Aotearoa Rugby Pod

Their attack is electric, their defence has tightened, and they’re winning games in multiple ways.So the big question is: who can actually stop the Hurricanes, now they most likely have home advantage through the playoffs?There appears to be one major contender and one dark horse.The ARP crew also breaks down the top six contenders with two rounds to go until the playoffs.

The Aotearoa Rugby Pod team debates whether Richie Mo'unga should return from Japan and immediately into the All Blacks.Would changing overseas eligibility policies strengthen New Zealand rugby or undermine the system?The crew also unpack B.I.G.G.A, the Dave Rennie work-rate metric and how it could shape future All Blacks selections. Could it make Lucas Casey a great option?Plus, the Hurricanes beating the Blues and James Parsons' tense post-match exchange with Vern Cotter.

Black Ferns and Blues co-captain Ruahei Demant has experienced the other side! A sabbatical to English club Bristol has taught her plenty about rugby in the home of the World Cup champions. She has returned home with new knowledge and a desire to use it to help the Blues defend their Aupiki title.She chats with Aotearoa Rugby Pod about... What she learnt playing for Bristol Bears Women in England’s PWRHow overseas rugby challenged and improved her gameThe secrets she learnt about Canada's success What’s already changed under new Black Ferns coach Whitney HansenYoung stars Amarante Sititi and Braxton Sorenson-McGeeThe stacked Blues Women squad ahead of their Super Rugby Aupiki defenceA great insight into the growth of the women’s game globally and where New Zealand rugby is heading next.

Why didn’t New Zealand win the Under 20 Rugby Championship — and why did the Baby Boks look so dominant throughout the tournament?The Aotearoa Rugby Pod breaks down how South Africa built such a powerful U20 side and discusses NZ prioritising different goals at age-grade level.

The All Blacks are stacked with midfield options.Quinn Tupaea is in outstanding form, Billy Proctor is excelling, Timoci Tavatavanawai's becoming impossible to ignore and Leicester Fainga’anuku's causing havoc wherever he plays.So does Jordie Barrett have to shift from 12 back to fullback?The Aotearoa Rugby Pod debates the balance of the All Blacks backline, including Josh Moorby's chances, before getting into who will make the Super Rugby top 6.Later this week .. Under 20s Rugby Championship review + Black Ferns captain Ruahei Demant on how English rugby opened her eyes to a different way.

The Highlanders keep finding themselves in the fight against top Super Rugby sides — but too often they leave with nothing to show for it.So why does the same story keep repeating for Jamie Joseph's men?The Aotearoa Rugby Pod breaks down why the Highlanders are competitive for long stretches, yet continue to lose tight games. Right now, the Highlanders might be Super Rugby’s most frustrating team: good enough to push anyone… but unable to consistently finish the job.

The All Blacks back three is a big debate heading into the international season.Aotearoa Rugby Pod dives into why Caleb Clarke, Caleb Tangitau and Will Jordan could be the most balanced option — combining power, speed and elite game awareness.

The All Blacks selection picture is tightening and some big calls will need to be made.This episode of the Aotearoa Rugby Pod focuses on the key positional battles at halfback, centre and lock, with Scott Barrett, Noah Hotham and Billy Proctor in the spotlight. The team also breaks down Super Rugby Pacific Round 12, identifying the performances and trends shaping national selection, before discussing the significance of Gilbert Enoka’s return to the All Blacks management group.