March 18, 2026 • 25 mins
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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Speaker 1 (00:09):
You're listening to a podcast from News Talks ed B.
Follow this and our Wide Ranger podcasts now on iHeartRadio,
Straight down the Middle.
Speaker 2 (00:23):
Try.
Speaker 1 (00:28):
Get inside the game from every end goal. It's Rugby
Direct with Elliot Smith and Leam Nabier powered by News
Talks EDB.
Speaker 2 (00:37):
Welcome into Rugby Direct powered by Habit Health Physio book
today and stay in the game. You thought we were gone,
we are not. We're back. Just the one rugby director
this week Elliott Smith with me Leam Napier, New Zealand
Rugby and New Zealand Here were Rugby writer and correspondent
joins me on the pod. Nape's good to catch up again,
(00:58):
even if it's just the once this.
Speaker 3 (00:59):
Week it is of miss Elliots. But no, you need
a bit of time to recoup. So here we are,
but later in the week to reconvene and cast the
heads to see what's coming this weekend.
Speaker 2 (01:13):
Indeed, indeed, yes, I was away at a wedding of
a good friends over the weekend and didn't see a
great deal of Rugby live. To be honest, I've caught
up with it a little bit from it. But broad
strokes why is what stood out from you from the weekend.
Caine's a pretty scratchy win over the Western Force. Couldn't
really get going in that game. The Crusaders beat the
(01:36):
Highlanders and a pretty ill disciplined performance, but they came
from behind to do so. Blue is pretty good against
Mwana Pacific. Anything really stand out from last weekend's Round
five of Super Rugby for you, Limb.
Speaker 3 (01:50):
I think it's a bit of a continuation large of
what we see have seen thus far Aliots, and that
the competition does really feel wide open. I don't know
whether you could right now pinpoint a favorite. I don't
think I could. I think there's a number of teams
that have proven they can beat each other on any
given day. I think the New Zealand superiority is potentially
(02:11):
coming to the four that we've seen in other years.
It's a big weekend for the Australian teams. I think
this weekend coming to lay down a bit of a marker.
We're starting to see a bit of rotation coming and
some of that bite team so. I think the Hurricanes
were very scratchy because of some of that rotation. The
Brumbies were caught out in Fiji and the Reds are
(02:33):
rotating again this week, so I worry about them in Fiji,
and we've seen the Hurricanes lose over there, so it's
interesting that teams are choosing that game to rest some
of their front line players. But look on the whole,
the competition certainly feels open. I feel like the Crusaders
had probably underwhelmed to this point other than that performance
against the Chiefs. Yellow card Is Shoes got a bit
(02:56):
of a rookie at ten this week. What do you
know about him?
Speaker 2 (02:59):
Yeah, I know that he played I think once for
the Auckland to Atara baseball game boat baseball team before
that folded a bit of a baseball prodigy from down
I believe Nelson Way and then once that sort of
pathway closed to New Zealand and I had a sight
set on playing Major League baseball, set his sights on
playing rugby union instead and has made a good fist
(03:20):
of it. Played for Tasman last year. But they're down
to their fourth string number ten with Nokemrada again this week,
with his Rayhanna out and with injured with concussion and
James White gone for the season with concussion. You know
they're battling to find fifteen's have gone to the wider
training group. But this presents a pretty big opportunity for
the young man. You know, probably didn't think he was
(03:42):
going to get much super rugby time, if any, this year,
and now all of a sudden he's starting in round
six and with a little bit of a chance to
make a name for himself. He played at North Harbor Stadium.
I think with the tuatara, now he's going to return
and be holding a rugby ball in his hand.
Speaker 4 (03:59):
Yeah, something of a homecoming in a roundabout way.
Speaker 3 (04:02):
And yeah, I guess we saw last year what can
happen when opportunity knocks. Rayhanna wasn't an unknown character but
certainly hadn't stamped his market on that level and came
through and made a bit of a name for himself
at the back end of the year for the Crusaders.
Speaker 4 (04:18):
So another big opportunity there.
Speaker 3 (04:20):
And we're seeing I guess potentially the lack of depth
for New Zealand tens or the stockpiling of tens in
some cases with the Highlanders digging deep into their ranks
as well.
Speaker 4 (04:32):
And I think it's a big week for Ruben Love.
You know, this is a guy that's been much hyped.
Speaker 3 (04:37):
He's a bit of a prodigy, great sporting talents cricket, rugby,
but we haven't seen enough of them in recent times.
And finally he's in the number ten jersey for the Hurricanes,
so I would like to see a big performance out
of him this week.
Speaker 2 (04:50):
Yeah, how much of a chance to lay down a
bit of a marker. I know we've we've touched on
it a fair bit since Dave Rennie was appointed, and
he's talked about not having any loyalties, but he hasn't
played a lot of ten Ruben Love. He's been anointed,
as you know, maybe the next in line. But this
is a big opportunity, I think, assuming he gets a
real run at the ten usy to stake a claim
and show that you know, he is capable of playing
(05:13):
ten beyond super rugby level and higher honors rather than
just being pigeonholed into maybe a fullback at Test level.
Speaker 4 (05:21):
Yeah, he does have that versatility, doesn't he?
Speaker 3 (05:23):
But I think it does help to have a preferred
position to have time in that pososition, particularly when it
comes to ten.
Speaker 4 (05:31):
You need time in the settle, you need to be
able to.
Speaker 3 (05:34):
Hone your craft from a tactical point of view as
much as anything else, been able to control the game,
and we just haven't seen enough of Ruben Love to
know whether he can do that on a consistent basis.
So I think this is a big week for him.
It's the Hurricane's strongest squad that they put out so
far this year. They've got to see Carefi on the bench,
which speaks to their depth certainly in the loose boards.
(05:56):
So Ruben Love, you know, down the pecking order somewhat
when you look at Richie Muwonga coming back and Josh
Jacob having been on the Blacks fifteen tour actually had
time at number ten, but I don't think he's really
stamped his authority this year. And now Damien McKenzie's back.
How many opportunities will Josh Jaken get at ten for
(06:18):
the Chiefs. So it's a big season for Reuben Love,
as you mentioned, with Dave Rennie coming in, because he's
certainly no guarantee of featuring anymore.
Speaker 4 (06:27):
For the All Black sent he did last year at
this point.
Speaker 2 (06:29):
No, he's not, so I think he's got to stake
acclaim and interesting to the hinders. With Richard passitoa at
ten who has impressed me in glimpses this year, but
another barrel starting at ten altogether, they welcome Hugh Renton
back into the mix. Caleb Tunguy Tower and the glimpses
I saw of that game against the Crusaders going from
strength to strength in the outside channels. You know, I'm
(06:52):
not sure. I'm not completely sold on him just being
as a Test football at Test wing the way that
Test rugby is being played at the moment, but you
can't deny that he's got that gift of absolute speed
and we saw it again come to the Fall last week,
and he'll get another opportunity against that Hurri Canees back three.
Speaker 4 (07:10):
Yeah, I think you're right.
Speaker 3 (07:11):
We need to probably see the full package from Caleb,
particularly on defense and under the high ball, but there's
no doubt in his finishing prowess is out and outpace
on the edge. He's a lethal weapon. And I think
I'm sure we'll touch on it a bit later in
regards to the Six Nations and how that tournament involved,
but we are starting to see Attack finally overcome the
(07:33):
rush defense and have a lot more success at breaking
that down and creating space on the art side getting
the ball to the wingers, and someone like a Caleb
Tongueytowel is really well placed to utilize that space with
his blistering speed.
Speaker 2 (07:49):
Absolutely, the Chiefs welcome back Luke Jacobson, but going under
the radar a little bit is another excuse me. Injury
to Wallace, to Titi, the hamstring proving troublesome ones again.
He missed the start of Super Rugby with a hamstring injury.
He missed them more on a game before the buy
with a hamstring Injury's out now for a few more
weeks potentially with his hamstring injury. You know, he's had
(08:11):
a few injuries since he's boost onto the scene and
another frustrating one for Wallace a TD. How much of
a blow do you think that is for the Chiefs
as they go to Canberra and play against a team
you know, writing a little bit of an emotional high
with James Slipper breaking the Super Rugby record.
Speaker 3 (08:28):
Yeah, James Slipper, it feels like he's been around for
as long as you and I earlier. Yeah, look it
little bit of a blow for Wallace because I think
we saw last year he's a guy that needs consistent
game time. I think that's the case with most rugby players.
But it wasn't a vintage year. We probably only saw
(08:48):
the best of them in the final game of the
year in Cardiff. And look, it's a long season, but
the loose forwards are stacked and we are seeing some
real early season form from some of those guys on
the fringe, like a Devin Flanders is playing great rugby
for the Hurricanes. He's having real success on the game line,
(09:09):
heavily involved on both sides of the ball.
Speaker 4 (09:12):
So you hope Wallace.
Speaker 3 (09:13):
Can have a bit of an injury free run because look,
I think he's a.
Speaker 4 (09:18):
Prodigious talent, isn't he.
Speaker 3 (09:19):
There's no denying that he was breakout player of the year,
All Blacks Player of the Year a year and a
half two years ago now. But needs to stay on
the park and the Chiefs will be desperate to get
him back. It's always a tough trip to Canberra, but
McKenzie back at ten, Luke Jacobson returning, as you say,
I'm backing them to go over there and sneak that.
Speaker 2 (09:40):
Yeah, I think they will. We'll get into some tipping
a little bit later on in the podcast. Blues with
an interesting one Peyton spencer name that's been around the
Traps for a few years now. Played a bit of
sevens obviously, sign of Carlos finally gets an opportunity off
the bench against the Wartar is fascinated to see how
he goes. The Wartars have slipped off the pace a
little bit in the last few weeks, but I still
(10:03):
have a feeling that they might be able to give
the Blues a little bit of a tickle up in
this game. Potentially, you think back to some of the
meetings that they've had in the past. The Blues won
comfortably last year, but I think it was the year
before that they could only scrape past the war Tars
in a close one. So I'm interested in You know,
(10:23):
this is a big game for both teams.
Speaker 4 (10:26):
It is indeed.
Speaker 3 (10:27):
Look, I think the Warritars had their bubble burst a
couple of weeks ago by the Hurricanes. But these two
teams have some similarities. Both have big forward packs, both
like to dominate the physical exchanges and be direct. I
think the Blues have been more adventurous this year, have
used the ball a lot more. I think we've seen
that in the ball and the form that was seen
(10:48):
from Caleb Clark and Cody Vai. He's been a real
big movers, taking a real claim for that right wing spots.
The Blues I think have named a very strong team
Zarne Sullivan back, Peter r Key back. I think they've
recalled Finley Christie after an injury there. So look, I
think the Blues are starting to find some form. I'm
(11:11):
not totally convinced by where they are at, but that's
I'm starting to build a bit of momentum, so I'll
back them to go over to Sydney. But I think
it is a really big weekend for the Australian teams.
If the Chiefs go over and win in Camera, if
the Blues go over and win in Sydney, and if
the Reds, who have rested I think Carter Gordon and
(11:33):
maybe even Fraser mcwright's struggle in Fiji, it's starting to
look like a bit of an early season hole for
some of those Australian teams.
Speaker 2 (11:41):
It is indeed same old story. Potentially I will get
in some tipping at the ends of the podcast. Let's
wrap up the Six Nations, Liam and what a compelling
finish to the Six Nations. It was Sunday morning, nine
am New Zealand time a penalty goal after the siren
to win the game, but win the championship. This was
(12:01):
a quite incredible game of rugby union. I was delighted
that I woke up, rubbed the sleep out of my
eye the night after a wedding and you know, recuperated
from being on the dance laugh a little bit too much,
and was entertained by potentially one of the greatest test
matches of all time. What did you make of it?
Speaker 3 (12:21):
Well, if you look at the Six Nations as a whole, Elliott,
there were so many narratives that changed.
Speaker 4 (12:27):
Dramatically week to week.
Speaker 3 (12:28):
You know, if you think about us talking about not
just us but ever on Gregor Town's been on thin
nice islands, hitting the wall. England's were going to go
and potentially win the tournaments. France lost to Edinburgh, everyone
bet everyone Italy giant killing and then losing to Wales
and then that dramatic finish on the final day. It
(12:50):
is brilliant the way they set it up, with all
the teams playing one after the other. You couldn't ask
for anything more from that tournament. It's been talked about
as the greatest Six Nations in history, and I think
the brand of rugby that was played its brilliant. It's
a great advertisement for the sport and hopefully we see
more of that from the Northern Hemissea Hemisphere and hopefully
(13:10):
they get on board with that captivating style of rugby.
You know, you can talk about defenses optional and what
have you, but from an entertainment perspective, it was magic,
wasn't it. And that final Test France and England's just
so many.
Speaker 4 (13:25):
Ebbs and flows.
Speaker 3 (13:26):
Henry Pollock hero to villain, was a Oli chessham with
the intercept and he's gone and put it in the
corner in England lose because of the sideline conversion and
just so many narratives weren't there.
Speaker 2 (13:38):
Yeah, what was sixteen lead changes in the end thirty
eight to twenty seven. France led not long after halftime
and you thought, kay, well they'll kick on here and
maybe even you know, reach fifty. But for England to
come back and then throw it away, it had everything
that game. Yeah, it's a wonderful advertisement for test rugby,
but also the Six Nations and France probably worthy winners
(14:02):
in the end, so obviously they had lost to Scotland
the week prior, but over the course of the competition,
opening against Ireland and a very good performance with the
win there and then wrapping it up with the balls
they had to through Ramos to kick that penalty right
at the end. It had everything and I thought, you're
just a compelling advertisement for rugby and you hope that
(14:24):
more Test matches are like that. What do you think
it means though, for the way that Test matches might
be played for the rest of the year. Is that
just a one off or maybe you know, some of
these rule changes that we've seen over the last twenty
four months, etc. Are beginning to take effects now, you know,
across the globe.
Speaker 3 (14:44):
I think we are starting to see that. And look,
you look at England and when they're capable of that
style of rugby. I know they lost, but a where's
that been for most of that tournament in terms of
the attacking endeavor, because they've been so bland and boring
and conservative. So it was great to see them chance
their arm and have a real crack. But I do
(15:05):
think we are starting to see the quest eat up
the game and promotes attacking rugby come into it and hopefully.
I think some of the rule changes and super Rugby
have laid the platform for that. I think there's still
more that we can do to go down that path.
And that's not so I hate this chat about depowering
(15:27):
scrums or getting rid of the scrums or going away
from what works for South Africa or France. Rugby needs
to realize it's an entertainment product and that doesn't mean
they can't be contrasting styles. But I think from my
perspective anyway, everyone needs to get on board and welcome
these rules that promotes ball and play up tempo attacking
(15:50):
rugby because ultimately that's what's going to bring more eyeballs
to the sport.
Speaker 2 (15:54):
I think so too, and hopefully this is, as you said,
the way things to come. And I thought the way
that England attacks was clearly something that France hadn't expected.
Sean Edwards interviewed after the game. Obviously he's one number
of six nations now, but it felt like the chaos
that England are throwing around was something that France hadn't
prepared for and didn't look within their abilities to adapt
(16:17):
to the way that they were playing. I thought really
smart rugby from England, but can they do it every week?
It's going to be the fascinating thing. And with the
Nation's championship not too far away, you know, Steve Borthwick
will keep his job from you know what we're hearing
from our friends up north, you know, at least through July.
But if that July campaign goes pear shape, then it
(16:38):
could be all on again. So as we touched on
at the start, there's so many little we narratives that
have you know, come out of the you know, the
blocks over the tours over the course of the six Nations,
but then if had to go out of the back
into the box over the course of the six Nations
as well. But it doesn't mean that they're completely you know,
off the table. You feel like there could be more
to come in those regards as well. Speaking of more
(17:00):
to come, we're on Earth of the All Blacks assistant
coaches at Liam.
Speaker 4 (17:06):
Good question, Eliot.
Speaker 3 (17:07):
It was it was all signposted to happen this week,
but contracts take a while to get drawn up and
people take a while to agree to terms and to
shake everything down. I'm hearing that Phil Healley and Neil
Barnes close to signing or have signs. But and I
think we'll see Tanumager in that mix as well, which
(17:27):
has been pretty well signposted. But I think it's I'm
here and it's pretty touch and go with Mike Bleir.
So it's going to be very interesting to see whether
all blacks land from an attacking portfolio perspective.
Speaker 2 (17:40):
So he may not get across the line and they
may retain Scott Hansen, is what you're hearing.
Speaker 4 (17:46):
Potentially. I'm not definitive.
Speaker 3 (17:49):
Either way, but I think at this point that sounds
like that'll be the last one to be finalized, and
there's certainly no guarantees that Mike Blear will be involved.
Speaker 2 (18:01):
We touched on this a little bit last week. It's
not a pay issue, is it that New Zealand Rugby
are worried about. It's the fact was that Scott Hansen
was well reviewed at last year's inter view Sewer from
what we understand, from what you understand, and there's a
sense that maybe keeping him there is better than you know,
(18:22):
throwing the entire baby out with the bath order.
Speaker 3 (18:27):
Yeah, it depends on you talk to Elliott's. Some people
say he reviewed well, and then I've heard stories of
other players and certain people involved in that group who
weren't a fan of certain aspects of Scott Hansen's coaching.
He is on a four year contract on a rugby
adamant that that is a non factor, that money is
(18:48):
not part of the equation, but I think that's certainly
he's on rugby pushing hard for Rennie to strongly consider
retaining Scott Hansen, where I think Rennie's preference was certainly
to bring in Mike Blair. So look, it's gonna be
interesting to see how that coaching team shakes down in
the coming week. So it was meant to be potentially
(19:11):
back end of this week. But here we are Thursday
and nothing's been finalized as yet, so it can't be
too far away.
Speaker 2 (19:20):
No, you'd think not. We did sort of speculate that
we might have some assistants to talk about this week,
but not to be right, Let's do some tipping for
this weekend, Liam, you lead by one after getting four
or five last week. I got four or five last
week as well. We were by and large the same.
We both picked the Brumbies too winning Fiji, which did
not happen. Highlanders Hurricanes indonedan Friday night seven o five
(19:45):
live on Gold Sport and iHeartRadio. Is this the week
that the Cane train gets derailed by the southern Southern
side of the Highlanders.
Speaker 3 (19:55):
We almost came off the tracks in Napier before Thecaine's
bomb squad was unleashed and then they managed to concede
too late trials and blow the bonus points. So it
was a very scratchy performance last week from the Canes.
But the squad this week looks really bolted on. Billy
propped a back, Peter Luckye back really strong, so it
(20:17):
will be a shock to you they're going to tip
the Canes to win that. It's also my weeknd the
betting Synderkit, so I do have quite a large slice
of my week riding on that. So if you see
my demeanor next week, it may be determined by how
the cand goes.
Speaker 2 (20:35):
I suspect you're right. I'm going to side with you
and go the Hurricanes for that game. I think they've
got a better team this week. There's a couple of
injuries as we've touched on to the Highlanders, so they
get my tip to the Hurricanes. Brumbie's Chiefs in camber
A couple of losses in a row. Now for what
the Brumbies, the Chiefs are coming off the buy Jacobson's
back in the mix for them. Do they spoil James
(20:57):
Slippers party Slippers for Slips. I believe it's been called.
They've been told to get out the company nighttime where
and take them along to Jo. But do they get
the win? Liam?
Speaker 3 (21:07):
I think this is probab the toughest game of the
round to tip Elliott's, But I am I'm going to
go with the Chiefs. They might not be able to
play the brand of rugby that they enjoyed going to
cambrid As you say, it's not exactly tropical at any
time of the year, so they could be dragged into
a bit of a kicking.
Speaker 4 (21:25):
Marling duel.
Speaker 3 (21:26):
But I'm going to tip the Chiefs to go over
there and get the job done.
Speaker 2 (21:28):
I'm going to go the Brumbies on the historic occasion
for James Slippers to win the Drewa hosting the Reds
four thirty five on Saturday at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
They're being written off a bit this season the driw
but again, playing over there is proving harder and harder
for these teams.
Speaker 3 (21:48):
Yeah, those thunderstorms seem to be coming on call every
weekend for them, don't they. So oh, look they're playing
well at home. Bloody tough to be over there. I'm
going to tip the Duror. I think the Reds resting
a couple of their frontline players, which has come back
to bites the Canes and the Brumbies.
Speaker 4 (22:04):
So stick with the Dura there.
Speaker 2 (22:07):
I'm going to go the Red for an upset Intoka
Mwana pacifica first game at Albany for the end of season,
facing the Crusaders seven o five Saturday night.
Speaker 3 (22:18):
Well, I've always said Elliott miner are my third favorite team.
Speaker 2 (22:23):
Who's your second favorite team?
Speaker 3 (22:26):
Probably the Chiefs. Actually yeah, yeah, you'll be shocked it's
not the Crusaders.
Speaker 2 (22:31):
That's what I thought. Yeah, yeah, naturally, you know, you've
always got a lot of love for them.
Speaker 3 (22:37):
No, Look, I walked up the Crusaders to one that's
that game.
Speaker 4 (22:43):
What about a word on your rockie Johnny Lee.
Speaker 2 (22:45):
How impressive was he? Look, he's he's a player that's
been around for a couple of seasons in terms not
of the top level, but just his name has been
mentioned of you know, He's quite impressive. Keeping on this kid.
New Zealand under twenties was good for Tasman last year,
and I thought added a bit to that Crusader's pack,
even aside from his try is just an out and
out seven rather than Ethan Blackett are playing seven. Felt
(23:08):
like the balance was a lot better in that loose
forward trio last week. I thought, as far as deboos go,
couldn't have asked much more from the young men.
Speaker 4 (23:17):
Yeah, how of a debut, wasn't it?
Speaker 3 (23:18):
And strucking resemblance to Ethan Blackouter yep.
Speaker 2 (23:23):
Yeah, I've given that both both Tasman boys both look
good and black red and black. But maybe they'll get
higher on us who knows, and wartars blues around us
out nine thirty five on Saturday.
Speaker 3 (23:33):
Yeah, pump the brakes. One game doesn't make an all
Blake Boone Cotter's men to go over there and continue
the War Tars woes.
Speaker 2 (23:44):
Yeah, I think I'm going to the same. I think
the Warriors the wheels have come off the war Tars
if they were ever on. I was kind of impressed
by them and the opening couple of weeks, but they
have not been flash in the last couple will update
those next week. We'll also bring you up to that
with our MVP voting as well as to how that unfolded.
You can follow us on the Tipping comp as well, sorry,
the Fantasy comp as well. Rugby Direct podcast is what
(24:07):
you search. I can completely forgot to change my team.
I don't know about you last week, Liam, but completely
forgot to make any changes. And I think half my
team was sitting out. So you can only go up
this week, is what I'm thinking.
Speaker 3 (24:19):
Yeah, see I've gone from what one hundred to one
hundred and fifty.
Speaker 2 (24:23):
Something like that. Yeah, it's just plunged on. I'm terrible
as it is, and I think I've got worse last week.
Speaker 3 (24:27):
So yeah, yeah, I haven't forgot to do my team,
but there are I think I'm probably twenty points twenty
spots off the lead, so there's a few punters out
there gunning for that super rug Good Josey.
Speaker 2 (24:37):
That's right. We'll get in touch with us as well
on the mail bag as well. We'll bring that back
next week Rugby Direct at Newstalk ZB dot co dot
nz or any questions you can flick us to them
on our social media on Twitter as well. Liam always
a pleasure to catch up. We're back to normal next
week Monday Thursday, barring any sort of breaking news. Look
forward to catching up next week.
Speaker 3 (24:58):
Yeah, I might try to flap my one working wing
and come and join Gangs Studio on Monday.
Speaker 2 (25:04):
Eliot lovely to see your face, William. A good weekend.
Enjoy your super Rugby. We'll catch you next week on
Rugby Director. Thanks to Mark Kelly for producing. And have
it health Fuzzy your book today and stay in again
Speaker 1 (25:18):
For more from news Talks at b Listen live on
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You're listening to a podcast from News Talks ed B.
Follow this and our Wide Ranger podcasts now on iHeartRadio,
Straight down the Middle.
Speaker 2 (00:23):
Try.
Speaker 1 (00:28):
Get inside the game from every end goal. It's Rugby
Direct with Elliot Smith and Leam Nabier powered by News
Talks EDB.
Speaker 2 (00:37):
Welcome into Rugby Direct powered by Habit Health Physio book
today and stay in the game. You thought we were gone,
we are not. We're back. Just the one rugby director
this week Elliott Smith with me Leam Napier, New Zealand
Rugby and New Zealand Here were Rugby writer and correspondent
joins me on the pod. Nape's good to catch up again,
(00:58):
even if it's just the once this.
Speaker 3 (00:59):
Week it is of miss Elliots. But no, you need
a bit of time to recoup. So here we are,
but later in the week to reconvene and cast the
heads to see what's coming this weekend.
Speaker 2 (01:13):
Indeed, indeed, yes, I was away at a wedding of
a good friends over the weekend and didn't see a
great deal of Rugby live. To be honest, I've caught
up with it a little bit from it. But broad
strokes why is what stood out from you from the weekend.
Caine's a pretty scratchy win over the Western Force. Couldn't
really get going in that game. The Crusaders beat the
(01:36):
Highlanders and a pretty ill disciplined performance, but they came
from behind to do so. Blue is pretty good against
Mwana Pacific. Anything really stand out from last weekend's Round
five of Super Rugby for you, Limb.
Speaker 3 (01:50):
I think it's a bit of a continuation large of
what we see have seen thus far Aliots, and that
the competition does really feel wide open. I don't know
whether you could right now pinpoint a favorite. I don't
think I could. I think there's a number of teams
that have proven they can beat each other on any
given day. I think the New Zealand superiority is potentially
(02:11):
coming to the four that we've seen in other years.
It's a big weekend for the Australian teams. I think
this weekend coming to lay down a bit of a marker.
We're starting to see a bit of rotation coming and
some of that bite team so. I think the Hurricanes
were very scratchy because of some of that rotation. The
Brumbies were caught out in Fiji and the Reds are
(02:33):
rotating again this week, so I worry about them in Fiji,
and we've seen the Hurricanes lose over there, so it's
interesting that teams are choosing that game to rest some
of their front line players. But look on the whole,
the competition certainly feels open. I feel like the Crusaders
had probably underwhelmed to this point other than that performance
against the Chiefs. Yellow card Is Shoes got a bit
(02:56):
of a rookie at ten this week. What do you
know about him?
Speaker 2 (02:59):
Yeah, I know that he played I think once for
the Auckland to Atara baseball game boat baseball team before
that folded a bit of a baseball prodigy from down
I believe Nelson Way and then once that sort of
pathway closed to New Zealand and I had a sight
set on playing Major League baseball, set his sights on
playing rugby union instead and has made a good fist
(03:20):
of it. Played for Tasman last year. But they're down
to their fourth string number ten with Nokemrada again this week,
with his Rayhanna out and with injured with concussion and
James White gone for the season with concussion. You know
they're battling to find fifteen's have gone to the wider
training group. But this presents a pretty big opportunity for
the young man. You know, probably didn't think he was
(03:42):
going to get much super rugby time, if any, this year,
and now all of a sudden he's starting in round
six and with a little bit of a chance to
make a name for himself. He played at North Harbor Stadium.
I think with the tuatara, now he's going to return
and be holding a rugby ball in his hand.
Speaker 4 (03:59):
Yeah, something of a homecoming in a roundabout way.
Speaker 3 (04:02):
And yeah, I guess we saw last year what can
happen when opportunity knocks. Rayhanna wasn't an unknown character but
certainly hadn't stamped his market on that level and came
through and made a bit of a name for himself
at the back end of the year for the Crusaders.
Speaker 4 (04:18):
So another big opportunity there.
Speaker 3 (04:20):
And we're seeing I guess potentially the lack of depth
for New Zealand tens or the stockpiling of tens in
some cases with the Highlanders digging deep into their ranks
as well.
Speaker 4 (04:32):
And I think it's a big week for Ruben Love.
You know, this is a guy that's been much hyped.
Speaker 3 (04:37):
He's a bit of a prodigy, great sporting talents cricket, rugby,
but we haven't seen enough of them in recent times.
And finally he's in the number ten jersey for the Hurricanes,
so I would like to see a big performance out
of him this week.
Speaker 2 (04:50):
Yeah, how much of a chance to lay down a
bit of a marker. I know we've we've touched on
it a fair bit since Dave Rennie was appointed, and
he's talked about not having any loyalties, but he hasn't
played a lot of ten Ruben Love. He's been anointed,
as you know, maybe the next in line. But this
is a big opportunity, I think, assuming he gets a
real run at the ten usy to stake a claim
and show that you know, he is capable of playing
(05:13):
ten beyond super rugby level and higher honors rather than
just being pigeonholed into maybe a fullback at Test level.
Speaker 4 (05:21):
Yeah, he does have that versatility, doesn't he?
Speaker 3 (05:23):
But I think it does help to have a preferred
position to have time in that pososition, particularly when it
comes to ten.
Speaker 4 (05:31):
You need time in the settle, you need to be
able to.
Speaker 3 (05:34):
Hone your craft from a tactical point of view as
much as anything else, been able to control the game,
and we just haven't seen enough of Ruben Love to
know whether he can do that on a consistent basis.
So I think this is a big week for him.
It's the Hurricane's strongest squad that they put out so
far this year. They've got to see Carefi on the bench,
which speaks to their depth certainly in the loose boards.
(05:56):
So Ruben Love, you know, down the pecking order somewhat
when you look at Richie Muwonga coming back and Josh
Jacob having been on the Blacks fifteen tour actually had
time at number ten, but I don't think he's really
stamped his authority this year. And now Damien McKenzie's back.
How many opportunities will Josh Jaken get at ten for
(06:18):
the Chiefs. So it's a big season for Reuben Love,
as you mentioned, with Dave Rennie coming in, because he's
certainly no guarantee of featuring anymore.
Speaker 4 (06:27):
For the All Black sent he did last year at
this point.
Speaker 2 (06:29):
No, he's not, so I think he's got to stake
acclaim and interesting to the hinders. With Richard passitoa at
ten who has impressed me in glimpses this year, but
another barrel starting at ten altogether, they welcome Hugh Renton
back into the mix. Caleb Tunguy Tower and the glimpses
I saw of that game against the Crusaders going from
strength to strength in the outside channels. You know, I'm
(06:52):
not sure. I'm not completely sold on him just being
as a Test football at Test wing the way that
Test rugby is being played at the moment, but you
can't deny that he's got that gift of absolute speed
and we saw it again come to the Fall last week,
and he'll get another opportunity against that Hurri Canees back three.
Speaker 4 (07:10):
Yeah, I think you're right.
Speaker 3 (07:11):
We need to probably see the full package from Caleb,
particularly on defense and under the high ball, but there's
no doubt in his finishing prowess is out and outpace
on the edge. He's a lethal weapon. And I think
I'm sure we'll touch on it a bit later in
regards to the Six Nations and how that tournament involved,
but we are starting to see Attack finally overcome the
(07:33):
rush defense and have a lot more success at breaking
that down and creating space on the art side getting
the ball to the wingers, and someone like a Caleb
Tongueytowel is really well placed to utilize that space with
his blistering speed.
Speaker 2 (07:49):
Absolutely, the Chiefs welcome back Luke Jacobson, but going under
the radar a little bit is another excuse me. Injury
to Wallace, to Titi, the hamstring proving troublesome ones again.
He missed the start of Super Rugby with a hamstring injury.
He missed them more on a game before the buy
with a hamstring Injury's out now for a few more
weeks potentially with his hamstring injury. You know, he's had
(08:11):
a few injuries since he's boost onto the scene and
another frustrating one for Wallace a TD. How much of
a blow do you think that is for the Chiefs
as they go to Canberra and play against a team
you know, writing a little bit of an emotional high
with James Slipper breaking the Super Rugby record.
Speaker 3 (08:28):
Yeah, James Slipper, it feels like he's been around for
as long as you and I earlier. Yeah, look it
little bit of a blow for Wallace because I think
we saw last year he's a guy that needs consistent
game time. I think that's the case with most rugby players.
But it wasn't a vintage year. We probably only saw
(08:48):
the best of them in the final game of the
year in Cardiff. And look, it's a long season, but
the loose forwards are stacked and we are seeing some
real early season form from some of those guys on
the fringe, like a Devin Flanders is playing great rugby
for the Hurricanes. He's having real success on the game line,
(09:09):
heavily involved on both sides of the ball.
Speaker 4 (09:12):
So you hope Wallace.
Speaker 3 (09:13):
Can have a bit of an injury free run because look,
I think he's a.
Speaker 4 (09:18):
Prodigious talent, isn't he.
Speaker 3 (09:19):
There's no denying that he was breakout player of the year,
All Blacks Player of the Year a year and a
half two years ago now. But needs to stay on
the park and the Chiefs will be desperate to get
him back. It's always a tough trip to Canberra, but
McKenzie back at ten, Luke Jacobson returning, as you say,
I'm backing them to go over there and sneak that.
Speaker 2 (09:40):
Yeah, I think they will. We'll get into some tipping
a little bit later on in the podcast. Blues with
an interesting one Peyton spencer name that's been around the
Traps for a few years now. Played a bit of
sevens obviously, sign of Carlos finally gets an opportunity off
the bench against the Wartar is fascinated to see how
he goes. The Wartars have slipped off the pace a
little bit in the last few weeks, but I still
(10:03):
have a feeling that they might be able to give
the Blues a little bit of a tickle up in
this game. Potentially, you think back to some of the
meetings that they've had in the past. The Blues won
comfortably last year, but I think it was the year
before that they could only scrape past the war Tars
in a close one. So I'm interested in You know,
(10:23):
this is a big game for both teams.
Speaker 4 (10:26):
It is indeed.
Speaker 3 (10:27):
Look, I think the Warritars had their bubble burst a
couple of weeks ago by the Hurricanes. But these two
teams have some similarities. Both have big forward packs, both
like to dominate the physical exchanges and be direct. I
think the Blues have been more adventurous this year, have
used the ball a lot more. I think we've seen
that in the ball and the form that was seen
(10:48):
from Caleb Clark and Cody Vai. He's been a real
big movers, taking a real claim for that right wing spots.
The Blues I think have named a very strong team
Zarne Sullivan back, Peter r Key back. I think they've
recalled Finley Christie after an injury there. So look, I
think the Blues are starting to find some form. I'm
(11:11):
not totally convinced by where they are at, but that's
I'm starting to build a bit of momentum, so I'll
back them to go over to Sydney. But I think
it is a really big weekend for the Australian teams.
If the Chiefs go over and win in Camera, if
the Blues go over and win in Sydney, and if
the Reds, who have rested I think Carter Gordon and
(11:33):
maybe even Fraser mcwright's struggle in Fiji, it's starting to
look like a bit of an early season hole for
some of those Australian teams.
Speaker 2 (11:41):
It is indeed same old story. Potentially I will get
in some tipping at the ends of the podcast. Let's
wrap up the Six Nations, Liam and what a compelling
finish to the Six Nations. It was Sunday morning, nine
am New Zealand time a penalty goal after the siren
to win the game, but win the championship. This was
(12:01):
a quite incredible game of rugby union. I was delighted
that I woke up, rubbed the sleep out of my
eye the night after a wedding and you know, recuperated
from being on the dance laugh a little bit too much,
and was entertained by potentially one of the greatest test
matches of all time. What did you make of it?
Speaker 3 (12:21):
Well, if you look at the Six Nations as a whole, Elliott,
there were so many narratives that changed.
Speaker 4 (12:27):
Dramatically week to week.
Speaker 3 (12:28):
You know, if you think about us talking about not
just us but ever on Gregor Town's been on thin
nice islands, hitting the wall. England's were going to go
and potentially win the tournaments. France lost to Edinburgh, everyone
bet everyone Italy giant killing and then losing to Wales
and then that dramatic finish on the final day. It
(12:50):
is brilliant the way they set it up, with all
the teams playing one after the other. You couldn't ask
for anything more from that tournament. It's been talked about
as the greatest Six Nations in history, and I think
the brand of rugby that was played its brilliant. It's
a great advertisement for the sport and hopefully we see
more of that from the Northern Hemissea Hemisphere and hopefully
(13:10):
they get on board with that captivating style of rugby.
You know, you can talk about defenses optional and what
have you, but from an entertainment perspective, it was magic,
wasn't it. And that final Test France and England's just
so many.
Speaker 4 (13:25):
Ebbs and flows.
Speaker 3 (13:26):
Henry Pollock hero to villain, was a Oli chessham with
the intercept and he's gone and put it in the
corner in England lose because of the sideline conversion and
just so many narratives weren't there.
Speaker 2 (13:38):
Yeah, what was sixteen lead changes in the end thirty
eight to twenty seven. France led not long after halftime
and you thought, kay, well they'll kick on here and
maybe even you know, reach fifty. But for England to
come back and then throw it away, it had everything
that game. Yeah, it's a wonderful advertisement for test rugby,
but also the Six Nations and France probably worthy winners
(14:02):
in the end, so obviously they had lost to Scotland
the week prior, but over the course of the competition,
opening against Ireland and a very good performance with the
win there and then wrapping it up with the balls
they had to through Ramos to kick that penalty right
at the end. It had everything and I thought, you're
just a compelling advertisement for rugby and you hope that
(14:24):
more Test matches are like that. What do you think
it means though, for the way that Test matches might
be played for the rest of the year. Is that
just a one off or maybe you know, some of
these rule changes that we've seen over the last twenty
four months, etc. Are beginning to take effects now, you know,
across the globe.
Speaker 3 (14:44):
I think we are starting to see that. And look,
you look at England and when they're capable of that
style of rugby. I know they lost, but a where's
that been for most of that tournament in terms of
the attacking endeavor, because they've been so bland and boring
and conservative. So it was great to see them chance
their arm and have a real crack. But I do
(15:05):
think we are starting to see the quest eat up
the game and promotes attacking rugby come into it and hopefully.
I think some of the rule changes and super Rugby
have laid the platform for that. I think there's still
more that we can do to go down that path.
And that's not so I hate this chat about depowering
(15:27):
scrums or getting rid of the scrums or going away
from what works for South Africa or France. Rugby needs
to realize it's an entertainment product and that doesn't mean
they can't be contrasting styles. But I think from my
perspective anyway, everyone needs to get on board and welcome
these rules that promotes ball and play up tempo attacking
(15:50):
rugby because ultimately that's what's going to bring more eyeballs
to the sport.
Speaker 2 (15:54):
I think so too, and hopefully this is, as you said,
the way things to come. And I thought the way
that England attacks was clearly something that France hadn't expected.
Sean Edwards interviewed after the game. Obviously he's one number
of six nations now, but it felt like the chaos
that England are throwing around was something that France hadn't
prepared for and didn't look within their abilities to adapt
(16:17):
to the way that they were playing. I thought really
smart rugby from England, but can they do it every week?
It's going to be the fascinating thing. And with the
Nation's championship not too far away, you know, Steve Borthwick
will keep his job from you know what we're hearing
from our friends up north, you know, at least through July.
But if that July campaign goes pear shape, then it
(16:38):
could be all on again. So as we touched on
at the start, there's so many little we narratives that
have you know, come out of the you know, the
blocks over the tours over the course of the six Nations,
but then if had to go out of the back
into the box over the course of the six Nations
as well. But it doesn't mean that they're completely you know,
off the table. You feel like there could be more
to come in those regards as well. Speaking of more
(17:00):
to come, we're on Earth of the All Blacks assistant
coaches at Liam.
Speaker 4 (17:06):
Good question, Eliot.
Speaker 3 (17:07):
It was it was all signposted to happen this week,
but contracts take a while to get drawn up and
people take a while to agree to terms and to
shake everything down. I'm hearing that Phil Healley and Neil
Barnes close to signing or have signs. But and I
think we'll see Tanumager in that mix as well, which
(17:27):
has been pretty well signposted. But I think it's I'm
here and it's pretty touch and go with Mike Bleir.
So it's going to be very interesting to see whether
all blacks land from an attacking portfolio perspective.
Speaker 2 (17:40):
So he may not get across the line and they
may retain Scott Hansen, is what you're hearing.
Speaker 4 (17:46):
Potentially. I'm not definitive.
Speaker 3 (17:49):
Either way, but I think at this point that sounds
like that'll be the last one to be finalized, and
there's certainly no guarantees that Mike Blear will be involved.
Speaker 2 (18:01):
We touched on this a little bit last week. It's
not a pay issue, is it that New Zealand Rugby
are worried about. It's the fact was that Scott Hansen
was well reviewed at last year's inter view Sewer from
what we understand, from what you understand, and there's a
sense that maybe keeping him there is better than you know,
(18:22):
throwing the entire baby out with the bath order.
Speaker 3 (18:27):
Yeah, it depends on you talk to Elliott's. Some people
say he reviewed well, and then I've heard stories of
other players and certain people involved in that group who
weren't a fan of certain aspects of Scott Hansen's coaching.
He is on a four year contract on a rugby
adamant that that is a non factor, that money is
(18:48):
not part of the equation, but I think that's certainly
he's on rugby pushing hard for Rennie to strongly consider
retaining Scott Hansen, where I think Rennie's preference was certainly
to bring in Mike Blair. So look, it's gonna be
interesting to see how that coaching team shakes down in
the coming week. So it was meant to be potentially
(19:11):
back end of this week. But here we are Thursday
and nothing's been finalized as yet, so it can't be
too far away.
Speaker 2 (19:20):
No, you'd think not. We did sort of speculate that
we might have some assistants to talk about this week,
but not to be right, Let's do some tipping for
this weekend, Liam, you lead by one after getting four
or five last week. I got four or five last
week as well. We were by and large the same.
We both picked the Brumbies too winning Fiji, which did
not happen. Highlanders Hurricanes indonedan Friday night seven o five
(19:45):
live on Gold Sport and iHeartRadio. Is this the week
that the Cane train gets derailed by the southern Southern
side of the Highlanders.
Speaker 3 (19:55):
We almost came off the tracks in Napier before Thecaine's
bomb squad was unleashed and then they managed to concede
too late trials and blow the bonus points. So it
was a very scratchy performance last week from the Canes.
But the squad this week looks really bolted on. Billy
propped a back, Peter Luckye back really strong, so it
(20:17):
will be a shock to you they're going to tip
the Canes to win that. It's also my weeknd the
betting Synderkit, so I do have quite a large slice
of my week riding on that. So if you see
my demeanor next week, it may be determined by how
the cand goes.
Speaker 2 (20:35):
I suspect you're right. I'm going to side with you
and go the Hurricanes for that game. I think they've
got a better team this week. There's a couple of
injuries as we've touched on to the Highlanders, so they
get my tip to the Hurricanes. Brumbie's Chiefs in camber
A couple of losses in a row. Now for what
the Brumbies, the Chiefs are coming off the buy Jacobson's
back in the mix for them. Do they spoil James
(20:57):
Slippers party Slippers for Slips. I believe it's been called.
They've been told to get out the company nighttime where
and take them along to Jo. But do they get
the win? Liam?
Speaker 3 (21:07):
I think this is probab the toughest game of the
round to tip Elliott's, But I am I'm going to
go with the Chiefs. They might not be able to
play the brand of rugby that they enjoyed going to
cambrid As you say, it's not exactly tropical at any
time of the year, so they could be dragged into
a bit of a kicking.
Speaker 4 (21:25):
Marling duel.
Speaker 3 (21:26):
But I'm going to tip the Chiefs to go over
there and get the job done.
Speaker 2 (21:28):
I'm going to go the Brumbies on the historic occasion
for James Slippers to win the Drewa hosting the Reds
four thirty five on Saturday at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
They're being written off a bit this season the driw
but again, playing over there is proving harder and harder
for these teams.
Speaker 3 (21:48):
Yeah, those thunderstorms seem to be coming on call every
weekend for them, don't they. So oh, look they're playing
well at home. Bloody tough to be over there. I'm
going to tip the Duror. I think the Reds resting
a couple of their frontline players, which has come back
to bites the Canes and the Brumbies.
Speaker 4 (22:04):
So stick with the Dura there.
Speaker 2 (22:07):
I'm going to go the Red for an upset Intoka
Mwana pacifica first game at Albany for the end of season,
facing the Crusaders seven o five Saturday night.
Speaker 3 (22:18):
Well, I've always said Elliott miner are my third favorite team.
Speaker 2 (22:23):
Who's your second favorite team?
Speaker 3 (22:26):
Probably the Chiefs. Actually yeah, yeah, you'll be shocked it's
not the Crusaders.
Speaker 2 (22:31):
That's what I thought. Yeah, yeah, naturally, you know, you've
always got a lot of love for them.
Speaker 3 (22:37):
No, Look, I walked up the Crusaders to one that's
that game.
Speaker 4 (22:43):
What about a word on your rockie Johnny Lee.
Speaker 2 (22:45):
How impressive was he? Look, he's he's a player that's
been around for a couple of seasons in terms not
of the top level, but just his name has been
mentioned of you know, He's quite impressive. Keeping on this kid.
New Zealand under twenties was good for Tasman last year,
and I thought added a bit to that Crusader's pack,
even aside from his try is just an out and
out seven rather than Ethan Blackett are playing seven. Felt
(23:08):
like the balance was a lot better in that loose
forward trio last week. I thought, as far as deboos go,
couldn't have asked much more from the young men.
Speaker 4 (23:17):
Yeah, how of a debut, wasn't it?
Speaker 3 (23:18):
And strucking resemblance to Ethan Blackouter yep.
Speaker 2 (23:23):
Yeah, I've given that both both Tasman boys both look
good and black red and black. But maybe they'll get
higher on us who knows, and wartars blues around us
out nine thirty five on Saturday.
Speaker 3 (23:33):
Yeah, pump the brakes. One game doesn't make an all
Blake Boone Cotter's men to go over there and continue
the War Tars woes.
Speaker 2 (23:44):
Yeah, I think I'm going to the same. I think
the Warriors the wheels have come off the war Tars
if they were ever on. I was kind of impressed
by them and the opening couple of weeks, but they
have not been flash in the last couple will update
those next week. We'll also bring you up to that
with our MVP voting as well as to how that unfolded.
You can follow us on the Tipping comp as well, sorry,
the Fantasy comp as well. Rugby Direct podcast is what
(24:07):
you search. I can completely forgot to change my team.
I don't know about you last week, Liam, but completely
forgot to make any changes. And I think half my
team was sitting out. So you can only go up
this week, is what I'm thinking.
Speaker 3 (24:19):
Yeah, see I've gone from what one hundred to one
hundred and fifty.
Speaker 2 (24:23):
Something like that. Yeah, it's just plunged on. I'm terrible
as it is, and I think I've got worse last week.
Speaker 3 (24:27):
So yeah, yeah, I haven't forgot to do my team,
but there are I think I'm probably twenty points twenty
spots off the lead, so there's a few punters out
there gunning for that super rug Good Josey.
Speaker 2 (24:37):
That's right. We'll get in touch with us as well
on the mail bag as well. We'll bring that back
next week Rugby Direct at Newstalk ZB dot co dot
nz or any questions you can flick us to them
on our social media on Twitter as well. Liam always
a pleasure to catch up. We're back to normal next
week Monday Thursday, barring any sort of breaking news. Look
forward to catching up next week.
Speaker 3 (24:58):
Yeah, I might try to flap my one working wing
and come and join Gangs Studio on Monday.
Speaker 2 (25:04):
Eliot lovely to see your face, William. A good weekend.
Enjoy your super Rugby. We'll catch you next week on
Rugby Director. Thanks to Mark Kelly for producing. And have
it health Fuzzy your book today and stay in again
Speaker 1 (25:18):
For more from news Talks at b Listen live on
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