Rugby's Origins, Bifurcation and International Expansion

After a brief chat about some recently cycling we are joined by journalist Mike Mehall Wood to discuss the origins of rugby league and rugby union, including the sociocultural factors that played into it, the week to week product and international expansion. Mike is a rugby league journalist currently writing for Roar Rugby League. He has previously written for Forbes, VICE, LADbible, Dazed and HighSnobiety over a long career. He holds a degree in politics and cultural studies from the university of Leeds with a focus predominantly on the relationship between nationalism, ethnicity and culture.(00:00) Introduction(03:47) Classics Season(12:42) Women’s Cycling Development and Depth(27:53) Interview Starts(30:20) What is a Cricket Tragic? (32:04) What is the Difference Between Rugby League and Rugby Union?(38:10) Does Rugby Union Take Inspiration from Rugby League Rules?   (39:46) Differences in Competitions Between Rugby League and Rugby Union(45:53) How Did Rugby Union and Rugby League Split? (51:07) Have Any Players Transitions Between the Sports(58:34) Why is There No Rugby League in South Africa? (61:20) Body Sizes in Rugby League and Rugby Union (63:05) What Are Salaries in Rugby League?(64:56) International Rugby League Thanks to Precision Fuel and Hydration for their sponsorship, use the link below to get 15% off your first order and support the podcast: https://visit.pfandh.com/theonepercentbetterpodcastIf you’re unsure how which products to use or how to plan your race nutrition check out Precision’s Fuel & Hydration Planner (if you follow this you will have your discount applied automatically on your first order too): https://visit.pfandh.com/onepercentfuelplannerLinks to Mike: X/Twitter: @mikemeehallwood Submit topics, feedback or questions to us on Instagram via DM or to the email address: [email protected] us on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/onepercentbetterpod?igsh=MW1tcGM4MHQ4bm5oaw== Follow us on X:@PodOnepercent Join the Strava Group:https://www.strava.com/clubs/onepercentbetterpod Royalty Free Music from Tunetank.com Track: Trendy Style by PillowVibes https://tunetank.com/track/1027-trendy-style/