Super Rugby Podcast · Super Rugby Podcast

Should NZ and England change the way they select players

·1 hr 1 min·5 clips

Damien suggests letting All Blacks go overseas after six years of Super Rugby to solve New Zealand's player drain.

This episode of the Super Rugby Podcast features hosts Damien Warren and Toby Harris debating rugby union's current issues. They analyze selection policies, coaching futures, and Six Nations performances. The hosts, known for their banter, frame discussions around a "glass half full or half empty" theme. They debate whether New Zealand and England should scrap rules requiring players to be based domestically for national selection. The hosts cite players like Caleb Clarke, David Havili, and George Bridge who are or will be ineligible after moving overseas. Warren proposes a new rule allowing selection after six years of Super Rugby service, aiming to retain developing talent. They compare New Zealand's model to South Africa's open policy and England's cohesion challenges. The conversation shifts to private club ownership, referencing models in France, Japan, and Silver Lake's investment in New Zealand Rugby. Steve Borthwick's future as England coach is scrutinized following three consecutive losses to Scotland, Ireland, and Italy. They note England's historic first loss to Italy and a potential leadership rift, highlighting an on-field argument involving Maro Itoje. Borthwick's substitution timing, waiting until the 73rd minute against Italy, is criticized as a loss of nerve. The hosts set a verdict: Borthwick should be sacked if England loses to France, regardless of performance. Dave Rennie's appointment as All Blacks coach is analyzed, with both hosts endorsing him for his experience, including back-to-back Super Rugby titles with the Chiefs and under-20 World Cup wins. They praise Rennie for preparing 100 video clips in his interview to illustrate improvements and for his "arm over the shoulder while digging you in the ribs" coaching philosophy. The hosts contrast Rennie's clean slate with former coach Scott Robertson's perceived factional divides. Scotland's Six Nations wins over England and France are highlighted as impressive, with their expansive backline play earning particular praise. The hosts note the irony that Scotland's coach was nearly sacked and speculate on Ireland or France winning the tournament. The episode maintains a conversational and debate-driven tone, filled with personal anecdotes and lighthearted insults. It blends serious rugby analysis with casual, humorous digressions on topics like petrol prices and fashion. Listeners who enjoy informal rugby banter and opinions on international coaching and policy will appreciate this episode. Those seeking a strictly structured, news-focused analysis might find the tangents and personal style less engaging.

As heard by us

A chatty rugby debate that turns weekend results into a sharper question about how teams are judged.

This episode is a loose, lively rugby chat shaped by a weekend of international results and the familiar question of who gets trusted when the pressure climbs.

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Want a blunt rugby chat that starts with banter and ends on England-France?

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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