge of the All Blacks and where to next for him, as well as touch on the news out of Australia that Eddie Jones is out at Wallabies coach.
All that and an ode to the things we've lost/had stolen on tour, on Rugby Direct.
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On the latest edition of Rugby Direct, the scene is set for the World Cup final and Elliott Smith and Liam Napier dive into the two sides named by the All Blacks and South Africa for the big dance.
We talk the make-up of the sides and how we expect them to play as well as the emotion of the match, as well as the new World Rugby Awards nominations and some form of conclusion to the racism saga in the sport this week.
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On the latest Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier review the contrasting ways the All Blacks and Springboks punched their tickets to the Rugby World Cup final - the All Blacks comfortably, South Africa less so.
We talk about the wider media reaction to both games and whether it was fair, while we also discuss the impending departures of several key All Blacks players and staff and if that will have a role in RWC final week.
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On the latest Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier check in from Paris after the All Blacks name their team to face Argentina in the World Cup semi-finals, we review the changes and offer some predictions on how the two semis might play out.
We also chat about the latest in "Jones Gate", or "Eddie Gate" (take your pick) from Australia.
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On the latest edition of Rugby Direct, it's bonjour once against from Paris as we say Au Revoir to the Irish and the hosts France on a big 100th episode of Rugby Direct
Elliott Smith and Liam Napier review the most astonishing quarter-final weekend in Rugby World Cup history with the All Blacks marching into the semi-finals with a stunning win over Ireland.
We also take in the other three quarter-finals and ponder what the defeat for France might do for the interest levels here on the ground.
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On the midweek edition of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB ) and Liam Napier (NZ Herald) discuss the breaking news out of Paris that Mark Tele'a has been stood down for a breach of team protocol and won't appear in the Rugby World Cup quarter-final against Ireland.
We also analyse the team named by Ian Foster and his selectors and cast an eye over the other 3 RWC quarter-finals.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier convene post midnight to discuss Portugal's historic win over Fiji at the Rugby World Cup, before branching out into the All Blacks and Ireland quarter-final this weekend and where both teams are placed heading into it and if the All Blacks can stop a seemingly unstoppable Ireland.
Elliott and Liam each pick a combined All Blacks-Ireland XV, as well as discuss where the truth lies on the Scott Robertson saga.
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Elliott Smith and Liam Napier check in from Lyon to review the All Blacks side named to face Uruguay in their final RWC pool match (Live on Gold Sport and iHeart Radio).
We also take stock of the games to come this weekend and update French captain Antoine Dupont's superhuman return from injury.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier are in Lyon and assess the All Blacks' big win over Italy and how it reshapes the Rugby World Cup - if at all.
We also take stock of the Ranfurly Shield damage scandal story from back home, wonder if the Rugby World Cup should expand and discuss potential changes for the All Blacks' final pool game against Uruguay Friday morning.
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On this midweek edition of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier assess the All Blacks side named to face Italy in their crunch World Cup Pool A match in Lyon, as well as run the rule over the other major news of the World Cup in the week to date.
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Elliott Smith and Liam Napier jump on for Rugby Direct from Lyon, as the All Blacks take a backseat for a few days with the Rugby World Cup ramping up with two big pool games with major ramifications.
First we review the Wallabies almost certain pool play exit and where the sport goes to in Australia after their dismal showing, before jumping into the Ireland-South Africa blockbuster and discussing how the Irish were able to quell the reigning World Cup champions.
We also take a look at New Zealand's next match against Italy and make more possibly disastrous tipping predictions.
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On the latest edition of Rugby Direct, Elliott and Liam check in from Bordeaux - to discuss and update the midweek happenings at the tournament in France.
We review Ethan de Groot's suspension, the All Blacks finding a useful stat to guide them in their week off, the Springboks opting for a 7-1 bench against Ireland this week and Drew Mitchell coming off the long run against Eddie Jones.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott and Liam are in Toulouse to review the second week of the Rugby World Cup, including the All Blacks' win over Namibia, Ethan de Groot's red card and where it leaves New Zealand after two games.
We also review Fiji's impressive win over the Wallabies and wonder whether this is a death knell for Australian rugby.
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On the latest edition of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier recap the opening weekend of the World Cup - leading with a big focus on the All Blacks' 27-13 loss to France and how they were defeated...and why.
We delve into where to from here for the All Blacks and if they simply just don't have a seat at the top table currently in the sport.
We also review the other big games of the first week - including whether Fiji can feel hard done by losing to Wales in the final game of the opening weekend.
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Elliott and Liam react to the All Blacks' 23 selected for the tournament opener against France Saturday morning NZT and react to the news that Emoni Narawa is out of the tournament.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier count down to the opening weekend of the 2023 Rugby World Cup - looking at the All Blacks pool as well as the other three pools and picking who is likely to emerge from there into the quarters.
We also touch on our earliest and favourite Rugby World Cup memories and pick who will win the tournament.
Elliott and Liam also comb through NZR's governance review and what it means for the sport in the future and what tangible change might take place.
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Elliott Smith and Liam Napier are again in London for this week's Rugby Direct podcast, reviewing the All Blacks' worst-ever defeat in the Qatar Airways Cup match against South Africa.
What does this mean ahead of the World Cup and is it panic stations? We also update the Scott Barrett saga and review some of the weekend's other big warm-up matches including the Flying Fijians beating England at Twickenham.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott and Liam are in London - as the All Blacks count down to their final World Cup warm-up match against the Springboks.
We debate that match, the likely selections as well as what is being gained from the warm-up fixtures.
We talk the Owen Farrell saga, as well as the latest Eddie Jones and Rugby Australia hijinks as well as the ongoing question of the NPC.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier are in Hawke's Bay - reflecting on the Rugby World Cup squad announcement the night before as we debate the inclusions, the exclusions and the balance of the squad named by Ian Foster and his selectors to head to France.
We also look back at the second Bledisloe Cup test against the Wallabies in Dunedin, with the All Blacks mounting a major fightback to remain unbeaten in season 2023.
Elliott and Liam also touch on the NPC getting underway, the return of Warrenball (should we be worried) and much to Liam's annoyance, Elliott finds a reason to mention Canterbury schoolboy rugby.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier are in Christchurch after returning from Melbourne where the All Blacks decimated the Wallabies 38-7 to retain the Bledisloe Cup and Rugby Championship.
The boys review that game and how the All Blacks were forced to win differently than the last two performances, as well as look at Scott Barrett's performance and how the changes might fall for the Dunedin test on Saturday.
We then take a look at the Rugby World Cup squad announcement on August 7th and how this weekend might affect that, as well as which positions and players are the most likely to be still debated by the selectors.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott and Liam look ahead to the first Bledisloe Cup meeting of the year on Saturday and debate the selection conundrums facing the All Blacks selectors as well as gauging the possibilities of an Australian boil-over in Melbourne.
We also tackle the Farah Palmer Cup, the Rugby Championship's other match this weekend and whether rugby has managed to get the TMO sorted or not.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier review the All Blacks' big win over South Africa in what was somewhat of a statement performance from them ahead of the Rugby World Cup.
We discuss whether the blindside flanker debate is over in the wake of Shannon Frizell's form and how the second half performance might have told more of a story than the first.
We also review the Black Ferns' Pacific Four win, Johnny Sexton's three match ban and ponder what Eddie Jones meant when he said "Look out" to the All Blacks.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier review the first All Blacks' test of season 2023, the big win over Argentina in Mendoza, while we also touch on the controversial pitch invader saga post match and offer some thoughts around that.
We ask what's gone wrong with the under-20 programme, take a look at the Black Ferns' win over Canada and look ahead to the next assignment for the All Blacks - the Springboks on Saturday.
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This week on Rugby Direct, we're in wine country in Mendoza counting down to the first test of Rugby World Cup year for the All Blacks - an assignment against Argentina.
Elliott and Liam debate the likely starting side for the ABs and how the bench might look for the test as well.
Before we get to that though, we need to discuss the new Blues coaching appointment and world rugby's new competition, which is not being run by World Rugby.
We also cast our eyes over the Black Ferns and the New Zealand under-20s as well.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier wrap the Super Rugby final as the Crusaders ascended to Seventh Heaven with their seventh title in as many years.
We talk the major moments and controversies of the final, as well as how the narrative of the match has unfolded since fulltime.
Elliott and Liam also crown the prestigious second annual Rugby Direct Medal winner for Super Rugby.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott and Liam beam in from Te Awamutu to discuss the 36-man All Blacks squad named by head coach Ian Foster, who also drops by the podcast to offer his reasoning on some of the key selections, along with forwards coach Jason Ryan.
We discuss the Super Rugby semi-final match-up that has left us with a blockbuster grand final this week and we discuss the Hamish McLennan edition of the podcast which created a bit of controversy and our takeaways from how it's played out.
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On this special edition of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier are joined by Rugby Australia chairman Hamish McLennan for a feature-length interview covering plenty of issues around the game on both sides of the Tasman.
We talk about McLennan's idea for a Super Rugby draft, whether he's willing for Super Rugby to be run by an independent commission and if there's a real chance of the Rugby Championship moving. We also ask McLennan to assess his relationship with NZ Rugby powerbrokers, Eddie Jones and future Super Rugby expansion.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier review the Super Rugby quarter-finals and debate whether Ardie Savea scored that try and whether the referee made the right call.
We also zero in on the Chiefs' close-run game against the Reds and the Blues and Crusaders comfortable wins.
It's nearly time for the first All Blacks selection of the year as well and we pick the spots where the selectors will likely be spending their final days discussing ahead of the announcement on Sunday.
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This week on Rugby Direct, it's a bumper episode as we look at the Super Rugby regular season, a new rugby Knight and a couple of new coaches for the local franchises.
The Crusaders have appointed Rob Penney as head coach and the 'Canes Clark Laidlaw, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier discuss the appointments and how they might fit with each franchise from 2024.
Sir Wayne Smith has been knighted for services to rugby and he speaks with the podcast about the honour and we're joined by Sky Sport commentator and All Blacks great Jeff Wilson to discuss the Super Rugby playoffs and his prospective All Blacks squad with just a couple of weeks until it's announced.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott and Liam recap a busy week of rugby news with Will Jordan re-signing with NZR top of the list, before offering their thoughts on Wayne Smith's new performance coach role and the Ruby Tui-Weetbix card saga.
Super Rugby comes to the pointy end of the regular season with 11 teams to go into eight playoff spots after this weekend, we review the penultimate round of the competition and figure out who will be in the quarter-finals and where.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott and Liam discuss the breaking news out of Moana Pasifika that coach Aaron Mauger has resigned as head coach and won't be back in 2024. We contemplate the different options to take on the job and where it leaves the franchise.
In addition, we cast our eyes over the European domestic final, debate the resting of players and whether anything can be done about it as well as the technological innovations about to sweep rugby by storm.
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On this week's Rugby Direct, we review the Chiefs fall to their first defeat of the Super Rugby season while the Crusaders have the better of the Blues in a highly-anticipated local derby... we discuss the implications for the playoffs.
We also pick apart New Zealand Rugby's memorandum of understanding with Japan and whether Roger Tuivasa-Sheck should stay or go if he's on the outer at the Blues.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier discuss the Fijian Drua's win over the Hurricanes and Moana Pasifika's close loss to the Blues and what these sides need to do to take the next step as they continue to build.
We contemplate the All Blacks back three situation as crunch time for selection nears with a couple of Chiefs players continuing to put their hands up and ask whether the draft idea put up by Rugby Australia is really what Super Rugby needs.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier react to NZR re-signing Damian McKenzie and Ruby Tui for a couple more years each.
They also assess the Chiefs v Crusaders match and other games from the latest round of Super Rugby, before contemplating the debate around All Blacks players being selected from offshore after it cropped up again in recent days.
We also ponder what would possess the Hurricanes to get rid of their iconic song/chant from their match-day experience.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Scott Robertson has announced his All Blacks coaching team for when he takes over after the World Cup.
So what do Elliott and Liam make of it?
We also debate round nine of Super Rugby, whether Anzac Day is appropriately marked in Super Rugby and evaluate Roger Tuivasa-Sheck's decision to head back to league after this year.
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This week on Rugby Direct,
Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's Blues/All Blacks commentator) is joined by Nick Bewley (Crusaders commentator) standing in for Liam Napier.
We discuss the Chiefs v Hurricanes top of the table match-up in the sun in Wellington, assess Moana Pasifika's first 'real' home game in Apia and assess Rieko Ioane's re-signing with NZR until 2027.
Elliott and Nick also cast an eye at the Black Ferns assistant announcement and ask whether the lack of females in the staff was a legitimate discussion or storm-in-a-teacup.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott and Liam discuss the latter's exclusive around the probable make up of Scott Robertson's coaching team for the All Blacks next year and beyond.
We also review round seven of Super Rugby, look ahead to round eight and try and figure out why rugby executives can't seem to see what the rest of us do around scheduling of games on long weekends.
In addition, two players are big movers on the MVP rankings.
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In this episode, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier run the rule over the Chiefs beating the Blues and continuing their unbeaten start to season 2023.
We also check in on the Kiwi sides and give a big round of applause to the New Zealand Sevens sides for their victories in Hong Kong.
Elliott and Liam also ponder Moana Pasifika and ask where their next win is coming from and if we really need a Wallabies squad to be named in April.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott and Liam review the Super Rugby Aupiki decider which saw a shock win for Matatu.
We also examine the latest in the race for the All Blacks assistants jobs and review a round five of Super Rugby Pacific in which it felt like half the competition's players - okay maybe an exaggeration - were being rested.
Elliott and Liam also cast an eye on Rugby Australia's big spending over the weekend.
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On a special edition of the Rugby Direct podcast, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier discuss the appointment of Scott Robertson as the new All Blacks head coach.
We analyse what it means for Robertson himself, take a look at his prospective team and how it might play out this year now for both the current and future All Blacks coaching staffs.
We also hear from Robertson as well as NZR chief executive Mark Robinson in interviews from on the ground.
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This week on Rugby Direct,
Elliott Smith and Liam Napier discuss the Crusaders' bouncing back with a win over the Blues at Eden Park, while the Highlanders are also in the winners' circle for the first time this year.
Ireland wrap up the grand slam and Six Nations in dominant fashion overall, so what will it take to stop them in France.
And we assess the latest twists and turns of the All Blacks coaching race and dish out some MVP points.
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This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier analyse the state of the All Blacks coaching race after Joe Schmidt's withdrawal and whether it's just going to remain a two-horse race while also pondering if the early season wobbles of the Crusaders will have any impact.
Elliott and Liam assess the Six Nations with a round left, wonder whether there's a better format for Super Rugby Aupiki and hand one player all the points in the Rugby Direct medal race.
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This week on Rugby Direct,
Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's lead rugby commentator) and Liam Napier (Chief sports writer - NZ Herald) debate the key issues from Super Round in Melbourne.
The guys discuss Ardie Savea's throat-slitting gesture, the Highlanders copping a second straight heavy defeat and the Blues losing to the Brumbies in a fascinating match.
We also look at Aupiki - can anyone stop the Chiefs Manawa? - and the All Blacks coaching appointment takes another twist as more certainty emerges.
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Elliott and Liam are back to review the opening round of Super Rugby, as the Crusaders crumbled against the Chiefs, the Blues powered past the Highlanders and the Hurricanes swept past the Reds.
We also review round one of Super Rugby Aupiki, the latest Six Nations games and debate the All Blacks coaching saga, which has taken another (!) turn in recent days.
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Elliot Smith & Liam Napier kick off 2023 by looking ahead at the busy year of rugby.
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Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's lead rugby commentator) and Liam Napier (chief Sports writer at the New Zealand Herald) were poised to head off into summer but before the boys don the speedos, fire up the BBQ and grab a pool noodle they've been summoned for one last podcast to review what was a mammoth year for rugby in New Zealand.
In this bumper podcast, they get stuck into the highs and lows of Super Rugby, the All Blacks, the Black Ferns while remembering some of their favourite media conference moments.
Elliott and Liam dish up some awards, as well as ponder a few existential questions about rugby and where it is going ahead of 2023.
Amidst all of that, the guys take a look at the coaching sagas up north and the domino effect they might have on New Zealand.
Rugby Direct returns in 2023.
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On this week's episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier dissect the All Black's drawn test against England. Was it their best performance of the year or did it sum up season 2022 for the men in black?
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On this week's episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier have moved from Edinburgh to London ahead of the final All Blacks test of the year, but before they discuss the All Blacks' win over Scotland, they convene to discuss the Black Ferns' almighty World Cup win and what it might mean for women's rugby in New Zealand and assess the interesting nominee's list for World Rugby's Awards.
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On this week's episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier review the All Blacks' victory over Wales, the Black Ferns' road to World Cup glory continues and big bad Brodie Retallick sits down for a chat.
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On this week's podcast, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier review the All Blacks' scratchy win over Japan in Tokyo and the Black Ferns thumping of Wales in their Rugby World Cup quarter-final and look ahead to both NZ sides' respective next games.
Popular Wales rugby broadcaster Lauren Jenkins joins the pod to give her assessment on what to expect from the hosts this week.
And, Elliott and Liam debate where to from here for Dane Coles after another injury.
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On this week's podcast, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier review the All Blacks' scratchy win over Japan in Tokyo and the Black Ferns thumping of Wales in their Rugby World Cup quarter-final and look ahead to both NZ sides' respective next games.
Popular Wales rugby broadcaster Lauren Jenkins joins the pod to give her assessment on what to expect from the hosts this week.
And, Elliott and Liam debate where to from here for Dane Coles after another injury.
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On this week's Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's All Blacks commentator) and Liam Napier (NZ Herald chief sports writer) review the Black Fern's latest win at the Women's Rugby World Cup ahead of their quarter-final match against Wales.
Elliott is in Tokyo with the All Blacks ahead of their opening match of the end-of-year tour against Japan.
All that and more on the latest edition of Rugby Direct thanks to Employment Hero.
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On this week's Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's All Blacks commentator) and Liam Napier (NZ Herald chief sports writer) review the Black Fern's latest win at the Women's Rugby World Cup ahead of their quarter-final match against Wales.
Elliott is in Tokyo with the All Blacks ahead of their opening match of the end-of-year tour against Japan.
All that and more on the latest edition of Rugby Direct thanks to Employment Hero.
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On this week's Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's All Blacks commentator) and Liam Napier (NZ Herald chief sports writer) return from activating the sabbatical clauses in their respective contracts and assess the Black Ferns' Rugby World Cup campaign through the first two games and also cast an eye to England and France's progress.
Canterbury and Wellington have booked spots in the Bunnings NPC final, with the men from the capital looking in fine form as they try and go down to beat the red and black machine.
We also look at Ardie Savea's 2024 stint playing in Japan, as well as cast a look over the All Blacks XV.
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On this week's Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's All Blacks commentator) and Liam Napier (NZ Herald chief sports writer) return from activating the sabbatical clauses in their respective contracts and assess the Black Ferns' Rugby World Cup campaign through the first two games and also cast an eye to England and France's progress.
Canterbury and Wellington have booked spots in the Bunnings NPC final, with the men from the capital looking in fine form as they try and go down to beat the red and black machine.
We also look at Ardie Savea's 2024 stint playing in Japan, as well as cast a look over the All Blacks XV.
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On this week's Rugby Direct, Kate Wells (Newstalk ZB sport journalist) is joined by former Black Ferns captain and New Zealand Rugby board member Dr Farah Palmer to analyse the opening of the women's Rugby World Cup which kicked off in Auckland last weekend. They discuss the Black Ferns' spine chilling haka, the sold out Eden Park crowd and who can win the tournament.
We delve into how this tournament compares to Dr Palmer's experience, playing three Rugby World Cup's herself.
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On this week's Rugby Direct, Kate Wells (Newstalk ZB sport journalist) is joined by former Black Ferns captain and New Zealand Rugby board member Dr Farah Palmer to analyse the opening of the women's Rugby World Cup which kicked off in Auckland last weekend. They discuss the Black Ferns' spine chilling haka, the sold out Eden Park crowd and who can win the tournament.
We delve into how this tournament compares to Dr Palmer's experience, playing three Rugby World Cup's herself.
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On this week's Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's All Blacks commentator) and Liam Napier (NZ Herald chief sports writer) look ahead to the Rugby World Cup 2021 (being played in 2022) kicking off this weekend at Eden Park and ask whether the Black Ferns are a realistic chance of winning it at this point in their rebuild against the likes of England and France.
We chat Jordie Barrett's re-signing with NZR and the Hurricanes through to 2025 and the fortunes of the NPC sides as we approach the business end of the side.
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On this week's Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's All Blacks commentator) and Liam Napier (NZ Herald chief sports writer) reflect on the All Blacks' 40-14 win over Australia that captured the Rugby Championship for another year.
We ask whether Jordie Barrett is now the ABs man at 12, who the top 3 All Blacks are to this point in 2022 and give our marks for the year to date.
We also ponder what was learned from the Black Ferns' romp against Japan, as we close in on the Rugby World Cup.
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On this week's edition of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's lead rugby commentator) and Liam Napier (chief sports writer - NZ Herald) review the All Blacks and Wallabies' Bledisloe Cup test at Marvel Stadium and the shock decision of referee Mathieu Raynal at the end.
We discuss the make up of the side for Eden Park and whether the Wallabies can take some positives from the fact they probably should have won.
We also talk Ranfurly Shield being on the move to Wellington and the Black Ferns' test against Japan this weekend.
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On this week's edition of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's lead rugby commentator) and Liam Napier (chief sports writer - NZ Herald) are in Melbourne ahead of the All Blacks and Wallabies' Bledisloe Cup test at Marvel Stadium on Thursday (which you can hear live on NewstalkZB and Gold Sport).
We debate the likely team to be announced by Ian Foster for the match, the challenges the Wallabies might pose the All Blacks and whether the All Blacks can snap their win/loss pattern of recent times.
The guys also debate the other big issues in the Rugby world, including whether player names should be on the back of jerseys.
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On this week's Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's All Blacks commentator) and Liam Napier (NZ Herald chief sports writer) discuss the All Blacks' big win over Argentina in Hamilton and debate whether everything has been cured now.
We pay tribute to the in-form Samisoni Taukei'aho, debate whether Richie Mo'unga now has a mortgage on the All Blacks 10 jersey and colours are nailed to the mast ahead of the Farah Palmer Cup final.
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On this week's Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's All Blacks commentator) and Liam Napier (NZ Herald chief sports writer) reflect on yet another weekend of drama out of the All Blacks as Argentina stun them at Orange Theory Stadium in Christchurch.
Elliott and Liam discuss how Los Pumas managed it, but also how the All Blacks blew any number of opportunities to at very least draw the match. Discussion also turns to the makeup of the side for this weekend and whether all-out change is the answer.
In addition, the guys look at a repelled Ranfurly Shield challenge and discuss whether Hawke's Bay might hold it all year and also assess a shaky Black Ferns effort in Adelaide.
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On this week's Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's All Blacks commentator) and Liam Napier (NZ Herald chief sports writer) discuss the All Blacks' mood since they returned to camp this week in Christchurch after the tumultuous past couple of weeks with questions over their head coach.
We ponder any selection changes the All Blacks might make for the test against Argentina and ponder what the future is for props Nepo Laulala and Ofa Tuungfasi in the All Blacks environment.
Elliott and Liam also run the rule over the Black Ferns big win over Australia in Christchurch and discuss the unpredictable nature of the Bunnings NPC.
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On this week's - special edition - of Rugby Direct Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's lead rugby commentator) and Liam Napier (NZ Herald's chief sports writer) react to the news that Ian Foster has retained his job as All Blacks coach to the end of 2023.
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On this week's podcast Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's lead rugby commentator) and Liam Napier (NZ Herald's chief sports writer) discuss the All Blacks loss to South Africa, but more importantly the bigger picture of five tests lost in six matches and whether there is anything that can be done to arrest this slide.
Liam's on the ground in South Africa to give us a sense of the local reaction to the performances from both sides and we assess where the All Blacks problems' start, as well as analyse whether it truly was the "best performance" by the All Blacks this year.
We take a look at the much-discussed future of Ian Foster in his job, while we also tackle (metaphorically only) the issue of high ball tackles and if the time has come to ban jumping for the ball in rugby.
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On this week's podcast Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's lead rugby commentator) and Liam Napier (NZ Herald's chief sports writer) go international - with Liam in South Africa ahead of the first Rugby Championship test against the Springboks.
We assess what changes the All Blacks might make to their 23 for the test against the 'Boks as they try to arrest a slide that has them with four losses in their last five and ask where the All Blacks have to improve if they are to be any chance of a result.
We run the rule over the Springboks side named for the match and whether there are any weaknesses there the All Blacks might look to exploit.
Elliott and Liam also address the Sevens teams taking away bronze from the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, with Australia returning to the top in women.
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On this week's edition of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's lead rugby commentator) and Liam Napier (Chief Sports writer at the NZ Herald) assess another week of drama related to the All Blacks that has culminated in two assistant coaches being dumped and Crusaders forwards coach Jason Ryan being rushed in to assist the front eight.
The guys also run the rule over Ian Foster's media conference on Friday and whether that quelled a few issues, as well as assessing the Rugby Championship squad named and discuss whether more widespread changes than the ones made were warranted.
Elliott and Liam also offer some quick thoughts on the chances of the two Sevens sides at the Commonwealth Games and the prospect of a Club World Cup has returned again - what chance it actually happens?
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On this week's edition of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's lead rugby commentator) and Liam Napier (Chief Sports writer at the NZ Herald) analyse the All Blacks series defeat to Ireland and where that leaves the coaching staff and the team going forward. We take a deep dive into how Ireland dismantled the All Blacks in the capital and played one of the great first halves in New Zealand. Elliott and Liam also clear the air over how the media conference debacle played out and how that slip-up launched a thousand conspiracy theories.
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On this week's podcast Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's lead rugby commentator) and Liam Napier (NZ Herald's chief sports writer) discuss Ireland's first ever win over the All Blacks on New Zealand soil and examine how they were able to win in such convincing fashion and set up a series decider this weekend in the capital. Elliott and Liam debate the chaotic substitution rules over Ardie Savea and Dalton Papalii as well as look at the Angus Ta'avao situation and ask what World Rugby is exactly trying to achieve in how they classify incidents like that. The elephant in the room is also discussed - what is the future for the All Blacks coaching staff and how do they fix the issues immediately for Saturday night's decider?
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On the latest edition of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's All Blacks commentator) and Liam Napier (NZ Herald chief sports writer) discuss the All Blacks 42-19 win over Ireland to go 1-nil up in the series heading to Dunedin this week. We breakdown the ways the All Blacks were able to attack, offering Ireland something unexpected with their play with ball in hand that they didn't see last November and also showing some committed goalline defence. They also ponder what it will take for Ireland to level the series this week, how that might be achieved and whether the All Blacks will look to blood any further new players 'under the roof'.
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On this week's edition of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's All Blacks commentator) and Liam Napier (NZ Herald rugby writer) react to a hectic 48 hours of news from the All Blacks camp - with six down with Covid including three members of the coaching staff.
We discuss how that might affect the planning for Saturday's match and the make-up of the side, while Joe Schmidt has been called in as an extra voice for the All Blacks in the absence of Foster, John Plumtree and Scott McLeod. What Irish state secrets will be able to provide an insight into?
Elliott and Liam also discuss Roger Tuivasa-Sheck and whether Havili and Goodhue's absence means he will get a call-up for the first test.
On this week's edition of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's lead rugby commentator) and Liam Napier (Chief Sports Writer at the NZ Herald) break down the Crusaders' emphatic Super Rugby Pacific grand final win over the Blues at Eden Park.
The guys discuss the Crusaders' ability to play grand final footy, to suffocate the Blues and turn the hosts' lineout inside out with incredible regularity.
For this final time this season, the guys dish out their MVP points and crown the highly prestigious and inaugural Rugby Direct Medal.
In addition, the guys give their thumbs up or down to the Super Rugby season as a whole, review the Black Ferns Pac4 series and look ahead to the All Blacks.
On this week's edition of Rugby Direct, we go one-on-one with All Blacks coach Ian Foster about the 36-man squad named for the three-test series against Ireland and discuss the key talking points of his squad including the six new caps, the exclusion of TJ Perenara and Brad Weber at halfback and other key discussion points with Ireland on the horizon.
Liam Napier joins to dissect the squad and where the strengths and weaknesses lie, as well as look ahead to a small matter of a Blues and Crusaders Super Rugby Pacific final.
On the latest edition of Rugby Direct:
Elliott Smith and Liam Napier dissect the Super Rugby Pacific quarter-finals that went exactly to the formbook, at least on the scoreboard but who impressed and who left the guys a bit cold even in progressing through to the last four.
With the Highlanders and Hurricanes signing off for the year, we also review where it went wrong (and right in some areas) for them this year and where both sides need to improve if they're to be contenders for next year.
We also outline what we want to see from the Black Ferns as they return to the park for the Pac-Four series against Australia, Canada and the USA.
On this week's edition of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier debate the final round of Super Rugby Pacific before the playoffs, including the race for the eighth spot eventually won by the Highlanders.
We wave farewell to the Drua and Moana Pasifika (as well as the Rebels and Force) and assess the two maiden campaigns from the Pacific expansion sides and where they need to improve on next year.
The guys debate what the Blues need to fix as they try and convert their top seeding into a title, while also ponder a controversial non-red card from the weekend and ask whether Pablo Matera got away with one.
On this weekend’s episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith is joined by Liam Napier, who returns from watching the other code in Brisbane to help analyse week 14 of Super Rugby Pacific, the penultimate round before the playoffs which saw big wins for three kiwi-based sides and a narrow win and narrow losses for a couple of others.
Elliott and Liam dish out the usual MVP points and tipping, as well as ponder the merits of the current playoff structure, whether an Australian side is capable of going all the way and winning the competition and also assess the first seasons of the Fijian Drua and Moana Pasifika as they prepare to wrap their inaugural seasons.
On this week's edition of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and special guest Christopher Reive from the New Zealand Herald (@ChrisReive) break down the weekend of rugby that was from Super Rugby Pacific, as the Kiwi sides went 5-nil over their Australian opponents, along with a feisty Pacific derby in Sydney.
Elliott and Christopher also discuss the growing reputation of Stephen Perofeta and whether an All Blacks jersey awaits him in the July series against Ireland, as well as pondering on the back of a kiwi sweep over the weekend whether the Australians have really closed the gap or if it was all bluster.
On the latest edition of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier review week 12 of Super Rugby - as the Brumbies continued on their merry way against New Zealand sides with a win over the Chiefs in Hamilton, while the Highlanders sneaked a close one against the Reds.
There were comprehensive wins for the other New Zealand sides, so we debate whether the chatter about the gap closing was misguided last week.
Stephen Perofeta continues to look classy in the Blues line-up whether at 10/15 so we debate how far away he might be from an All Blacks jersey this year, and also consider what the Highlanders should be looking for in a new head coach.
On the latest edition of Rugby Direct, Elliott and Liam discuss what amounted to a poor round for the New Zealand sides - even the ones that banked full competition points. A one-off or have Australia found their mojo in Super Rugby Pacific?
The guys debate whether the Crusaders empire is crumbling after a recent-record of three defeats this year, while the fortunes and selections of the Hurricanes continue to confound - will they settle on a first choice squad at any point this year?
Elliott and Liam also find a way to dish out some MVP points from a round where it was much easier to spot top Australian performers than Kiwis.
On this week’s edition of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier evaluate the Super Round in Melbourne and ask if it was really Super or if it was shoddy, with the scoreline at 4-1 after the weekend.
The Highlanders lose to the Brumbies and while they're still in the mix for the playoffs, Elliott and Liam debate where this team is going and whether Tony Brown is the right man to take the team forward.
Liam and Elliott also discuss what Roger Tuivasa-Sheck needs to do to make the All Blacks this year and whether time is running out...
On this weekend’s edition of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier take the temperature of Super Rugby after the last round of all-New Zealand matches, with the Blues finally winning in Christchurch for the first time since 2004 in a thriller against the Crusaders, while the Hurricanes hold on in a bit of controversy against the Highlanders.
Elliott and Liam discuss the red-cards issued over the weekend and ask whether the subsequent punishments from the judiciary are too lenient, as well as whether there’s any chance of an Australian victor in Super Rugby Pacific.
On this week’s edition of Rugby Direct, Elliott and Liam debate the weekend’s big rugby issues – primarily the closing moments of the Hurricanes v Crusaders game, which saw a chance at golden point turned down... and a penalty denied by the referee.
Were the ‘Canes in the right by taking the kick for the corner? The guys also debate the Blues’ crushing win over the Chiefs and the Highlanders finally get on the board, but is it too little to late in the playoff run?
On the latest edition of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier delve into the weekend’s rugby issues and debate the red cards that were dished out including the most contentious one – supposedly – to Caleb Clarke.
The Crusaders ensure it’s another winless week for the Highlanders, but only just and debate whether Jordie Barrett’s switch to 12 has long-term merit after his return to the role in the Hurricanes’ loss to the Chiefs.
Oh and Tiger Woods gets a mention too.
Elliott and Liam are back for another week of rugby discussion - with the big win for Moana Pasifika dominating discussion - the win no-one saw coming, while the Crusaders underline their title credentials with a bounce-back win over the Chiefs in Hamilton.
The guys also update the MVP race, while we debate Beauden Barrett's latest head knock, whether the crowds were good for two days notice or not and the addition of some star power to the Black Ferns staff.
This week on Rugby Direct, Elliott and Liam debate the key talking points from the weekend – including the completion of the inaugural Super Rugby Aupiki competition, as well as France winning the Six Nations but Italy almost stealing the limelight and the guys dish out their MVP points for the weekend just been of Super Rugby Pacific, after a making an urgent rewrite to the competition rules.
New frontrunners?
Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's lead rugby commentator) and Liam Napier (NZ Herald chiefs sports writer) review the latest round of Super Rugby Pacific, with the Blues coming from behind to beat the Highlanders at North Harbour Stadium and the Chiefs make a real statement in knocking off the Crusaders in Christchurch.
They also review the opening game of Super Rugby Aupiki and cram in plenty of rugby discussion on the Six Nations, Gayle Broughton's shock retirement and how Covid might continue to impact the NZ Rugby scene.
In addition, a health of dose of MVP table updates - with one name on the charge.
On this week's edition of NZME's rugby podcast, Elliott Smith (Newstalk ZB's lead rugby commentator) and Liam Napier (NZ Herald rugby writer) debate the third round of Super Rugby Pacific and give some much deserved plaudits to Moana Pasifika and eat a little bit of humble pie while doing so.
The Blues escape against the Chiefs and the Hurricanes get the job done against the Highlanders who are still searching for their first win.
Elliott and Liam also update the race for the Rugby Direct MVP voting - Will Jordan had the week off and a new contender has emerged for the throne, while the tipping race has also been - tipped - on its head.
And the guys debate who'll win Super Rugby Aupiki and whether Mark Robinson's pilgrimage north will result in a global nations championship and a world club championship or if it's still pie-in-the-sky stuff.
Week two of Super Rugby Pacific is in the books, the Crusaders have two wins and the Blues should have had one but they don't and the Hurricanes do instead.
Elliott and Liam discuss how on earth the Blues blew it and what the Hurricanes did to spark themselves back into life.
Plus we reflect on the two sad deaths in NZ rugby last week.
Elliott Smith and Liam Napier wrap the opening round of Super Rugby Pacific - with a big look at the opening run-arounds for the Kiwi sides.
The Chiefs were too good for the Highlanders and the Crusaders dodged the Hurricanes under the roof in Dunedin.
The guys also offer their votes for the Rugby Direct MVP and ask what can we expect from Roger Tuivasa-Sheck in his season debut.
Elliott Smith and Liam Napier discuss the late-breaking news of the Silver Lake deal with NZR, as well as take a look at how it might change New Zealand Rugby. And on the doorstep to the new Super Rugby season, we assess the fortunes of the sides in action this week.
Elliott catches up with the man behind the Raeburn and Utrecht Shields - mythical rugby trophies that don't exist but perhaps should.
Elliott Smith catches up with Michelle Hooper, tournament director of the 2021 Rugby World Cup - to be played in 2022 - and discusses her vision for the tournament.
We talk the eligibility changes to World Rugby and preview Heartland XV v New Zealand Baabaas, with the man who'll be going up against Warren Gatland in the coaching booth - Nigel Walsh.
Liam Napier and Elliott discuss the All Blacks' poor run to finish the 2021 season and ask if it's a blip or something more.
On this podcast:
Former All Blacks halfback Ant Strachan discusses the loss to Ireland and what can be fixed in time for France, while Ross Filipo joins us to discuss the homecoming for Waikato ahead of the Bunnings NPC final this weekend against Tasman and Moana Pasifika's Kevin Senio reacts to the Super Rugby Pacific draw for 2022.
On this podcast:
Honey Hireme-Smiler, aka the women's rugby GOAT, joins us to discuss the Black Ferns wallopings at the hands of England and we ask, what can be done to fix it.
Beauden Barrett joins us to discuss the All Blacks v Ireland, Johnny Sexton, the party after his 100th at his folks' place and his verdict on Taranaki's Bunnings NPC form.
We chat the All Blacks' big win over Wales and the Black Ferns' big defeat to England with Sky's Tony Johnson, while German-born Anton Segner joins us to discuss his signing with the Blues.
Tasman's form in the Bunnings' NPC this year and his hopes of becoming an All Black.
On the latest edition of the podcast, we review the 104-14 mauling dished out by the All Blacks to the United States and try to get some benefit from it.
Aaron Mauger coach of Moana Pasifika joins us for an extended interview on his vision for the team and Elliott laments Canterbury's fall from grace in the NPC.
We pay tribute to Sean Wainui after his tragic passing, while former Crusaders playmaker Steve Brett - now USA Eagles assistant coach - joins the podcast to talk us through his journey and preview the All Blacks test this weekend.
On this weeks podcast, Waikato Farah Palmer Cup coach James Semple and the lofty goals for his coaching future and it's a busy week (again!) of NPC news and matches.
Newstalk ZB commentator Malcolm Jordan opines on why Hawke's Bay's have been able to hold onto the Ranfurly Shield
On this week's podcast we break down all the rugby over the weekend, including the close loss to the Springboks.
We talk to All Blacks coach Ian Foster about his decision to name Josh Lord for the All Blacks end of year tour, we also get an opinion from Taranaki coach Neil Barnes, and lastly we get Josh's thoughts first hand.
In this podcast Newstalk ZB's Elliott Smith gives you everything you need to know for the weekend of rugby including the latest out of the All Blacks camp ahead of the 100th test against South Africa, as well as a look at some intriguing new rugby rules.
In this podcast we preview everything you need to know ahead of this weekend of rugby - the second All Blacks test v Argentina, and domestic rugby restarting.
On this edition of the podcast, we chat with All Blacks number eight Luke Jacobson and analyse the 39-nil win over Argentina and ask where to this week for the All Blacks?
On this weeks podcast, we hear from All Blacks coach Ian Foster, returning All Black Joe Moody and Argentina captain Julian Montoya on this week's show.
In this second 'emergency' episode of Rugby Direct, Newstalk ZB's Elliott Smith talks with Ian Foster on his 2 year contract with the All Blacks.Also questions to Mark Robinson and SANZAAR CEO Brendan Morris.
Listen to commentary of every All Blacks test in 2021 on Newstalk ZB, Gold AM or via iHeart Radio.
In this emergency episode of Rugby Direct, Newstalk ZB's Elliott Smith discusses the COVID-19 situation in New Zealand and the impact it has on the All Blacks moving forward.
Listen to commentary of every All Blacks test in 2021 on Newstalk ZB, Gold AM or via iHeart Radio.
In episode six of Rugby Direct, Newstalk ZB's Elliott Smith catches up with NZ Herald sports journalist Liam Napier about the upcoming Bledisloe cup clash.
All Black Jordie Barrett shares his expectations of the Wallabies this weekend and touches on the All Blacks previous Bledisloe performance.
With the first Ranfurly Shield challenge looming Otago coach Tom Donnelly talks his teams long term goals for the season.
Listen to commentary of every All Blacks test in 2021 on Newstalk ZB, Gold AM or via iHeart Radio.
In episode five of Rugby Direct, Newstalk ZB's Elliott Smith sits down with All Blacks Dane Coles and Aaron Smith ahead of 2021's first battle for the Bledisloe.
Wallabies captain Michael Hooper discusses his views on the decision to drop some of his team mates from the test match due to drinking past their curfew.
Former All Black and Auckland assistant coach Steve Bates talks the final game of the Bunnings NPC: Auckland vs Canterbury.
Listen to commentary of every All Blacks test in 2021 on Newstalk ZB, Gold AM or via iHeart Radio.
In episode four of Rugby Direct, Newstalk ZB's Elliott Smith sits down with Blues and All Blacks lock Patrick Tuipulotu after re-signing with NZ Rugby; former All Black Waisake Naholo has signed on with Canterbury for the Bunnings NPC; the All Blacks 7s team are on their way to the Olympics and we preview the first test between the Lions and Springboks.
Listen to commentary of every All Blacks test in 2021 on Newstalk ZB, Gold AM or via iHeart Radio.
In episode three of Rugby Direct, Newstalk ZB's Elliott Smith looks at what the All Blacks need to improve on for game two against Fiji with commentator Willie Lose; we hear from rising All Blacks star Will Jordan and talk to Canterbury captain Alana Bremner ahead of the opening round of Farah Palmer Cup.
Listen to commentary of every All Blacks test in 2021 on Newstalk ZB, Gold AM or via iHeart Radio.
In episode two of our brand new rugby podcast, Newstalk ZB's Elliott Smith previews the All Blacks' first test against Fiji with former All Black Paul Miller, we hear from All Black coach Ian Foster and take a look at the shambles that is the Lions tour of South Africa.
Listen to commentary of every All Blacks test in 2021 on Newstalk ZB, Gold AM or via iHeart Radio.
In episode one of our brand new rugby podcast, Newstalk ZB's Elliott Smith is joined by NZ Herald rugby writer Liam Napier as they look at the first test of the All Blacks 2021 season against Tonga, and Elliott sits down with new All Black Quinn Tupaea.
Listen to commentary of every All Blacks test in 2021 on Newstalk ZB, Gold AM or via iHeart Radio.
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