October 5, 2025 • 19 mins
On Sports Fix with Jason Pine for 6th October 2025, the All Blacks defeated the Wallabies 28-14 in Perth on Saturday night, registering back to back wins in the Rugby Championship for the first time in 2025. A standout in the squad was Quinn Tupaea who played his first match at centre for the All Blacks and he looked a natural. Could he be the long term solution at centre for the All Blacks? Piney spoke with former All Black centre Frank Bunce to discuss.
Piney shared his thoughts on the latest in the Dame Noeline Taurua situation.
And Piney and Newstalk ZB head of sport Clay Wilson discuss the All Blacks' performance on Saturday night and the NRL grand final.
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Speaker 1 (00:09):
You're listening to a podcast from News Talks EDB. Follow
this and our wide range of podcasts now on iHeartRadio.
This is Sportsfix Howard by News Talks EDB.
Speaker 2 (00:20):
Hi There, Welcome into a new week. Welcome into a
fresh episode of the Sports Fixed podcast and association with GJ.
Gardner Holmes, New Zealand's most trusted home builder. Monday, October
sixth I'm Jason Pineape. You had a good weekend, Quinta
Pia had a very good weekend and a very first
appearance in the All Blacks number thirteen jersey on Saturday
(00:41):
night in that p Ledislow Cup test, the standout in
a black jersey in the eyes of many. So is
he now the long term solution at center for the
All Blacks, one of the best to ever wear that jersey.
Frank Bunts going to join us on Sports Fix to
chew that over. I'll jump aside the chamber with Clay
Wilson to talk at Rugbat's talk net Forland to talk
it to the NRL as well the latest and sports
(01:03):
news too. So let's get into it. In other news,
Let's get things up. The way is always with a
look at some of the big sports stories around today.
The Broncos are NRL champions, coming from behind to win
last night's Grand final the sad Ago.
Speaker 1 (01:21):
Nineteen.
Speaker 2 (01:23):
The Broncos up back on top of the regular world threes,
Walsh conjuring up one of the great performances in a
final to break Brisbane's nineteen year premiership trout a twenty
six twenty two win over the Melbourne Storm. George Russell
has secured Formula one's Singapore Grand Prix for Mercedes, with
Red Bulls Max for staff and second on a day
(01:44):
though where the Constructors' Championship was decided.
Speaker 3 (01:47):
McLaren are Constructors Champions in twenty and twenty five for
the second year running.
Speaker 2 (01:54):
And new Nottingham Forest football boss and pastor Corglu has
been bullish in the face of questions about whether his
tenure at the Premier League club will be a short
one a two new loss of way at Newcastle means
they're now winless in seven man since poster Cod Blue
took over.
Speaker 4 (02:10):
People outside don't think I'm the right person or even
internally think it makes any difference from me. I took
this role on knowing it will be a massive challenge
with changing the direction of the club. Nothing I've seen
in the last three and a half weeks has changed.
By view.
Speaker 1 (02:27):
Dissecting the sporting agenda, It's Sportsfix with Jason Vine.
Speaker 2 (02:32):
You're listening to the Sports Flex podcast. As the All
Blacks beat Australia on Saturday night in Perth, the standout
performer in the eyes of many was Quinn to Pia.
In his first test starting at center, he scored a
couple of tries and had a strong all round game.
So is he now the long term solution at center
for the All Blacks? One of the best to ever
do it. Frank Buntz fifty five test matches, sixty nine
(02:52):
games in total for the Abs. Frank, thanks for joining us.
What did you make first of all of Quinta Pire's
performance on Saturday night?
Speaker 5 (02:59):
Ah, I loved it. You know, we've been we've been
sort of waiting a little bit, you know, for oh,
you know what will he propped her really to fire
and and you know, Quintupie got his chance and took
it with you know, with open arms. And then really,
(03:22):
you know, he he was involved in everything. So I
was I was really I was really happy, you know,
And and for a guy to to have come back
from from what he did. You know, it's a long
journey back for such a serious injury, and you know,
to get his opportunity and then and then take it was. Yeah,
(03:43):
it was awesome to watch.
Speaker 2 (03:44):
What did you like most about what you saw from
him on Saturday?
Speaker 5 (03:50):
I I like the fact that he was you know,
he stood out, he went, he was looking for work.
You know, he was making break you know, just just
I think, you know, nothing, I wouldn't say there was
anything specific, but you know, he was, he was involved.
I just liked the way that he was. He was
(04:11):
in a lot of the play. You know, he made
ground when he carried the ball. You know, his passing
was good. Is he just had a real good all
round I think contribution.
Speaker 2 (04:23):
He himself said that he was quite surprised when the
coaches said to him, how you're playing center. We've only
really seen him at Super rugby and for the All
Blacks as a second five. How interchangeable are twelve and thirteen?
Speaker 5 (04:39):
They're they're well, they're interchangeable for some. You know, it's
easier for some people than others. I think I think,
you know, in this day and age, things have changed
a little bit, and I did hear. I can't remember
who said it actually, but you know, Jeff Wilson or
Milsey or someone like that, you know, had said that
(05:02):
it was the style of the game that was kind
of hindering, you know, Billy Proctor, And I see that.
You know, I don't think I don't think a center's
role is you know, is the same as it used
to be. Necessarily, you obviously still want someone who can
who can distribute the ball well, who can set up
as outsides. Do you know when he when he needs to?
(05:26):
And yeah, I'm not taking away from Billy Proctery there
because I you know, I've seen him do that. But
I think test level again is another level up, and
you know, you're just under a whole lot more pressure.
But you know, in terms of in terms of you know,
couldn't I forgot the first what was your question?
Speaker 2 (05:48):
No, No, not at all. I was just really interested
to know about the adjustment from twelve to thirteen, because
for me, it looked like he made it seamlessly. You know,
I know you played a bit of twelve, but mainly thirteen.
So I just just wonder whether you know, some guys
play one or the other, don't they Some like Anton
Lena Brown can play both. I just wonder, like, is
it more challenging with ball and hand? Do you have
(06:08):
to learn different defensive patterns? For example, when you're when
you're defending, Yeah.
Speaker 5 (06:14):
Yeah, it's it's well, you know it doesn't sound right,
but it's the same. But it's different. You know, you
have you're under a bit more pressure because you're closer
in you know, when you're playing at twelve, you're closer
to the defense. You're you're closer to you know, the
loose forwards can get to you, you know, the just
two or three steps closer, So you have to make decisions,
(06:38):
you know, very very quickly. But I think I think
I ended up as a as an outside tender, you know,
plaid second five and never liked it because you were
under that pressure and you didn't get the room that
you know, someone like me needed. You just have a
little bit more time, a little bit more, a little
bit more space, you know, before the defense gets to you.
(07:02):
So I think it's that type of person. I guess
it depends a bit on what type of person you are, too.
I just like I preferred that rather than the closer
you know, and probably more physical role of a second
five because you know you're right there, You're there for
the taking, but you know it's up to you to
take the ball up up to you to carry into
you know, into you know, some of the bigger loose
(07:24):
forwards that are that are going around. So yeah, different
different positions name, but different and you need to be
a you know, I think, a different type of player actually, and.
Speaker 2 (07:36):
The hallmark of all great centers like yourself, Joe Stanley
before you, Conrad Smith after you always had the ability
with ball in hand to put their outsides into space.
I know, it's it's it's perhaps more difficult now with
defensive patterns being different. But what was the key What
is the key to making space for your outsides?
Speaker 5 (07:58):
I think it is it is vision. You know that
you can see, you can see things that that opportunities
that open you can see. You know, it's it's the vision.
It's it's seeing the not necessarily that it is going
to happen, it's the possibility of something you know, happening.
(08:19):
So I think I think it is a it is
more a vision aspect to the game in saying that
you know, when you're playing at twelve, you don't get
a you don't get a you know, like a chance
really to you know, to have a lock outside, to
take the time to to have a look at see
where they're with their you know, the opposition is standing
(08:41):
and what's likely. You know, it's all about figuring out
where people are, where they aren't. You know, what holds,
what what might occur. You know, it's it's all of
that thing and it sometimes you have to do that
all in the space of a few seconds. Sometimes it works,
sometimes it doesn't.
Speaker 2 (08:57):
Well, he certainly marked himself out as an option in
both the twelve and now the third end Jumper. Thanks Frank,
I appreciate your time. Frank Bunce joining us on sports fixing.
Speaker 1 (09:08):
The sporting agenda. It's sportsfex with Jason Vine.
Speaker 2 (09:12):
Look, I hate to break this to you, and actually
I'm pretty sure you've worked it out for yourself. Perhaps,
but I think it's fairly obvious now that Dame Nolen
Todoua won't be coming back to coach the Silver Ferns.
If she and Neple New Zealand haven't been able to
work through the issues that have arisen despite days of mediation,
then they're not going to be able to. They've clearly
(09:33):
reached an impasse. There are points over which the two
parties simply cannot reach agreement or even reach compromise. On
CEO Jenny Wiley wouldn't confirm yesterday that mediation will even continue.
If it doesn't, then what what next. Dame Nolen released
a statement on Saturday. She said, I cared deeply about
(09:53):
the Silver Ferns and want to be back coaching the team.
I've seen the media statement issued by Nepball New Zealand
setting out their views. My views are different, that's the
end of the quote. Her views are different. So if
we look at the New Zealand Nepball state and it says,
despite considerable and genuine effort from Netborn, New Zealand and
Dame Nolen Todoa, a resolution regarding the Silver Ferns high
(10:16):
Performance program and environment has not yet been reached. Well,
that's not a view, that's a fact. It's the next
bit though. It says from Netborn, New Zealand. Over the
past few weeks, Netburn, New Zealand has pursued every pathway
with Dame Nolen to bring her back into the Silver
Ferns environment at this time. Netborn, New Zealand is disappointed
that this has not been possible. Well, Dame Nolean says
(10:38):
her views are different, so presumably she believes that they
haven't pursued every pathway. Look, whatever you believe, whoever you believe,
whoever you think is at fault here, whatever you think
of the process, this is an unfortunate and quite frankly,
extremely sad series of events enveloping one of our biggest sports,
(11:02):
a division in the Silver Ferns, over the way they're
coached and the way they're coached by one of our
greatest ever. I just now feel a sense of great
sadness for those involved in the sport. And as I say,
it seems highly unlikely now that Dame Nolene will ever
coach the Silver Ferns again. She clearly wants to, many
(11:22):
of the players want her to. The weight of public
opinion feels like it's on her side. But I just
can't see, given the events of the last few days
and what we heard from Jenny Wiley yesterday and what
I've read in the statements, that there is a way back.
Sometimes agreement can't be reached, and employment matters in relationship matters.
Sometimes things just can't be worked through.
Speaker 1 (11:45):
The chamber is now in session on Sportsfix.
Speaker 2 (11:48):
You're listening to the Sports Fix podcast, and into the
chamber we go to kick around a couple of sporting issues.
What a delight, What an honor to have sports editor
at news Talk, said be Clay Wilson Poppin. Hello, mate,
thanks for having me Piney, It's good to have you
on board. Can we start with the All Blacks Saturday
night they beat Australia, so back to back test when
in the Rugby Championship for the first time. I don't
(12:11):
think they would say it was an absolutely banner performance.
But what did you make of it? And how should
we feel about the All Blacks Rugby Championship campaign?
Speaker 5 (12:21):
Well?
Speaker 3 (12:22):
Was it an improvement on Eden Park? Maybe? But then again,
kind of the All Black bar this year isn't as
high as it would you would normally hold it by
All Black standards, is it? You know? It was a
stop start game of rugby. I saw a good comment
from someone that said, out of all the All Blacks
games I've watched, that was one of them, and I
think that kind of sums it up. It wasn't a
(12:44):
game that's going to go down in memory outside from
a couple of standout performances here or there. So what
does it say in terms of where they are? I
don't really know. It's hard to say because it has
been such an up and down year. I guess they
were in terms of being consistent from week to week.
This was their most sort of consistent performance in terms
(13:05):
of backing up from Eden Park. But it still wasn't
you know, that kind of breakthrough, scintillating performance that everyone's
been looking for from the All Blacks. And I think
that probably says a bit about where they actually are
going into this break and then ahead to the Northern Tour.
Speaker 2 (13:19):
Look. I totally agree, Clay. I totally agree with everything
you've said there. And I look at the record that
the All Blacks have fashioned in twenty twenty five, and
that is nine Test matches now the three against France
and then the Rugby Championship. They've won seven of those nine.
There are four to go Ireland, Scotland, England Wales. If
they would have win those four then that would give
them eleven Test wins from thirteen this year. Last year
(13:43):
they won ten of fourteen. So it's you know if
they were to lose one of those tests, it would
be ten from thirteen. Let's say, hypothetically they lose to
Ireland or lose to England, they would be ten wins
from thirteen off the back of ten from fourteen last year.
I know results are only one part of it, but
has this All Blacks team actually improved in the last
eighteen to twenty four months.
Speaker 3 (14:06):
You know, I don't think they have. And that's not
to say they've played poorly all the time. I mean
that result in Wellington obviously jumps out as one where
they were very poor. But I struggle to see where
this team has actually improved from last season under this
coaching team, under Scott Robertson. Now, like you say, the
Northern Two is coming up, they could go and win
all four of those games. But I'm looking less at
(14:28):
the numbers and more how this team is playing. Because
they've beaten Australia back to back, but I can't say
I've really been overly enamored with either of those performances. Yes,
have they been okay, have they been great in patches
for sure, But we're so used to this All Blacks
team being dominant in a lot of the games they
play and we just haven't seen that in the last
couple of years. They're going to need to go away
(14:50):
when all these four games are up in the UK
and then also performed to a level that's going to
keep people a bit more satisfied, I think in terms
of the way they're playing how you know how while
they're playing across the eighty minutes and and sort of
holding holding other teams at bay, because at the moment
(15:11):
these games are ebbing and flowing, aren't they. While they've
won these last two, the Wallabies certainly had their moments
and I think that's been true for all the All
Blacks games largely in twenty twenty five.
Speaker 2 (15:20):
Is it quite telling as well that when we review
All Blacks wins we tend to focus on individuals rather
than on the team. We look at the game on
the weekend and there's a lot of talk about Quinta Pia.
The previous week at eden Park, there were rave reviews
about cam Royguard. When we beat South Africa at eden Park,
it was all about Ardie Savia and is one hundredth
(15:41):
in our Hercule and he was that night. We're not saying, hey,
this is an amazing All Blacks back line that's functioning
perfectly and scoring lots of tries, or a forward pack
that is utterly dominant against all comers. I feel like
we're talking more about individuals than about the team.
Speaker 3 (15:56):
I think it's a very salient point. And what are
the All Blacks known as throughout history? They are known
as a great team, yes, a team that's always had
great players, but primarily as a great team. And I
think you've hit the nail on the head. It says
a lot about where the All Blacks are that in
a lot of these games we're talking about one or
two individuals as opposed to how the team performed, because
(16:18):
that consistency from game to game and within games just
hasn't been there. So you can't really talk too much
about how the team is performing outside of looking at
things where you know things aren't working and things need
to improve.
Speaker 2 (16:32):
So yeah, I think you bang on. Let's move to
the NROL Grand Final. Last night done, all done for
twenty twenty five the NRL season. I thought it was
a brilliant Grand Final, terrific climax to what has been
a pretty intriguing season. I think a lot of people
you know, without his skin in the game, probably thought
Melbourne were favorites going in, but they didn't count on
(16:52):
Reecee Walsh, or if they did, they didn't count heavily
enough on them, because that was from Reese Walsh. A
performance for the Ages, the Clive Churchill Medal and done.
I don't know. I was quite happy to see Brisbane
beat the Storm. I remember the old days. This is
probably before your time, but the days of you know,
Alan Lang and Wally Lewis and Steve Runoff doing great
things for the Broncos. Good to have them break their
nineteen year NRL title drought last night, wasn't it.
Speaker 3 (17:17):
Yeah. I think that will surprise a lot of people
that it's been that long since the Broncos have won
a title. But you know, this is a storied club,
a club that's had huge success in this competition. To
not win the competition for nigh on twenty years, to
break through and win it is a big moment and
I think you're right. You know a lot of people
would have said the Storm, with favorites coming in, had
a more consistencies in a bit of an easier run
(17:38):
in perhaps, But yeah, look, I mean twenty two twelve
down at halftime. You're back in the Melbourne storman in
a Grand Final, aren't you. You're saying, this is a
Craig Bellamy side. They're going to close this out. And
you know a great team, but man, Reese Walsh, if
there's one, you know, one man who could take the
game by the scruff of the neck and do things
(18:00):
that you know Melbourne couldn't account for, it was going
to be him. And you know, I listened to Ryan
Pappenhausen during the week speaking and you know, we got
our about Reese Walsh's opposite and he said, you know,
he's just that type of player where you're not going
to stop him from doing brilliant things. You have to
limit him. And it was just one of those nights
where they simply couldn't limit him in terms of what
he'd done. He was he was just doing everything, wasn't
(18:22):
He was everywhere, he was passing, running, he was popping
up in all bits of the field and then and
then a try saving tackle in that final player of
the game there. Man, I struggle to remember a more
you know, standout performance in a Grand Final than something
like that. And you look back as a you know
Warriors fans here, and you say, and I know the
circumstances of his departure. Perhaps we're out of their control.
(18:43):
But uh, what a phenomenal player and at twenty three,
what a height to reach in your career. Man, what
is his ceilings as a league player? It's just just
a magnificent ef it.
Speaker 2 (18:53):
Indeed, I guess we were about to find out over
the next few years. Clay, great chatting sport with you
in the chamber. Thanks for stopping in today, No worries,
Thanks pining.
Speaker 1 (19:00):
Leading a vex. We've got just the ticket. It's Sports
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Speaker 2 (19:06):
IVY and that'll blow the final. We're still on sport
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(19:28):
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Speaker 1 (19:38):
For more from News Talks, EDB, listen live on air
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You're listening to a podcast from News Talks EDB. Follow
this and our wide range of podcasts now on iHeartRadio.
This is Sportsfix Howard by News Talks EDB.
Speaker 2 (00:20):
Hi There, Welcome into a new week. Welcome into a
fresh episode of the Sports Fixed podcast and association with GJ.
Gardner Holmes, New Zealand's most trusted home builder. Monday, October
sixth I'm Jason Pineape. You had a good weekend, Quinta
Pia had a very good weekend and a very first
appearance in the All Blacks number thirteen jersey on Saturday
(00:41):
night in that p Ledislow Cup test, the standout in
a black jersey in the eyes of many. So is
he now the long term solution at center for the
All Blacks, one of the best to ever wear that jersey.
Frank Bunts going to join us on Sports Fix to
chew that over. I'll jump aside the chamber with Clay
Wilson to talk at Rugbat's talk net Forland to talk
it to the NRL as well the latest and sports
(01:03):
news too. So let's get into it. In other news,
Let's get things up. The way is always with a
look at some of the big sports stories around today.
The Broncos are NRL champions, coming from behind to win
last night's Grand final the sad Ago.
Speaker 1 (01:21):
Nineteen.
Speaker 2 (01:23):
The Broncos up back on top of the regular world threes,
Walsh conjuring up one of the great performances in a
final to break Brisbane's nineteen year premiership trout a twenty
six twenty two win over the Melbourne Storm. George Russell
has secured Formula one's Singapore Grand Prix for Mercedes, with
Red Bulls Max for staff and second on a day
(01:44):
though where the Constructors' Championship was decided.
Speaker 3 (01:47):
McLaren are Constructors Champions in twenty and twenty five for
the second year running.
Speaker 2 (01:54):
And new Nottingham Forest football boss and pastor Corglu has
been bullish in the face of questions about whether his
tenure at the Premier League club will be a short
one a two new loss of way at Newcastle means
they're now winless in seven man since poster Cod Blue
took over.
Speaker 4 (02:10):
People outside don't think I'm the right person or even
internally think it makes any difference from me. I took
this role on knowing it will be a massive challenge
with changing the direction of the club. Nothing I've seen
in the last three and a half weeks has changed.
By view.
Speaker 1 (02:27):
Dissecting the sporting agenda, It's Sportsfix with Jason Vine.
Speaker 2 (02:32):
You're listening to the Sports Flex podcast. As the All
Blacks beat Australia on Saturday night in Perth, the standout
performer in the eyes of many was Quinn to Pia.
In his first test starting at center, he scored a
couple of tries and had a strong all round game.
So is he now the long term solution at center
for the All Blacks? One of the best to ever
do it. Frank Buntz fifty five test matches, sixty nine
(02:52):
games in total for the Abs. Frank, thanks for joining us.
What did you make first of all of Quinta Pire's
performance on Saturday night?
Speaker 5 (02:59):
Ah, I loved it. You know, we've been we've been
sort of waiting a little bit, you know, for oh,
you know what will he propped her really to fire
and and you know, Quintupie got his chance and took
it with you know, with open arms. And then really,
(03:22):
you know, he he was involved in everything. So I
was I was really I was really happy, you know,
And and for a guy to to have come back
from from what he did. You know, it's a long
journey back for such a serious injury, and you know,
to get his opportunity and then and then take it was. Yeah,
(03:43):
it was awesome to watch.
Speaker 2 (03:44):
What did you like most about what you saw from
him on Saturday?
Speaker 5 (03:50):
I I like the fact that he was you know,
he stood out, he went, he was looking for work.
You know, he was making break you know, just just
I think, you know, nothing, I wouldn't say there was
anything specific, but you know, he was, he was involved.
I just liked the way that he was. He was
(04:11):
in a lot of the play. You know, he made
ground when he carried the ball. You know, his passing
was good. Is he just had a real good all
round I think contribution.
Speaker 2 (04:23):
He himself said that he was quite surprised when the
coaches said to him, how you're playing center. We've only
really seen him at Super rugby and for the All
Blacks as a second five. How interchangeable are twelve and thirteen?
Speaker 5 (04:39):
They're they're well, they're interchangeable for some. You know, it's
easier for some people than others. I think I think,
you know, in this day and age, things have changed
a little bit, and I did hear. I can't remember
who said it actually, but you know, Jeff Wilson or
Milsey or someone like that, you know, had said that
(05:02):
it was the style of the game that was kind
of hindering, you know, Billy Proctor, And I see that.
You know, I don't think I don't think a center's
role is you know, is the same as it used
to be. Necessarily, you obviously still want someone who can
who can distribute the ball well, who can set up
as outsides. Do you know when he when he needs to?
(05:26):
And yeah, I'm not taking away from Billy Proctery there
because I you know, I've seen him do that. But
I think test level again is another level up, and
you know, you're just under a whole lot more pressure.
But you know, in terms of in terms of you know,
couldn't I forgot the first what was your question?
Speaker 2 (05:48):
No, No, not at all. I was just really interested
to know about the adjustment from twelve to thirteen, because
for me, it looked like he made it seamlessly. You know,
I know you played a bit of twelve, but mainly thirteen.
So I just just wonder whether you know, some guys
play one or the other, don't they Some like Anton
Lena Brown can play both. I just wonder, like, is
it more challenging with ball and hand? Do you have
(06:08):
to learn different defensive patterns? For example, when you're when
you're defending, Yeah.
Speaker 5 (06:14):
Yeah, it's it's well, you know it doesn't sound right,
but it's the same. But it's different. You know, you
have you're under a bit more pressure because you're closer
in you know, when you're playing at twelve, you're closer
to the defense. You're you're closer to you know, the
loose forwards can get to you, you know, the just
two or three steps closer, So you have to make decisions,
(06:38):
you know, very very quickly. But I think I think
I ended up as a as an outside tender, you know,
plaid second five and never liked it because you were
under that pressure and you didn't get the room that
you know, someone like me needed. You just have a
little bit more time, a little bit more, a little
bit more space, you know, before the defense gets to you.
(07:02):
So I think it's that type of person. I guess
it depends a bit on what type of person you are, too.
I just like I preferred that rather than the closer
you know, and probably more physical role of a second
five because you know you're right there, You're there for
the taking, but you know it's up to you to
take the ball up up to you to carry into
you know, into you know, some of the bigger loose
(07:24):
forwards that are that are going around. So yeah, different
different positions name, but different and you need to be
a you know, I think, a different type of player actually, and.
Speaker 2 (07:36):
The hallmark of all great centers like yourself, Joe Stanley
before you, Conrad Smith after you always had the ability
with ball in hand to put their outsides into space.
I know, it's it's it's perhaps more difficult now with
defensive patterns being different. But what was the key What
is the key to making space for your outsides?
Speaker 5 (07:58):
I think it is it is vision. You know that
you can see, you can see things that that opportunities
that open you can see. You know, it's it's the vision.
It's it's seeing the not necessarily that it is going
to happen, it's the possibility of something you know, happening.
(08:19):
So I think I think it is a it is
more a vision aspect to the game in saying that
you know, when you're playing at twelve, you don't get
a you don't get a you know, like a chance
really to you know, to have a lock outside, to
take the time to to have a look at see
where they're with their you know, the opposition is standing
(08:41):
and what's likely. You know, it's all about figuring out
where people are, where they aren't. You know, what holds,
what what might occur. You know, it's it's all of
that thing and it sometimes you have to do that
all in the space of a few seconds. Sometimes it works,
sometimes it doesn't.
Speaker 2 (08:57):
Well, he certainly marked himself out as an option in
both the twelve and now the third end Jumper. Thanks Frank,
I appreciate your time. Frank Bunce joining us on sports fixing.
Speaker 1 (09:08):
The sporting agenda. It's sportsfex with Jason Vine.
Speaker 2 (09:12):
Look, I hate to break this to you, and actually
I'm pretty sure you've worked it out for yourself. Perhaps,
but I think it's fairly obvious now that Dame Nolen
Todoua won't be coming back to coach the Silver Ferns.
If she and Neple New Zealand haven't been able to
work through the issues that have arisen despite days of mediation,
then they're not going to be able to. They've clearly
(09:33):
reached an impasse. There are points over which the two
parties simply cannot reach agreement or even reach compromise. On
CEO Jenny Wiley wouldn't confirm yesterday that mediation will even continue.
If it doesn't, then what what next. Dame Nolen released
a statement on Saturday. She said, I cared deeply about
(09:53):
the Silver Ferns and want to be back coaching the team.
I've seen the media statement issued by Nepball New Zealand
setting out their views. My views are different, that's the
end of the quote. Her views are different. So if
we look at the New Zealand Nepball state and it says,
despite considerable and genuine effort from Netborn, New Zealand and
Dame Nolen Todoa, a resolution regarding the Silver Ferns high
(10:16):
Performance program and environment has not yet been reached. Well,
that's not a view, that's a fact. It's the next
bit though. It says from Netborn, New Zealand. Over the
past few weeks, Netburn, New Zealand has pursued every pathway
with Dame Nolen to bring her back into the Silver
Ferns environment at this time. Netborn, New Zealand is disappointed
that this has not been possible. Well, Dame Nolean says
(10:38):
her views are different, so presumably she believes that they
haven't pursued every pathway. Look, whatever you believe, whoever you believe,
whoever you think is at fault here, whatever you think
of the process, this is an unfortunate and quite frankly,
extremely sad series of events enveloping one of our biggest sports,
(11:02):
a division in the Silver Ferns, over the way they're
coached and the way they're coached by one of our
greatest ever. I just now feel a sense of great
sadness for those involved in the sport. And as I say,
it seems highly unlikely now that Dame Nolene will ever
coach the Silver Ferns again. She clearly wants to, many
(11:22):
of the players want her to. The weight of public
opinion feels like it's on her side. But I just
can't see, given the events of the last few days
and what we heard from Jenny Wiley yesterday and what
I've read in the statements, that there is a way back.
Sometimes agreement can't be reached, and employment matters in relationship matters.
Sometimes things just can't be worked through.
Speaker 1 (11:45):
The chamber is now in session on Sportsfix.
Speaker 2 (11:48):
You're listening to the Sports Fix podcast, and into the
chamber we go to kick around a couple of sporting issues.
What a delight, What an honor to have sports editor
at news Talk, said be Clay Wilson Poppin. Hello, mate,
thanks for having me Piney, It's good to have you
on board. Can we start with the All Blacks Saturday
night they beat Australia, so back to back test when
in the Rugby Championship for the first time. I don't
(12:11):
think they would say it was an absolutely banner performance.
But what did you make of it? And how should
we feel about the All Blacks Rugby Championship campaign?
Speaker 5 (12:21):
Well?
Speaker 3 (12:22):
Was it an improvement on Eden Park? Maybe? But then again,
kind of the All Black bar this year isn't as
high as it would you would normally hold it by
All Black standards, is it? You know? It was a
stop start game of rugby. I saw a good comment
from someone that said, out of all the All Blacks
games I've watched, that was one of them, and I
think that kind of sums it up. It wasn't a
(12:44):
game that's going to go down in memory outside from
a couple of standout performances here or there. So what
does it say in terms of where they are? I
don't really know. It's hard to say because it has
been such an up and down year. I guess they
were in terms of being consistent from week to week.
This was their most sort of consistent performance in terms
(13:05):
of backing up from Eden Park. But it still wasn't
you know, that kind of breakthrough, scintillating performance that everyone's
been looking for from the All Blacks. And I think
that probably says a bit about where they actually are
going into this break and then ahead to the Northern Tour.
Speaker 2 (13:19):
Look. I totally agree, Clay. I totally agree with everything
you've said there. And I look at the record that
the All Blacks have fashioned in twenty twenty five, and
that is nine Test matches now the three against France
and then the Rugby Championship. They've won seven of those nine.
There are four to go Ireland, Scotland, England Wales. If
they would have win those four then that would give
them eleven Test wins from thirteen this year. Last year
(13:43):
they won ten of fourteen. So it's you know if
they were to lose one of those tests, it would
be ten from thirteen. Let's say, hypothetically they lose to
Ireland or lose to England, they would be ten wins
from thirteen off the back of ten from fourteen last year.
I know results are only one part of it, but
has this All Blacks team actually improved in the last
eighteen to twenty four months.
Speaker 3 (14:06):
You know, I don't think they have. And that's not
to say they've played poorly all the time. I mean
that result in Wellington obviously jumps out as one where
they were very poor. But I struggle to see where
this team has actually improved from last season under this
coaching team, under Scott Robertson. Now, like you say, the
Northern Two is coming up, they could go and win
all four of those games. But I'm looking less at
(14:28):
the numbers and more how this team is playing. Because
they've beaten Australia back to back, but I can't say
I've really been overly enamored with either of those performances. Yes,
have they been okay, have they been great in patches
for sure, But we're so used to this All Blacks
team being dominant in a lot of the games they
play and we just haven't seen that in the last
couple of years. They're going to need to go away
(14:50):
when all these four games are up in the UK
and then also performed to a level that's going to
keep people a bit more satisfied, I think in terms
of the way they're playing how you know how while
they're playing across the eighty minutes and and sort of
holding holding other teams at bay, because at the moment
(15:11):
these games are ebbing and flowing, aren't they. While they've
won these last two, the Wallabies certainly had their moments
and I think that's been true for all the All
Blacks games largely in twenty twenty five.
Speaker 2 (15:20):
Is it quite telling as well that when we review
All Blacks wins we tend to focus on individuals rather
than on the team. We look at the game on
the weekend and there's a lot of talk about Quinta Pia.
The previous week at eden Park, there were rave reviews
about cam Royguard. When we beat South Africa at eden Park,
it was all about Ardie Savia and is one hundredth
(15:41):
in our Hercule and he was that night. We're not saying, hey,
this is an amazing All Blacks back line that's functioning
perfectly and scoring lots of tries, or a forward pack
that is utterly dominant against all comers. I feel like
we're talking more about individuals than about the team.
Speaker 3 (15:56):
I think it's a very salient point. And what are
the All Blacks known as throughout history? They are known
as a great team, yes, a team that's always had
great players, but primarily as a great team. And I
think you've hit the nail on the head. It says
a lot about where the All Blacks are that in
a lot of these games we're talking about one or
two individuals as opposed to how the team performed, because
(16:18):
that consistency from game to game and within games just
hasn't been there. So you can't really talk too much
about how the team is performing outside of looking at
things where you know things aren't working and things need
to improve.
Speaker 2 (16:32):
So yeah, I think you bang on. Let's move to
the NROL Grand Final. Last night done, all done for
twenty twenty five the NRL season. I thought it was
a brilliant Grand Final, terrific climax to what has been
a pretty intriguing season. I think a lot of people
you know, without his skin in the game, probably thought
Melbourne were favorites going in, but they didn't count on
(16:52):
Reecee Walsh, or if they did, they didn't count heavily
enough on them, because that was from Reese Walsh. A
performance for the Ages, the Clive Churchill Medal and done.
I don't know. I was quite happy to see Brisbane
beat the Storm. I remember the old days. This is
probably before your time, but the days of you know,
Alan Lang and Wally Lewis and Steve Runoff doing great
things for the Broncos. Good to have them break their
nineteen year NRL title drought last night, wasn't it.
Speaker 3 (17:17):
Yeah. I think that will surprise a lot of people
that it's been that long since the Broncos have won
a title. But you know, this is a storied club,
a club that's had huge success in this competition. To
not win the competition for nigh on twenty years, to
break through and win it is a big moment and
I think you're right. You know a lot of people
would have said the Storm, with favorites coming in, had
a more consistencies in a bit of an easier run
(17:38):
in perhaps, But yeah, look, I mean twenty two twelve
down at halftime. You're back in the Melbourne storman in
a Grand Final, aren't you. You're saying, this is a
Craig Bellamy side. They're going to close this out. And
you know a great team, but man, Reese Walsh, if
there's one, you know, one man who could take the
game by the scruff of the neck and do things
(18:00):
that you know Melbourne couldn't account for, it was going
to be him. And you know, I listened to Ryan
Pappenhausen during the week speaking and you know, we got
our about Reese Walsh's opposite and he said, you know,
he's just that type of player where you're not going
to stop him from doing brilliant things. You have to
limit him. And it was just one of those nights
where they simply couldn't limit him in terms of what
he'd done. He was he was just doing everything, wasn't
(18:22):
He was everywhere, he was passing, running, he was popping
up in all bits of the field and then and
then a try saving tackle in that final player of
the game there. Man, I struggle to remember a more
you know, standout performance in a Grand Final than something
like that. And you look back as a you know
Warriors fans here, and you say, and I know the
circumstances of his departure. Perhaps we're out of their control.
(18:43):
But uh, what a phenomenal player and at twenty three,
what a height to reach in your career. Man, what
is his ceilings as a league player? It's just just
a magnificent ef it.
Speaker 2 (18:53):
Indeed, I guess we were about to find out over
the next few years. Clay, great chatting sport with you
in the chamber. Thanks for stopping in today, No worries,
Thanks pining.
Speaker 1 (19:00):
Leading a vex. We've got just the ticket. It's Sports
Vex powered Blay News Talks.
Speaker 2 (19:06):
IVY and that'll blow the final. We're still on sport
Fix for today. Thank you so much for downloading and
for listening in, and in particular for those of you
who subscribe to Sportsfix. If you're not a subscriber and
you've stumbled across Sports Fixed for the first time or
the first occasion, then well give us a like, give
us a subscribe. A new episode will drop into your
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(19:28):
more from News Talks EDB Sport, be sure to check
out Sports Talk weeknights between seven and eight pm and
on the weekend's Weekend Sport midday to three Saturday and
again on Sunday.
Speaker 1 (19:38):
For more from News Talks, EDB, listen live on air
or online, and keep our shows with you wherever you
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