PODCAST · sports
Rugby Direct
by Newstalk ZB
Every week, Rugby Direct gives you the lowdown on all you need to know from the rugby world. Whether it's the All Blacks, Black Ferns, NPC, Farah Palmer Cup, or just what's going down at the club grounds, we have you covered on your home for all things rugby. Listen on iHeartRadio for every angle, every moment, and every opinion.
Episodes
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Rugby Direct Episode 264: All Blacks ring the changes
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier join us from Sydney as attention turns to the second Bledisloe Cup test. The All Blacks side has been named and coach Dave Rennie has made several notable changes to his starting XV. The boys break down the key selection calls,...
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Rugby Direct Episode 263: Fortress Eden delivers again
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down another dominant All Blacks performance at Eden Park, as New Zealand extended its incredible winning streak at the fortress and kept the Bledisloe Cup safely locked away for another year. What were the key factors...
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Rugby Direct Episode 263: Bledisloe questions as injury toll mounts
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier unpack a growing crisis at first five for the All Blacks, with Richie Mo'unga the latest star playmaker to join the injury casualty ward. The boys break down the All Blacks squad named for the opening Bledisloe Cup test against...
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Rugby Direct Episode 262: One last home test for 2026
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier look ahead to the All Blacks' final home test of 2026 as they prepare to welcome a confident Wallabies side fresh off a statement victory over South Africa. Can New Zealand finish their home campaign on a high, or are Australia...
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Rugby Direct Episode 261: Bledisloe pressure builds as Wallabies fire a warning shot
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down the All Blacks’ 34-man squad for the two-test Bledisloe Cup series. With Ruben Love sidelined by an ankle injury, they assess Richie Mo’unga’s opportunity at first five, where Beauden Barrett fits, and the selection...
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Rugby Direct Episode 260: Lessons from South Africa, questions for NZ Rugby
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier revisit the All Blacks' tour of South Africa with the benefit of hindsight. A few weeks on from the series defeat, the boys unpack what really went wrong, what positives can be taken forward, and what it revealed about the state...
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Rugby Direct Episode 259: The South African reality check
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith reflects on the All Blacks’ challenging tour of South Africa and the key factors behind the 3-1 series defeat. Where did it unravel for Dave Rennie side, what lessons can be taken from the campaign, and what needs to change as attention turns…
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Rugby Direct Episode 258: One Last Shot at the Springboks
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith dials in from Baltimore as the All Blacks unveil their side for the fourth and final test of The Greatest Rivalry tour. Richie Mo'unga returns to the No. 10 jersey, while Codie Taylor captains the All Blacks in a test for the first time. Is…
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Rugby Direct Episode 257: Beaten by the Boks or Beaten by Themselves?
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier join the podcast for one final dispatch from South Africa as the All Blacks' hopes of a series victory come to an end. After slipping to a 2-1 series defeat against the Springboks, the boys break down where it all went wrong.…
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Rugby Direct Episode 256: Taylor axed, Lakai starts - have the All Blacks got it right?
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier join the podcast from Johannesburg as the All Blacks unveil a bold new look for the third test against South Africa. With veteran hooker Cody Taylor omitted from the matchday 23, Sam Darry promoted into the second row in place…
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Rugby Direct Episode 255: Cape Town Crisis? How the All Blacks Can Fight Back
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier join the podcast from Cape Town to dissect the All Blacks' second Test defeat to South Africa. Where did it all go wrong for Dave Rennie's side? The pair break down the key moments that shaped the result, assess the selection...
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Rugby Direct Episode 254: Knockout blow or Bok fightback?
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier join the podcast from Cape Town ahead of a massive second test between the All Blacks and Springboks. With New Zealand chasing a series-clinching 2-0 lead and South Africa desperate to square the ledger, the boys break down the...
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Rugby Direct Episode 253: Boks Blown Away: The Ellis Park Upset
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier dissect the All Blacks' historic 17-point victory over the Springboks at Ellis Park, one of the country's greatest results on South African soil. What does the statement win mean for the remainder of the series, and have the All...
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Rugby Direct Episode 252: All Blacks v Springboks - The Great Rivalry Returns
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down the team lists ahead of the opening test of Rugby's Greatest Rivalry. Who were the biggest selection surprises? Which side holds the early advantage? The boys leave no stone unturned as they analyse the key matchups…
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Rugby Direct Episode 251: Bulls Beaten, Boks Await, Picking Rennie's First Test Team
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down the All Blacks' emphatic 50-19 victory over the Bulls as preparations ramp up for the opening test against South Africa. The boys reveal their picks for Dave Rennie's matchday 23, debate the biggest selection…
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Rugby Direct Episode 250: Mo'unga recalled as All Blacks finalise first test plans
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier join us from Johannesburg to break down the shock recall of Richie Mo'unga to the All Blacks squad. Is he the right man to replace Billy Proctor, or does the move raise more questions than answers? The team also counts down to…
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Rugby Direct Episode 249: Stormers Review, Proctor Blow & Sharks Changes
The All Blacks are up and running in South Africa, but was their win over the Stormers convincing enough? On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier join us from Durban to break down the tour opener, unpack the sweeping changes for the Sharks match, and discuss the…
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Rugby Direct Episode 248: Tour launch - The first team is in
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier touch down in Cape Town and waste no time diving into the first team naming of the All Blacks' South African tour. What can we read into Dave Rennie's selections to face the Stormers on Saturday morning? The boys break down the...
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Rugby Direct Episode 247: Rugby's greatest rivalry tour: The squad is set
Rugby Direct is back as Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down the All Blacks' 44-man squad named for South Africa and the United States on the inaugural Rugby's Greatest Rivalry Tour. All Blacks coach Dave Rennie and selectors Sir Graham Henry and Neil Barnes have retained all 34 players from...
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Rugby Direct Episode 246: Cameron Suafoa on rugby, life and his terminal cancer diagnosis
Rugby Direct is back with Elliott Smith and Liam Napier, joined in studio by Blues loose forward Cameron Suafoa for an inspiring and candid conversation. Suafoa opens up on one of the toughest periods of his life and career after being diagnosed with a rare sarcoma, detailing the battle that...
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Rugby Direct Episode 245: Ireland Beaten, South Africa Beckons
Rugby Direct is back as Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down the All Blacks’ emphatic 40-21 win over Ireland, extending their remarkable unbeaten streak at Eden Park. The boys review a perfect opening block of the Nations Championship, with the All Blacks going three from three, and assess…
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Rugby Direct Episode 244: The team is in - Rennie’s big calls
Rugby Direct is back as Elliott Smith and Liam Napier discuss the upcoming clash between the All Blacks and Ireland. Dave Rennie has named his side for this weekend's highly anticipated test with a number of key reinforcements added to strengthen the All Blacks' front line. Have the right calls...
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Rugby Direct Episode 243: All Blacks Win Big, But Are They Getting Better?
Rugby Direct is back as Elliott Smith and Liam Napier dissect the All Blacks' far-from-convincing 47-17 victory over Italy in Wellington. Despite the comfortable scoreline, questions remain about the performance, selections, and overall direction of the side after two tests under Dave Rennie. The...
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Rugby Direct Episode 242: Five changes and a fresh look ABs
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down the All Blacks' five changes for Saturday's test against Italy and ask the big question: has Dave Rennie gone too far with his selections? The boys also look ahead to the second test of 2026, discussing what the…
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Rugby Direct Episode 241: A Winning Start, Rennie’s All Blacks Era Begins
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier dissect the All Blacks' winning start to the Dave Rennie era after their victory over France in Christchurch. What impressed most? Where are the areas for improvement? Plus, the lads cast an eye around the rugby world to break...
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Rugby Direct Episode 240: Rennie's first big calls: Right or wrong?
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down Dave Rennie's first All Blacks team naming ahead of the test against France. Has Rennie got the big calls right? With Ruben Love at No. 10, Luke Jacobson wearing the seven jersey, and Damian McKenzie at fullback, the...
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Rugby Direct Episode 239: Rennie’s first roll of the dice - who makes the 23?
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct with Elliott Smith and Liam Napier, the boys are in Christchurch counting down to the first All Blacks test under Dave Rennie. Who will make his first 23? Plus the ANZAC Day Bledisloe is locked in, is this a good thing for rugby or not? LISTEN ABOVE See...
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Rugby Direct Episode 238: In, out, and unlucky - breaking down Rennie’s first squad
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down Dave Rennie’s first All Blacks squad - who’s in, who’s new, and who can feel unlucky to miss out. The boys also reflect on a one-sided Super Rugby Pacific final, with the Hurricanes delivering a dominant performance…
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Rugby Direct Episode 237: Finals Fever and All Blacks Picks
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier count down to the Super Rugby Pacific final – the teams are locked in, but who’s lifting the trophy on Saturday night? The boys also give their predictions for the All Blacks squad ahead of Monday’s announcement... who will make...
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Rugby Direct Episode 236: Blowouts Before the Big Dance
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down a pair of one-sided Super Rugby Pacific semi-finals and what they mean heading into the big dance. With both the Hurricanes and Chiefs dominant in their respective match-ups, the boys assess where the final might be…
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Rugby Direct Episode 235: Semi-final showdowns - who's making the big dance?
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier dive headfirst into the business end of the Super Rugby Pacific season, previewing the upcoming semi-finals and breaking down who’s best positioned to book a spot in the big dance. They run the ruler over each matchup, analyse…
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Rugby Direct Episode 234: Cane train charging: Semis loom and ABs coaching coup
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier react to a major coaching coup for New Zealand Rugby, with Tony Brown signing on as an All Blacks assistant coach from 2028. The boys also turn their attention to the Super Rugby Pacific semi-finals - can anyone stop the Cane...
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Rugby Direct Episode 233: Breaking down the key matchups of the Super Rugby playoffs
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier dive headfirst into the business end of the Super Rugby Pacific season, breaking down all the key matchups as the playoffs get underway. Plus, Super Rugby Pacific CEO Jack Mesley joins the podcast for an in-depth conversation...
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Rugby Direct Episode 232: All eyes on the title - looking ahead to the Super Rugby Pacific finals
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down a blockbuster playoff weekend as the race for the title heats up. With the finals now locked in, who are the genuine favourites and which side could swoop in late and steal the win? Plus, they dig into the latest on...
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Rugby Direct - Bruce Sharrock tackles the biggest issues facing rugby
A big-name guest on Rugby Direct this week, as Elliott Smith and Liam Napier were joined in studio by the highly influential player agent Bruce Sharrock. The trio tackle the biggest issues facing New Zealand rugby – the fight against league, where the game is heading, and what must change if…
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Rugby Direct: Episode 230
Big news on Rugby Direct! Elliott Smith and Liam Napier discuss the news the Crusaders are set to usher in a new head coach for 2027 – a story broken by Napier himself. Plus, it’s the final round of Super Rugby Pacific, so the lads run the ruler over every matchup, including the headline debate:...
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Rugby Direct Ep 229
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down the Crusaders keeping their hopes of a home playoff alive, while the Hurricanes lock up top spot and secure home advantage throughout the postseason. Plus, the boys look ahead to the future of Super Rugby — could a...
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Rugby Direct: Episode 228
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier look ahead to the penultimate round of Super Rugby Pacific — can we expect any upsets as the playoffs loom? The boys also dive into the latest confirmed departures among Kiwi Super Rugby players and ask the big question: is New...
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Rugby Direct: Episode 227
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down the Super Rugby run home — with the top two all but locked in, can anyone stop the red-hot Hurricanes? Plus, the future of rising star Fehi Fineanganofo — is there a genuine chance he stays in New Zealand and pushes…
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Rugby Direct: Episode 226
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier react to Dave Rennie fronting the media for the first time since he took charge of the All Blacks. They also unpack the surprise return of Sir Graham Henry as a selector, and look ahead to a crucial round 14 of Super Rugby...
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Rugby Direct - Steve Lancaster talks challenges shaping rugby in Aotearoa
In this special episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier are joined in studio by the new New Zealand Rugby CEO Steve Lancaster. The trio dive into the game’s biggest talking points - from governance and the future of Super Rugby to player pathways and the challenges shaping rugby in...
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Rugby Direct: Episode 224
On this week’s episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down all the biggest talking points from Round 13. Another All Black is set to head offshore at season’s end, NZ Rugby digs in on its stance around Mo’unga and Frizell returning via the NPC, and the pressure mounts on…
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Rugby Direct: Episode 223
On this week’s episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier delve into the big breaking news: the appointment of Steve Lancaster as NZ Rugby’s new CEO. The boys give their first reaction and unpack what the appointment means for the game. There’s also a cause for concern for the...
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Rugby Direct: Episode 222
On this week’s episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier dissect round 12 of Super Rugby. The top three are pulling clear - but who’s best placed to grab the final three playoff spots as the race tightens? LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Rugby Direct: Episode 221
On this week’s episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down the Christchurch Super Round – what worked, what didn’t, and whether it could help revive Super Rugby. Plus, they preview round 12 of the competition and debate the return of the ANZAC Day Bledisloe Cup – is it a...
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Rugby Direct: Episode 220
On this week’s episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier were joined by Hurricanes co-owner Malcolm Gillies for a wide-ranging chat about Super Rugby Pacific, including the growing challenges surround team ownership in the competition. The boys also look ahead to the highly…
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Rugby Direct: Episode 219
On this week’s episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier rip into a massive Round 10. The Hurricanes’ title charge takes a serious hit after a stumbling loss to the Chiefs, the Black Ferns flex their muscle with a statement win over Canada, and there’s no shortage of other talking...
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Rugby Direct: Episode 218
On this week’s episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier delve into the uncertain future of Moana Pasifika and what their potential exit could mean for Super Rugby as a whole. How would the competition be reshaped if they were to walk away? The boys also preview Round 10 of Super…
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Rugby Direct: Episode 217
On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier unpack all the fallout from Round 9 of Super Rugby Pacific. The boys break down the biggest talking points from the weekend - including the big question of whether anyone can slow down the red‑hot Hurricanes. They also review…
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Rugby Direct: Episode 216
On the latest Rugby Direct podcast, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier discuss a busy post-Easter weekend of news in the rugby world, with former All Black Shannon Frizell returning home and New Zealand Rugby closing in on a high performance director announcement. We also look back at a truncated…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Every week, Rugby Direct gives you the lowdown on all you need to know from the rugby world. Whether it's the All Blacks, Black Ferns, NPC, Farah Palmer Cup, or just what's going down at the club grounds, we have you covered on your home for all things rugby. Listen on iHeartRadio for every angle, every moment, and every opinion.
HOSTED BY
Newstalk ZB
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Rugby Direct have?
Rugby Direct currently has 276 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Rugby Direct about?
Every week, Rugby Direct gives you the lowdown on all you need to know from the rugby world. Whether it's the All Blacks, Black Ferns, NPC, Farah Palmer Cup, or just what's going down at the club grounds, we have you covered on your home for all things rugby. Listen on iHeartRadio for every angle,...
How often does Rugby Direct release new episodes?
Rugby Direct publishes regularly with 276 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to Rugby Direct?
You can listen to Rugby Direct on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Rugby Direct?
Rugby Direct is created and hosted by Newstalk ZB.
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