May 8, 2026 • 18 mins
On Sports Fix with Jason Pine and D'Arcy Waldegrave for 8th May 2026, NZR have had a big week with the announcement of their new CEO Steve Lancaster. His Australian counterpart Phil Waugh joins the podcast to discuss his relationship with the new NZR CEO.
Piney worries about the void left by Cam Roigard's injury.
Plus, the lads are in the Chamber discussing semifinals footy in the A-League.
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Speaker 1 (00:09):
You're listening to a podcast from News Talks ed B
follow this and our wide range of podcasts now on iHeartRadio.
This is Sportsfix Howard by News Talks head be.
Speaker 2 (00:20):
Hello there, Welcome to the back end of the week
and the front end of another busy sporting weekend with
lots to talk. So we are here for you on
the Sports Fix podcast on Friday, the eighth of May.
Speaker 3 (00:30):
I'm Jason Pine and I'm Darcy Watergrave. Here for you,
poney fuck.
Speaker 2 (00:35):
I'd really rather prefer you are here for the listeners,
if I'm honest. It's good to have your support, though,
as we negotiate the beginning of another sporting weekend with
so much to look forward to, another round of Super Rugby,
which I think could be quite pivotal in terms of
their finishing positions. And know it's only one game for
these teams, but they are running out a runway, some
of them, including your Red and Blacks. Just quietly let's
(00:56):
talk about that a bit later on. The women's Phoenix
could make a Grand Final for the first time. We're
crossing the Tasman for a different voice today.
Speaker 3 (01:02):
Here we are got hold of Phil war very approachable
chief executive of Rugby Australia. It's took about the appointment
of a man he's going to be working very close with.
Of course, Steve Lancaster is that man, new CEO of
endz Ina. So Phil Water join us later here in
the podcast.
Speaker 2 (01:21):
Always an interesting guy to hear from. The latest and
sports news coming your way too, so let's get into it.
In other news, Let's get you underway as always with
a look at some of the big sports stories around today.
A Blues bomb squad bench has come as no surprise
to Crusaders captain David Harvilly ahead of tonight's Super Rugby
Darby and christ Jugeman, like Christy and Boden Barrett, are
(01:42):
among the reserves. Sam Knock and Stephen pett Effetta will
start for the Blues. But as I say David HARVILLI
is not too surprised about that.
Speaker 4 (01:49):
Bodian read the really good controllers of the game, So
then coming off the bench provides that in the later
half of the game, and I think the roof and
how quick the game's going to be, they'll be looking
to control that last sort of twenty minutes.
Speaker 2 (02:02):
Round ten of Rugby Legs NRL is underway the Dolphins
trouncing the Bulldogs forty four to twelve. Canterbury Cameron Serraaldo
knows where the blame lies.
Speaker 5 (02:11):
On the edges. We either decide not to stay in
system or decide to not put our body on the line.
And it's a costUS in our four. I feel so
sorry for our forwards because they just kept turning up
and ripping in and doing their job and then they
have that disappointment of setting me on the trail.
Speaker 2 (02:25):
One and Chris Wood and Nottingham Forest have been on
the receiving end of a stunning Aston Villa comeback in
Football's Europa League semi Finals. Trailing one nil heading into
their home return leg, Villa have powered through four unanswered
goals for a four to one aggregate victory. O.
Speaker 3 (02:42):
God's done well, here comes Rogers. Is this Hends moment,
It's beginning good, It's numberfore He's turning it.
Speaker 5 (02:49):
To a road us and a Vinion.
Speaker 1 (02:52):
It's Sports Fix with Jason Pine and Dusty Water.
Speaker 3 (02:55):
It's a welcome to the Sports Fixed podcast to the
Chief Executive of Rugby Australia, mister Phil war Hi. Phil,
We've got a new CEO here it ends Rugby's name
is Steve Langcaster, his you new best friend in world rugby.
I'd like to think what was your initial reaction when
you heard that he'd been given the nod.
Speaker 6 (03:17):
Yeah, I think it's a really exciting appointment. We've had
a great relationship since Steve stepped into the role and
working really closely with the new appointments in New Zealand rugby,
and you know, they feel like it's a very exciting
time for rugby, not just in Australia and New Zealand,
but just right across the region with obviously the Rugby
(03:38):
World Cup coming to Australia next year, Women's World Cup
in twenty nine, and so really important trust work basically
with New Zealand to maximize the opportunity.
Speaker 3 (03:46):
The strength of Southern Hemisphere rugby basically lies in your hands.
What's the key to that relationship and propping up these
competitions Super Rugby, the International as well into the future.
Speaker 2 (03:59):
Yeah.
Speaker 6 (03:59):
Well, ultimately we've got to be to be strong partners
and healthy partners and we're we're fully understanding of that,
and you know, how do we how do we come
together to ensure that Southern Hemisphere remained strong and if
you look at World Cup history and nine out of
the ten World customing won by Southern Hemisphere teams. So
really important for us to really lean in together and
(04:21):
we understand the competitive nature of our market, you know,
certainly the growth of AFL and the NRAL in our
markets and ensuring that we're putting a value proposition out
to athletes that ensures young boys and girls stay in
rugby and continue to flourish in rugby.
Speaker 3 (04:38):
Where are the areas do you think where you're very
closely aligned Australian and rugby, New Zelad rugby and of
course yourself and Steve was the great connection there do
you think, Phil Well?
Speaker 6 (04:49):
I think I think it's the connection between the community
game and the professional game. And if you look at
where it's been challenges in our markets, and I think
there's similar challenges in the New Zealand market. Is that
as professional rugby has got bigger and more time in it,
I think it's been a just location between the community
game and the professional game. And so you know what
we've been focusing on, certainly in the Australian market is
(05:11):
how do we bring the community game closer to the
professional game and close that gap. And given Steve's history
in New Zealand and the roles he's been in, he's
got a good understanding of that. And so we'll be
working really closely in coming together and bringing the community game, yes,
certainly much closer and into the same headspaces as a
professional game and looking at this one ultimately one game.
Speaker 3 (05:34):
Trade and information and IP whatever you want to call it.
Playing your leaning there the community game, he's been there
for a long time, shows great strength. What can New
Zealand Rugby and Steve glean from your side of the
Dutch field?
Speaker 6 (05:48):
Well, I think that you know, the competitive market that
is Australia is probably probably one of the most competitive
winter sporting markets in the world, and so certainly ensuring
that we've got to align value proposition so that we
can attract the best talent into our games. We understand
the importance of the international game and performing into matches
(06:09):
and winning trophies, and so yes, it's really important for
us to understand our value proposition and work together to
set that Apart from our competitors in particularly the NRL.
Speaker 3 (06:21):
There are going to be areas of debate. You can't
agree on anything if you do, there's something horribly wrong.
It's got to be robust debate between two of you guys.
Is there a big area? Do you think that maybe
you've got a lot of work to do in that
space in order to not necessarily aligned, but to talk
through issues that you may have. Where do they sit
right now? Phil?
Speaker 6 (06:43):
Yeah, I think we've obviously only sort of started in
a really close working relationship, and we're really excited with
the start that we've had, and it's been very constructive.
So you know, I think there's always going to be compromised.
You know, we're not going to see, you know, absolutely
eye to eye on every topic that I think. It's
around understanding and making sure that we come together to
(07:07):
make an aligned decision on what's best for the game
in our region. And I think that given see the
background and long history in the game and really successful
career across Moltiple organizations across multiple levels of the game,
I think you certainly got the subject their expertise in
most areas. So look, I think I think we'll be
(07:28):
a huge amount of compromises, a huge amount of respect. Yeah,
we want to be really transparent with our friends in
New Zealand and ensure that we're doing what's right for
the game in our region.
Speaker 3 (07:38):
Rugby Australia Chief Executive Phil war joining the program. You've
been in that role since I think twenty twenty three.
If you were to sit down with Steve and have
a couple of frothies and have some honest exchanges about
what happens, what would you tell him about being the
chief executive of a rugby nation. I suppose within Rugby?
(08:00):
What does he need to learn? What are the fish hooks,
what are the issues? What have you picked up in
the last few years that maybe you could share with
him to make it a smooth transition.
Speaker 6 (08:09):
I've had quite the journey on this side of that publicized.
So I'll put your mouth guard in and then strap
your ears, strap yours up, so just like he did
when he was playing. But now, look, I think you know,
as I always say, you know, you do, you do
what what's right for the game, and you work on
that basis and outcomes.
Speaker 2 (08:29):
Will be reasoning positive.
Speaker 6 (08:30):
So you know, as I said, I think that these
connections to the community game is a really important element
because ultimately, you know that the game starts and ends
in the community and ultimately we're big, big roles for
the national organizing body. But but really, you know, it's
a hug John be in our position and we're serving
for all those that support rugby in the community sports.
Speaker 2 (08:54):
Is there a more important player to his super rugby
team and to the All Blacks right now than Cam
roy Guard? The news during the week that roy Guard
had tweaked a calf muscle, what's the what's the cantlors
for an absolute outpouring of worry, of whaling, of gnashing
of teeth, not just for Hurricane supporters, but for all
(09:15):
Black supporters as well. If there's one guy who has
established a gap between himself and the next best in
his position, it is Cam Royguard. That is true at
All Blacks level, where the chasing pack includes the likes
of Cortes Latima, Noah Hotham and others who have designs
on the All Blacks number nine jersey. But it is
(09:36):
doubly even triply so at Hurricanes HQ. They are serviceable
backups the Hurricanes halfback cohort the likes of elitiari Enadi
and Jordi ville Yeern who will wear the nine and
twenty one jerseys respectively across the weekends when the Hurricanes
take on Mwana Pacific up. But with all due respect,
(09:58):
they are not cam Royguard. He has very quickly proven
himself to be a generational player, a generational halfback, a
player who can do things that really nobody else can do. So.
Hurricanes fans, when they heard this news, quickly raced to
their computers to check on the severity of it. How
(10:19):
long a calf injury normally takes to heal when cam
Royguard might be back. Of course, we had to do
without him for a large part of a season a
season ago when he picked up a very serious knee injury.
He rehapped quickly from that. I think we all were hoping, hoping,
with baited breath and with fingers crossed that it wouldn't
be anything like that, and by the sounds of it,
(10:40):
it's not. It's a calf tweak which might keep cam
Rougard out for three or four weeks. All going well,
he should be back, hopefully for the last game of
the regular season against the Crusaders under the Roof, and
then into the playoffs, which the Hurricanes have almost certainly
ensured that they will be a part of isn't it funny?
This is cam Roygard, who, earlier in his career couldn't
(11:00):
get an NPC. Gig Waikato looked at cam Rouygard and said,
we're not sure about you. I don't think we're going
to take the risk. Well, if you're fast forward a
few years, you find yourself in a situation where this player,
this one player is the most worried about at his
club and for his country.
Speaker 1 (11:21):
The Chamber is now in session on Sportsfax.
Speaker 2 (11:26):
Into the Chamber we go. We've heard about off field rugby.
Let's get into some on field rugby, starting in the
not too distant future tonight under that roof at Takaha
in christ Church, not a super round, but a super
game of super rugby. Crusaders v. Blues? Do you feel
us though your favorite? When I say you Crusaders fans,
(11:47):
do you feel us though you're your favorite? For this game?
Speaker 3 (11:49):
I'm wearing a Crusader's jersey right now, so you can
say you this is us. We are the Crusaders. Yeah,
I'd say so wobble last week, but even so close
short for maybe some indiudicious decisions. Is that the best
way to say it? From the referee could have won
that against the high flying Hurricane. So I think they're
(12:10):
in a good space under their roof for the second
time at the one New Zealand Stadium as it's correctly called,
I'm told at Takaha. I don't know if the Blues
have got the punch to carry on doing what they've
been doing over the last couple of weeks. Will this
pressure squash them? Do you think, Piney could?
Speaker 2 (12:27):
I look at the table and it just astonishes me.
And with apologies to our Blues supporting listeners on Sports Fix,
it's astonishing to me that the Blues are second. Yes,
I don't quite know how that has happened.
Speaker 3 (12:39):
Now, keep running well they do.
Speaker 2 (12:41):
Eight wins from eleven would tell you that story. But
I don't know dust They've never really been totally convincing
to me across that span. I think that the Hurricanes
and the Chiefs have had periods of good consistency. And look,
if the Chiefs win later on tonight and the Blues
don't win under the roof, then the Chiefs will supplant
them in second place. But I think you know, in
terms of consistency, I mean you'd freely admit the Crusaders
(13:05):
have been inconsistent. I think I think the Blues have
as well, haven't they even though they've won eight of
their eleven games.
Speaker 3 (13:11):
Well, let's look at the runway and you mentioned that
an introduction to the podcast today and he said, it's
getting very very short now toward the end of the season.
But when when is it the most important time of
the year to actually perform? What does everything lead up to?
And you know what I'm going to say here, they
need to start playing consistent best rugby when it actually counts,
(13:34):
and that is now or from quarterfinals onward. And I
suppose that's what the Blues have been looking toward, building toward.
And you're not going to string them up for inconsistent
results at the start of the season. You're going to
worry about what happens next, right.
Speaker 2 (13:49):
Yeah, you're right, You're dead right, You're did right. And look,
I feel as though both of these teams, Blues and Crusaders,
will be in the top six, they'll be in the playoffs.
But the last thing you want to do is limp
into the playoffs. You know, I look at the Blues,
I've got the Crusaders tonight could lose that, Hurricanes next
week could lose that, Chiefs the week after could lose that.
They could lose those three games similarly as have got
the Blues tonight, they've got the Chiefs next week and
(14:11):
the Hurricanes to finish, all at home. Admittedly, but they
could lose all three of those and still make the
top six. So I don't know if you want to
be limping into the playoffs.
Speaker 3 (14:18):
That you don't And isn't this good? And people do
have the temerity to complain about Super Rugby Pacific this
year and last year, which they should not. I don't
think they watch it. But the way it's been formulated
this year, the way the drawers operated this year, this
is mouth watering. Coming toward the very pointed end, all
these teams have an opportunity to really lay a stomach
(14:40):
punch or a blow to the jaw on their talented
opposition when it really counts. I don't think you hit
asked much more for much more than this in the
way things have actually shaped. And this is due to
the draw and what's Super Rugby Pacific have done.
Speaker 2 (14:53):
Yeah, the back end of the season is going to
be extremely watchable. I would say, starting under the roof
with the Crusaders against the Blues tonight. Can I mention
the Wellington Phoenix women's game on Sunday? By all means,
I've really enjoyed watching. I don't watch a lot of
football recent times. I've been watching a lot of football
that's New Zealand base because we've got teams doing really well.
Speaker 3 (15:13):
You've got to be proud of what the the Wahinis
have done so far. Yeah, but you add to it, mate,
you're the football dude.
Speaker 2 (15:19):
Well, I only wanted to mention it because they're on
the cusp of history. You know, this Wellington Phoenix club
has been around since two thousand and seven, the women
have been around for five seasons. Never before has a
men's or women's team from the club ever made a
Grand Final. The women's team could change that on Sunday. Yes,
they are too one down to Brisbane in the tie
after the two one loss in the away leg, but
(15:40):
I would fully back them to turn that around tomorrow
sorry on Sunday and earn their way into a Grand Final.
They played great football, their coach has been absolutely superb
and Bev Priestman, as you and I have spoken about
at length on Sports fixed us about the difference that
she's made. And I was out there today for their
final media session and all of the temporary seats have
(16:01):
been put in, They've increased the capacity. The ground is
looking a picture. I think it's all set up for
a bit of history on Sunday. I really would anybody
who has the ability to watch this, either live or
you like turning up to watch it, or they might
get a ticket now or watching on television to do
that because this is history. And I firmly believe that
on Sunday evening we'll be talking about a Phoenix women's
(16:22):
side that are into a Grand Final.
Speaker 3 (16:24):
I would love to hope. I would love to think
that that's the case. Maybe there's a mugging. I'm not
quite sure. When you come over the Tasman and it
is the return leg, there's a lot on the line
and I think home for this team, they like it here.
It could be trouble at Mill.
Speaker 2 (16:44):
He went to the northeast of England to finish. But
you've done it. I think that's not a bad way
to finish. I think where you look forward to rugby
across the weekend football as well. Let's not forget allklandfcgain
Saturllite you night a first leag of their semi tomorrow night. Gee,
so much to keep tabs on. We'll try and cover
it off across the weekend. But that is us in
the chamber today.
Speaker 1 (17:05):
This is Sportsfix your daily to those of Sports News
how and by News Talks EBB, and then I'll.
Speaker 2 (17:12):
Not get sports books on the head for today and
for the week as well. Thanks for listening, subscribing, downloading
a fresh episode on Monday. But heeps to talk about
on the radio across the weekend and in fact across
every weekdays.
Speaker 3 (17:23):
Yeah, indeed, if you'd like to join us on the radio,
you're more than welcome. It's talk back. It's between at
seven and eight pm Monday to Friday on News Talks
eb O eight hundred and eighty ten eighty or text
back at nine two ninety two. And I've got the
Tuesday Wedso Thursday Friday show. Piney you're in charge.
Speaker 2 (17:40):
Of Monday and on the weekends I get a bit
longer as well, which I greatly appreciate because it's more
chance to talk to more of you. Weekend Sport midday
until three on Saturday midday until three on Sunday.
Speaker 3 (17:53):
Have a great weekend US and don't forget the six
Hours of SPA and the World Endurance Championship. I had
to get some race cars in somewhere. Mate, Brendan Hartley's
performing right? Is that is that cool?
Speaker 2 (18:04):
It's cool with me? It's always cool with me?
Speaker 1 (18:08):
Or from News Talk set B Listen live on air
or online, and keep our shows with you wherever you
go with our podcasts on iHeartRadio
You're listening to a podcast from News Talks ed B
follow this and our wide range of podcasts now on iHeartRadio.
This is Sportsfix Howard by News Talks head be.
Speaker 2 (00:20):
Hello there, Welcome to the back end of the week
and the front end of another busy sporting weekend with
lots to talk. So we are here for you on
the Sports Fix podcast on Friday, the eighth of May.
Speaker 3 (00:30):
I'm Jason Pine and I'm Darcy Watergrave. Here for you,
poney fuck.
Speaker 2 (00:35):
I'd really rather prefer you are here for the listeners,
if I'm honest. It's good to have your support, though,
as we negotiate the beginning of another sporting weekend with
so much to look forward to, another round of Super Rugby,
which I think could be quite pivotal in terms of
their finishing positions. And know it's only one game for
these teams, but they are running out a runway, some
of them, including your Red and Blacks. Just quietly let's
(00:56):
talk about that a bit later on. The women's Phoenix
could make a Grand Final for the first time. We're
crossing the Tasman for a different voice today.
Speaker 3 (01:02):
Here we are got hold of Phil war very approachable
chief executive of Rugby Australia. It's took about the appointment
of a man he's going to be working very close with.
Of course, Steve Lancaster is that man, new CEO of
endz Ina. So Phil Water join us later here in
the podcast.
Speaker 2 (01:21):
Always an interesting guy to hear from. The latest and
sports news coming your way too, so let's get into it.
In other news, Let's get you underway as always with
a look at some of the big sports stories around today.
A Blues bomb squad bench has come as no surprise
to Crusaders captain David Harvilly ahead of tonight's Super Rugby
Darby and christ Jugeman, like Christy and Boden Barrett, are
(01:42):
among the reserves. Sam Knock and Stephen pett Effetta will
start for the Blues. But as I say David HARVILLI
is not too surprised about that.
Speaker 4 (01:49):
Bodian read the really good controllers of the game, So
then coming off the bench provides that in the later
half of the game, and I think the roof and
how quick the game's going to be, they'll be looking
to control that last sort of twenty minutes.
Speaker 2 (02:02):
Round ten of Rugby Legs NRL is underway the Dolphins
trouncing the Bulldogs forty four to twelve. Canterbury Cameron Serraaldo
knows where the blame lies.
Speaker 5 (02:11):
On the edges. We either decide not to stay in
system or decide to not put our body on the line.
And it's a costUS in our four. I feel so
sorry for our forwards because they just kept turning up
and ripping in and doing their job and then they
have that disappointment of setting me on the trail.
Speaker 2 (02:25):
One and Chris Wood and Nottingham Forest have been on
the receiving end of a stunning Aston Villa comeback in
Football's Europa League semi Finals. Trailing one nil heading into
their home return leg, Villa have powered through four unanswered
goals for a four to one aggregate victory. O.
Speaker 3 (02:42):
God's done well, here comes Rogers. Is this Hends moment,
It's beginning good, It's numberfore He's turning it.
Speaker 5 (02:49):
To a road us and a Vinion.
Speaker 1 (02:52):
It's Sports Fix with Jason Pine and Dusty Water.
Speaker 3 (02:55):
It's a welcome to the Sports Fixed podcast to the
Chief Executive of Rugby Australia, mister Phil war Hi. Phil,
We've got a new CEO here it ends Rugby's name
is Steve Langcaster, his you new best friend in world rugby.
I'd like to think what was your initial reaction when
you heard that he'd been given the nod.
Speaker 6 (03:17):
Yeah, I think it's a really exciting appointment. We've had
a great relationship since Steve stepped into the role and
working really closely with the new appointments in New Zealand rugby,
and you know, they feel like it's a very exciting
time for rugby, not just in Australia and New Zealand,
but just right across the region with obviously the Rugby
(03:38):
World Cup coming to Australia next year, Women's World Cup
in twenty nine, and so really important trust work basically
with New Zealand to maximize the opportunity.
Speaker 3 (03:46):
The strength of Southern Hemisphere rugby basically lies in your hands.
What's the key to that relationship and propping up these
competitions Super Rugby, the International as well into the future.
Speaker 2 (03:59):
Yeah.
Speaker 6 (03:59):
Well, ultimately we've got to be to be strong partners
and healthy partners and we're we're fully understanding of that,
and you know, how do we how do we come
together to ensure that Southern Hemisphere remained strong and if
you look at World Cup history and nine out of
the ten World customing won by Southern Hemisphere teams. So
really important for us to really lean in together and
(04:21):
we understand the competitive nature of our market, you know,
certainly the growth of AFL and the NRAL in our
markets and ensuring that we're putting a value proposition out
to athletes that ensures young boys and girls stay in
rugby and continue to flourish in rugby.
Speaker 3 (04:38):
Where are the areas do you think where you're very
closely aligned Australian and rugby, New Zelad rugby and of
course yourself and Steve was the great connection there do
you think, Phil Well?
Speaker 6 (04:49):
I think I think it's the connection between the community
game and the professional game. And if you look at
where it's been challenges in our markets, and I think
there's similar challenges in the New Zealand market. Is that
as professional rugby has got bigger and more time in it,
I think it's been a just location between the community
game and the professional game. And so you know what
we've been focusing on, certainly in the Australian market is
(05:11):
how do we bring the community game closer to the
professional game and close that gap. And given Steve's history
in New Zealand and the roles he's been in, he's
got a good understanding of that. And so we'll be
working really closely in coming together and bringing the community game, yes,
certainly much closer and into the same headspaces as a
professional game and looking at this one ultimately one game.
Speaker 3 (05:34):
Trade and information and IP whatever you want to call it.
Playing your leaning there the community game, he's been there
for a long time, shows great strength. What can New
Zealand Rugby and Steve glean from your side of the
Dutch field?
Speaker 6 (05:48):
Well, I think that you know, the competitive market that
is Australia is probably probably one of the most competitive
winter sporting markets in the world, and so certainly ensuring
that we've got to align value proposition so that we
can attract the best talent into our games. We understand
the importance of the international game and performing into matches
(06:09):
and winning trophies, and so yes, it's really important for
us to understand our value proposition and work together to
set that Apart from our competitors in particularly the NRL.
Speaker 3 (06:21):
There are going to be areas of debate. You can't
agree on anything if you do, there's something horribly wrong.
It's got to be robust debate between two of you guys.
Is there a big area? Do you think that maybe
you've got a lot of work to do in that
space in order to not necessarily aligned, but to talk
through issues that you may have. Where do they sit
right now? Phil?
Speaker 6 (06:43):
Yeah, I think we've obviously only sort of started in
a really close working relationship, and we're really excited with
the start that we've had, and it's been very constructive.
So you know, I think there's always going to be compromised.
You know, we're not going to see, you know, absolutely
eye to eye on every topic that I think. It's
around understanding and making sure that we come together to
(07:07):
make an aligned decision on what's best for the game
in our region. And I think that given see the
background and long history in the game and really successful
career across Moltiple organizations across multiple levels of the game,
I think you certainly got the subject their expertise in
most areas. So look, I think I think we'll be
(07:28):
a huge amount of compromises, a huge amount of respect. Yeah,
we want to be really transparent with our friends in
New Zealand and ensure that we're doing what's right for
the game in our region.
Speaker 3 (07:38):
Rugby Australia Chief Executive Phil war joining the program. You've
been in that role since I think twenty twenty three.
If you were to sit down with Steve and have
a couple of frothies and have some honest exchanges about
what happens, what would you tell him about being the
chief executive of a rugby nation. I suppose within Rugby?
(08:00):
What does he need to learn? What are the fish hooks,
what are the issues? What have you picked up in
the last few years that maybe you could share with
him to make it a smooth transition.
Speaker 6 (08:09):
I've had quite the journey on this side of that publicized.
So I'll put your mouth guard in and then strap
your ears, strap yours up, so just like he did
when he was playing. But now, look, I think you know,
as I always say, you know, you do, you do
what what's right for the game, and you work on
that basis and outcomes.
Speaker 2 (08:29):
Will be reasoning positive.
Speaker 6 (08:30):
So you know, as I said, I think that these
connections to the community game is a really important element
because ultimately, you know that the game starts and ends
in the community and ultimately we're big, big roles for
the national organizing body. But but really, you know, it's
a hug John be in our position and we're serving
for all those that support rugby in the community sports.
Speaker 2 (08:54):
Is there a more important player to his super rugby
team and to the All Blacks right now than Cam
roy Guard? The news during the week that roy Guard
had tweaked a calf muscle, what's the what's the cantlors
for an absolute outpouring of worry, of whaling, of gnashing
of teeth, not just for Hurricane supporters, but for all
(09:15):
Black supporters as well. If there's one guy who has
established a gap between himself and the next best in
his position, it is Cam Royguard. That is true at
All Blacks level, where the chasing pack includes the likes
of Cortes Latima, Noah Hotham and others who have designs
on the All Blacks number nine jersey. But it is
(09:36):
doubly even triply so at Hurricanes HQ. They are serviceable
backups the Hurricanes halfback cohort the likes of elitiari Enadi
and Jordi ville Yeern who will wear the nine and
twenty one jerseys respectively across the weekends when the Hurricanes
take on Mwana Pacific up. But with all due respect,
(09:58):
they are not cam Royguard. He has very quickly proven
himself to be a generational player, a generational halfback, a
player who can do things that really nobody else can do. So.
Hurricanes fans, when they heard this news, quickly raced to
their computers to check on the severity of it. How
(10:19):
long a calf injury normally takes to heal when cam
Royguard might be back. Of course, we had to do
without him for a large part of a season a
season ago when he picked up a very serious knee injury.
He rehapped quickly from that. I think we all were hoping, hoping,
with baited breath and with fingers crossed that it wouldn't
be anything like that, and by the sounds of it,
(10:40):
it's not. It's a calf tweak which might keep cam
Rougard out for three or four weeks. All going well,
he should be back, hopefully for the last game of
the regular season against the Crusaders under the Roof, and
then into the playoffs, which the Hurricanes have almost certainly
ensured that they will be a part of isn't it funny?
This is cam Roygard, who, earlier in his career couldn't
(11:00):
get an NPC. Gig Waikato looked at cam Rouygard and said,
we're not sure about you. I don't think we're going
to take the risk. Well, if you're fast forward a
few years, you find yourself in a situation where this player,
this one player is the most worried about at his
club and for his country.
Speaker 1 (11:21):
The Chamber is now in session on Sportsfax.
Speaker 2 (11:26):
Into the Chamber we go. We've heard about off field rugby.
Let's get into some on field rugby, starting in the
not too distant future tonight under that roof at Takaha
in christ Church, not a super round, but a super
game of super rugby. Crusaders v. Blues? Do you feel
us though your favorite? When I say you Crusaders fans,
(11:47):
do you feel us though you're your favorite? For this game?
Speaker 3 (11:49):
I'm wearing a Crusader's jersey right now, so you can
say you this is us. We are the Crusaders. Yeah,
I'd say so wobble last week, but even so close
short for maybe some indiudicious decisions. Is that the best
way to say it? From the referee could have won
that against the high flying Hurricane. So I think they're
(12:10):
in a good space under their roof for the second
time at the one New Zealand Stadium as it's correctly called,
I'm told at Takaha. I don't know if the Blues
have got the punch to carry on doing what they've
been doing over the last couple of weeks. Will this
pressure squash them? Do you think, Piney could?
Speaker 2 (12:27):
I look at the table and it just astonishes me.
And with apologies to our Blues supporting listeners on Sports Fix,
it's astonishing to me that the Blues are second. Yes,
I don't quite know how that has happened.
Speaker 3 (12:39):
Now, keep running well they do.
Speaker 2 (12:41):
Eight wins from eleven would tell you that story. But
I don't know dust They've never really been totally convincing
to me across that span. I think that the Hurricanes
and the Chiefs have had periods of good consistency. And look,
if the Chiefs win later on tonight and the Blues
don't win under the roof, then the Chiefs will supplant
them in second place. But I think you know, in
terms of consistency, I mean you'd freely admit the Crusaders
(13:05):
have been inconsistent. I think I think the Blues have
as well, haven't they even though they've won eight of
their eleven games.
Speaker 3 (13:11):
Well, let's look at the runway and you mentioned that
an introduction to the podcast today and he said, it's
getting very very short now toward the end of the season.
But when when is it the most important time of
the year to actually perform? What does everything lead up to?
And you know what I'm going to say here, they
need to start playing consistent best rugby when it actually counts,
(13:34):
and that is now or from quarterfinals onward. And I
suppose that's what the Blues have been looking toward, building toward.
And you're not going to string them up for inconsistent
results at the start of the season. You're going to
worry about what happens next, right.
Speaker 2 (13:49):
Yeah, you're right, You're dead right, You're did right. And look,
I feel as though both of these teams, Blues and Crusaders,
will be in the top six, they'll be in the playoffs.
But the last thing you want to do is limp
into the playoffs. You know, I look at the Blues,
I've got the Crusaders tonight could lose that, Hurricanes next
week could lose that, Chiefs the week after could lose that.
They could lose those three games similarly as have got
the Blues tonight, they've got the Chiefs next week and
(14:11):
the Hurricanes to finish, all at home. Admittedly, but they
could lose all three of those and still make the
top six. So I don't know if you want to
be limping into the playoffs.
Speaker 3 (14:18):
That you don't And isn't this good? And people do
have the temerity to complain about Super Rugby Pacific this
year and last year, which they should not. I don't
think they watch it. But the way it's been formulated
this year, the way the drawers operated this year, this
is mouth watering. Coming toward the very pointed end, all
these teams have an opportunity to really lay a stomach
(14:40):
punch or a blow to the jaw on their talented
opposition when it really counts. I don't think you hit
asked much more for much more than this in the
way things have actually shaped. And this is due to
the draw and what's Super Rugby Pacific have done.
Speaker 2 (14:53):
Yeah, the back end of the season is going to
be extremely watchable. I would say, starting under the roof
with the Crusaders against the Blues tonight. Can I mention
the Wellington Phoenix women's game on Sunday? By all means,
I've really enjoyed watching. I don't watch a lot of
football recent times. I've been watching a lot of football
that's New Zealand base because we've got teams doing really well.
Speaker 3 (15:13):
You've got to be proud of what the the Wahinis
have done so far. Yeah, but you add to it, mate,
you're the football dude.
Speaker 2 (15:19):
Well, I only wanted to mention it because they're on
the cusp of history. You know, this Wellington Phoenix club
has been around since two thousand and seven, the women
have been around for five seasons. Never before has a
men's or women's team from the club ever made a
Grand Final. The women's team could change that on Sunday. Yes,
they are too one down to Brisbane in the tie
after the two one loss in the away leg, but
(15:40):
I would fully back them to turn that around tomorrow
sorry on Sunday and earn their way into a Grand Final.
They played great football, their coach has been absolutely superb
and Bev Priestman, as you and I have spoken about
at length on Sports fixed us about the difference that
she's made. And I was out there today for their
final media session and all of the temporary seats have
(16:01):
been put in, They've increased the capacity. The ground is
looking a picture. I think it's all set up for
a bit of history on Sunday. I really would anybody
who has the ability to watch this, either live or
you like turning up to watch it, or they might
get a ticket now or watching on television to do
that because this is history. And I firmly believe that
on Sunday evening we'll be talking about a Phoenix women's
(16:22):
side that are into a Grand Final.
Speaker 3 (16:24):
I would love to hope. I would love to think
that that's the case. Maybe there's a mugging. I'm not
quite sure. When you come over the Tasman and it
is the return leg, there's a lot on the line
and I think home for this team, they like it here.
It could be trouble at Mill.
Speaker 2 (16:44):
He went to the northeast of England to finish. But
you've done it. I think that's not a bad way
to finish. I think where you look forward to rugby
across the weekend football as well. Let's not forget allklandfcgain
Saturllite you night a first leag of their semi tomorrow night. Gee,
so much to keep tabs on. We'll try and cover
it off across the weekend. But that is us in
the chamber today.
Speaker 1 (17:05):
This is Sportsfix your daily to those of Sports News
how and by News Talks EBB, and then I'll.
Speaker 2 (17:12):
Not get sports books on the head for today and
for the week as well. Thanks for listening, subscribing, downloading
a fresh episode on Monday. But heeps to talk about
on the radio across the weekend and in fact across
every weekdays.
Speaker 3 (17:23):
Yeah, indeed, if you'd like to join us on the radio,
you're more than welcome. It's talk back. It's between at
seven and eight pm Monday to Friday on News Talks
eb O eight hundred and eighty ten eighty or text
back at nine two ninety two. And I've got the
Tuesday Wedso Thursday Friday show. Piney you're in charge.
Speaker 2 (17:40):
Of Monday and on the weekends I get a bit
longer as well, which I greatly appreciate because it's more
chance to talk to more of you. Weekend Sport midday
until three on Saturday midday until three on Sunday.
Speaker 3 (17:53):
Have a great weekend US and don't forget the six
Hours of SPA and the World Endurance Championship. I had
to get some race cars in somewhere. Mate, Brendan Hartley's
performing right? Is that is that cool?
Speaker 2 (18:04):
It's cool with me? It's always cool with me?
Speaker 1 (18:08):
Or from News Talk set B Listen live on air
or online, and keep our shows with you wherever you
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