Episodes
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Game altering red and yellow cards continued to be flashed across the Rugby fields of Europe at the weekend with evidence piling up that these officiating decisions are playing a major role in determining results.
Across the weekend, yellow and red cards swung key matches, from Japan v Wales to Scotland v Argentina. David Pembroke and Ewen McKenzie lay out why the current approach isn’t working, what’s changed in modern contact situations, and how World Rugby could fix the problem without compromising player safety.
They also wrap England’s breakthrough performance against the All Blacks, Ireland’s dominance over the Wallabies, and Japan’s near-miss in Cardiff — plus a look at other International results and listener comments and questions.
Also in this episode
South Africa v Italy — bench impact, scrum power and late momentum
• England v All Blacks — George Ford, drop-goals and aerial control
• Wallabies v Ireland — selection rotation, confidence and high-ball issues
• Japan v Wales — the yellow-card turning points
• Scotland v Argentina — how a 21–0 lead evaporated
• France v Fiji, USA v Romania, Portugal, Georgia and more
PLUS: The growing pressure on World Rugby to communicate clearly and act decisively on officiating, card reviews and player safety.
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One sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.
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Thanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.
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England v New Zealand at Twickenham headlines a massive weekend of international rugby — and Eddie Jones believes this could be England’s breakthrough game. David Pembroke, Eddie Jones, and Ewen McKenzie unpack every major storyline, from selection surprises to tactical battles and referee influence.
They break down why England may now be 12 months ahead of the All Blacks in their development, what Scott Robertson’s side must fix, and how both benches could decide the final 20 minutes.
The episode then shifts to Australia v Ireland, as James O’Connor returns at 10 and Sam Prendergast takes over Ireland’s attack. Plus: South Africa rotate 11 players, Italy push for another major scalp, and Japan eye their own breakthrough moment against Wales.
Also in this episode
England v All Blacks — selection calls, matchups, and the psychological barrier
• Wallabies v Ireland — O’Connor’s return, breakdown warfare, and key referee factors
• South Africa v Italy — Rassie’s rotation gamble + Italy’s improvement
• Scotland v Argentina — consistency v creativity
• Japan v Wales — can Japan breakthrough in Cardiff?
• France v Fiji — redemption after a frustrating week
PLUS: The state of refereeing, yellow-card impact, global development, and why illegal streaming could threaten rugby’s financial future.
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One sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.
📧 Get in touch: [email protected]
Thanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.
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Missing episodes?
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Eddie Jones says South Africa’s 32–17 win over France, achieved with 14 men in the second half was a masterclass in adaptability. Eddie breaks down the Springboks’ bench strength, tactical flexibility, and the controversial red card that changed everything.
After a hard-fought 41–10 loss to Ireland, Japan’s improvement under Eddie Jones is clear — but the coach says there’s still plenty to fix before facing Wales. Eddie joins David Pembroke to discuss the lessons from a brutal three-week schedule against Australia, South Africa and Ireland, and how the Brave Blossoms must turn effort into wins.
They unpack Italy’s win over Australia, England’s unbeaten run and the return of the post-match function — this episode dives deep into what’s working, what’s not, and where the global game is heading.
Also in this episode
· Japan’s learning curve – consistency, mindset, and composure
· South Africa v France – red card debate and Rassie’s tactics
· Italy v Wallabies – Eddie’s positive take on Australia’s struggles
· All Blacks v Scotland – depth, rotation and recovery
· 2003 World Cup memories and lessons from building great teams
· Wales preview – Japan’s next big test
PLUS: Inside rugby’s evolving rituals, the power of the bench, and why emotional control could decide the next big upset.
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One sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.
Get in touch: [email protected]
Thanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.
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Europe’s rugby calendar explodes this weekend — and David Pembroke and Ewen McKenzie are here to guide you through every major test match.
From France’s emotional rematch with South Africa at Stade de France, to New Zealand’s century-long dominance over Scotland at Murrayfield, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Eddie Jones’ Japan face Ireland, the Wallabies return to Italy seeking redemption, and Argentina take on Wales in Cardiff — all while rugby fever sweeps across the continent.
Ewen dissects team tactics, key match-ups, and coaching philosophies — while David brings the global context, showcasing just how much rugby is being played around the world this weekend.
Also in this episode
· France v South Africa — revenge or repeat in Paris?
· All Blacks v Scotland — can history finally be broken at Murrayfield?
· Ireland v Japan — Eddie Jones’ third-week test
· Wallabies v Italy — Carter Gordon’s comeback and Joe Schmidt’s strategy
· Argentina v Wales — can Los Pumas keep their hot streak alive?
· Plus: more on Ewen’s menagerie
PLUS: The global scale of rugby this weekend — from Bristol to Bucharest — and why the sport’s future lies in celebrating its international diversity.
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One sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.
📧 Get in touch: [email protected]
Thanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.
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England’s structure, South Africa’s power, and Japan’s painful lessons headline another massive week of international rugby.
Host David Pembroke is joined by Ewen McKenzie and Eddie Jones to unpack the Wallabies’ 25–7 defeat at Twickenham, Japan’s heavy loss to the Springboks, and the chaotic All Blacks v Ireland clash in Chicago.
From Eddie’s insights on South Africa’s evolution to McKenzie’s sharp critique of Australia’s attack, this episode dives deep into what’s shaping rugby’s November series — and what’s next for the world’s best.
Also in this episode:
• England’s balanced back row and perfect bench timing
• Australia’s attritional attack — why it’s costing energy and excitement
• South Africa v Japan — lessons from the world champions
• New Zealand v Ireland — a missed showcase opportunity
• Refereeing standards and the 20-minute red card debate
• Global rugby’s communication problem — and how to fix it
PLUS: How Eddie’s Japan are learning fast against the world’s toughest sides.
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One sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.
📧 Get in touch: [email protected]
Thanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.
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The Springboks are at full strength — and Eddie Jones’ Japan are the next to face them.
This week, David Pembroke catches up with Eddie from London ahead of a colossal clash at Wembley, while Ewen McKenzie joins from Australia to preview England v Australia, Ireland v New Zealand, and the biggest weekend of international rugby this year.
Eddie reflects on South Africa’s power, Japan’s preparation, and why he’s embracing the “Rumble in the Jungle” mindset. Ewen analyses the Wallabies’ selection, England’s tactics, and shares how coaches use data, discipline, and dialogue with referees to shape modern rugby.
Also in this episode:
South Africa v Japan – respect shown with a full-strength side
Eddie Jones on Japan’s mindset and travel challenge
Hybrid players – the evolution of rugby roles
England v Australia – Ford’s experience vs fresh Wallabies energy
The referee-laptop story explained
The future of global rugby calendars and competitions
PLUS: How rugby is growing across Europe and Asia, from Spain to Sri Lanka, and why accessible broadcasting is key to the sport’s future.
Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | Substack
One sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.
📧 Get in touch: [email protected]
Thanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.
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November rugby is here — and it started with a statement in Tokyo. Japan pushed Australia all the way, proving they’re closing the gap and ready for regular clashes with Tier 1 teams. David Pembroke and Ewen McKenzie break down what it means for both nations and where this rivalry goes next.
With huge tests in London and Chicago — South Africa, England, Australia, Ireland and New Zealand all in action — the stakes rise fast. Who can manage travel, cohesion and selection pressure through rugby’s biggest month?
Eddie Jones joins to share his insights from inside the Japanese camp and how they plan to keep accelerating.
Also in this episode:
Japan’s set-piece, defence and young stars stepping upWhy structured November fixtures are crucial for growthEngland’s No.10 debate and Wallabies’ cohesionChicago test hype — are Ireland or the All Blacks slipping?Why Europe’s lower tiers are more important than everPLUS: The business and cultural opportunities rugby is missing in Japan.
Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | Substack
One sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.
📧 Get in touch: [email protected]
Thanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.
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Women’s rugby is entering a new era — and Japan is right in the middle of it.
In this episode of Rugby Unity in Japan, David Pembroke speaks with Lesley McKenzie, Head Coach of Japan’s Women’s 15s team, about how far the program has come and what must happen next to unlock its full potential. From pathways and professionalisation to international partnerships and community investment, this is a roadmap for the future of the women’s game.
Lesley brings valuable insight from coaching in New Zealand and Japan, the lessons of two Women’s Rugby World Cups, and why collaboration across the Asia-Pacific is critical.
Also in this episode:
Rebuilding Japan’s 15s program from the ground upAustralia’s stalled progress in the women’s gameWhy Japan’s fast, high-skill style is so exciting to watchThe 2019 Rugby World Cup’s lasting impactCanada’s rise and expanding rugby audienceHow investment in coaching changes everythingPLUS: Why community rugby must be protected to grow the global game.
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One sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.
📧 Get in touch: [email protected]
Thanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.
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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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From downtown Tokyo, David Pembroke is joined by Eddie Jones and Ewen McKenzie for a revealing look ahead to Japan v Australia — a test match full of pressure, pride, and opportunity.
With Joe Schmidt naming a drastically changed Wallabies side, the trio unpack what this means for cohesion, confidence, and strategy. Eddie reflects on Japan’s strong week of preparation, how his young side is learning consistency, and what it takes to go toe-to-toe with a major rugby nation. Meanwhile, Ewen explains how Japan can exploit Australia’s lack of combinations and set-piece rhythm.
They also zoom out to the global picture — from referee inconsistency and breakdown laws to Japan’s new tier-one status and what it means for rugby’s future.
Also in this episode:
Wallabies selection surprises and tactical falloutJapan’s fast start and accuracy under pressureWhy the “fatigue factor” is a myth in modern rugbyManaging nerves and mindset before a home testJapan’s fan culture and its evolving place in world rugbyWhat tier-one status really means for Japan’s futurePLUS: Your questions answered!
Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | Substack
One sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.
📧 Get in touch: [email protected]
Thanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.
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Japan is fast becoming one of rugby’s most exciting frontiers — but is it ready to stand among the world’s elite?
In this episode, David Pembroke sits down with Glenn Delaney, Head Coach of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Sagamihara DynaBoars, to discuss Japan’s rapid rise, its unique rugby culture, and what the nation brings to the global game. From the passion of local fans to the challenge of developing homegrown talent, Delaney shares an insider’s view of how Japan can secure its place as a true Tier 1 powerhouse.
They also look ahead to Japan v Australia, exploring how both sides’ attacking DNA could make for one of the most entertaining contests of the season.
Also in this episode:
The legacy of the 2019 Rugby World Cup and Japan’s post-COVID resurgenceHow League One is attracting world-class talent and coachesThe difference between Japan’s player development and the New Zealand/European systemsWhat sets Japanese fans apart — loyalty, connection, and respectThe surge of women’s rugby and how it’s changing the gameJapan’s upcoming clashes with Australia, South Africa, Ireland, and WalesPLUS: Glenn’s vision for rugby’s global future — and why Japan’s success matters to everyone who loves the game.
Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | Substack
One sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.
📧 Get in touch: [email protected]
Thanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.
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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Australia A’s 71–7 win over Japan A was more than a scoreline — it was a snapshot of where Japanese rugby stands right now.
In this episode, David Pembroke and Ewen McKenzie dissect the match from Tokyo, joined by Eddie Jones, who explains what his players learned, how Japan must evolve, and why he’s focused on long-term growth over short-term wins. They also look ahead to this Saturday’s Japan v Australia test, asking what needs to change for the Brave Blossoms to compete.
From tactical breakdowns to cultural insights, this is an honest look at what went wrong, what went right, and how Japan’s identity is shaping its rugby future.
Also in this episode:
Japan A vs Australia A — the key moments that defined the matchWhy Japan’s line-out and maul strategy failed under pressureEwen McKenzie’s player-by-player analysisEddie Jones on discipline, learning and adaptabilityJapan’s broadcast brilliance – lessons for world rugbyThe high-school and university system holding back Japan’s elitePLUS: The “samurai spirit” driving Japanese rugby and how Eddie Jones plans to modernise it before facing the Wallabies this weekend in Tokyo.
Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | Substack
One sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.
📧 Get in touch: [email protected]
Thanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.
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Welcome to Rugby Unity in Japan — a special international series exploring rugby’s global future.
Host David Pembroke is joined by Will Genia, former Wallaby and now coach in Japan, to discuss how Japanese rugby has evolved into one of the sport’s most exciting frontiers.
From the country’s grassroots tournaments to Eddie Jones’ revitalised national team, Genia shares rare insights into Japan’s unique rugby culture, its world-class talent, and its growing influence on the global game.
Also in this episode:
The family-first spirit driving Japanese rugbyHow League One clubs could join global competitionsEddie Jones’ blueprint for Japan’s next generationWill Genia’s lessons from transitioning to coachingWhy Japan’s grassroots engagement outshines many rugby nationsThe cultural respect that sets Japan apart on and off the fieldPLUS: Rugby Unity discovers how this nation can help secure rugby’s global future.
Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | Substack
One sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.
📧 Get in touch: [email protected]
Thanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Rugby Unity hits the road this with David Pembroke heading to Land of the Rising Sun to understand how Japan can “help secure the future prosperity of Rugby Union around the world. Pemby joins Eddie Jones from a crammed space just outside the Men’s toilet at the Tokyo Club a week out from the anticipated Wallabies v Japan test — they are joined later by Ewen McKenzie to unpack selections, form, and the shifting world order in rugby.
Pemby and Eddie mix it up again about R360 while they agree that the threat of Rugby League in the Pacific is real, present and dangerous. The episode tackles the power plays, politics, and possibilities shaping the sport’s future.
Also in this episode
Japan’s 2035 World Cup bid and why it matters
The $600 million Rugby League investment changing the Pacific
R360 vs traditional rugby — disruption or destruction?
Wallabies squad depth and the risks of rotation
Ewen McKenzie on building a winning habit
Refereeing, red cards, and restoring consistency
PLUS: our regular feature of the “Third Voice’’ the global fans’ giving their views on how we can approve the appeal of Rugby and why unity above all else is the future to the game’s global success.
Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | Substack
One sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.
Get in touch: [email protected]
Thanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.
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Eddie Jones is once again in the spotlight — coaching against Australia for the first time since the 2023 Rugby World Cup where just about everything went wrong for him. Host David Pembroke and co-host Ewen McKenzie discuss Eddie’s approach to coaching and how he will be planning to bring about an upset victory over the Wallabies.
With international rugby taking a break ahead of the Autumn internationals, this episode discusses coaching philosophies and player welfare, the challenges of different professional competitions and suggestions from the Rugby Unity audience. McKenzie shares rare insights about the knowledge he acquired in his time working alongside Eddie at the Brumbies and Wallabies. The show also pays tribute to former England Captain Lewis Moody following his diagnosis of Motor neurone disease and explores how World Rugby is reshaping player safety.
Also in this episode:
Inside Eddie’s Japan setup and training calendar
Why confidence comes from clarity, not emotion
The future of player welfare and new match-load rules
How the Top 14 and Premiership got it right — and why changing Super Rugby might have caused more troubles that it was worth.
Reviving fan culture in Australia: lessons from the Waratahs
Your ideas on referees, scrums, and yellow cards
PLUS: David heads to Tokyo for a special Japan series — conversations with Eddie Jones, Japanese Rugby leaders, and key figures shaping the game’s next decade.
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One sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.
Get in touch: [email protected]
Thanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.
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Rugby’s balance of power is changing fast.
In this episode, David Pembroke is joined by Eddie Jones to break down the biggest stories shaking the sport — from Carter Gordon’s return to union to South Africa’s unstoppable rise and the looming impact of the rebel R360 League.
Eddie reveals how he’s preparing Japan for clashes against the Wallabies and Springboks, why refereeing consistency is rugby’s biggest problem, and how the game must evolve to stay relevant.
Also in this episode:
Carter Gordon’s $100k release and return to rugbyLeague vs union fitness — what players gain and loseSouth Africa’s winning formula and New Zealand’s development slideThe aerial contest — rugby’s new battlegroundThe truth about R360 and player contractsWhy Gregor Townsend’s Red Bull Rugby role is a win for coachesHow Beauden Barrett and Damian McKenzie influence Japan’s game stylePLUS: How Eddie Jones is re-igniting the Brave Blossoms ahead of the Wallabies test.
Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | Substack
One sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.
📧 Get in touch: [email protected]
Thanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.
TikTok | Instagram | YouTube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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The Rugby Championship closes with two close contests — the Wallabies fell short against the All Blacks in a soggy Perth, while the Springboks ground past an energised Argentina at Twickenham to claim the title.
David Pembroke and Ewen McKenzie examine the defining moments from both matches, exploring where the Wallabies fell short, how New Zealand is evolving, and why South Africa’s power game still reigns supreme. With Eddie Jones in Japan preparing for the upcoming clash with Australia, the duo go deep on selections, scrums, and the growing influence of yellow cards shaping results.
Also in this episode:
Brave Wallabies but familiar frustrationsAll Blacks’ next-gen talent — Tupaea, Carter, HollandSpringboks’ set-piece dominance v ArgentinaYellow cards and refereeing consistencyEngland’s post–World Cup women’s rugby planR360 — why it threatens rugby’s unityPLUS: How to rebuild global connection through storytelling, transparency, and fan engagement.
Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | Substack
One sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.
📧 Get in touch: [email protected]
Thanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.
TikTok | Instagram | YouTube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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The compelling 2025 Rugby Championship reaches its conclusion this weekend.
In this week’s episode of Rugby Unity, host David Pembroke is joined by Eddie Jones and Ewen McKenzie to unpack the headline battles, refereeing controversies, and what it all means for the future of the game.
Eddie weighs in on Sasha Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s rise, presents a new idea for World Rugby to take control of the referees in a centralised model and whether Australia’s “one-pass rugby” can evolve into a consistent winning style. Ewen shares his views on the Wallabies’ changes, Will Skelton’s influence, and why he’s tipping Australia to edge the All Blacks at Optus Stadium.
Also in this episode:
Springboks v Argentina at Twickenham — South Africa look unstoppableThe return of Will Skelton and his leadership on and off the fieldRefereeing reform — should World Rugby control the top 16 referees?The growth of Rugby in Japan and can Eddie Jones’ spring a surprise when his team takes on the Wallabies in Tokyo in late October.R360: is it a disruption or distraction for the world of rugby?PLUS: Why depth, pathways, and global growth (Spain, Portugal, Japan) will decide rugby’s long-term prosperity.
Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | Substack
One sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.
📧 Get in touch: [email protected]
Thanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.
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England are deserved 2025 Women’s Rugby World Champions.
The Red Roses claimed the title with a commanding 33–13 win over Canada in front of a world record 81,885 fans at Twickenham. But it was more than a victory —England set a new standard for the Women’s game.
In this episode of Rugby Unity, host David Pembroke and co-host Bella McKenzie unpack the final, reflect on the stars of the tournament and discuss “where to from here”?. From Hannah Botterman’s dominance in tight to Zoe Harrison’s ruthlessly efficient kicking game, England put Canada in the hurt locker and threw away the key. With the premier domestic Women’s Rugby competition set to recommence in England in late October, the question now is how do Canada, France, the Wallaroos, South Africa, the Black Ferns and others run down Red Roses?
Also in this episode:
England v Canada — How defence won the World CupZoe Harrison, Hannah Botterman & Sophie de Goede - standout performersBlack Ferns beat France in the bronze medal matchRecord-breaking crowds, TV audiences & social media statsThe first-ever Rugby Unity Content Creators Cup winner revealedWhat’s next: Domestic leagues, Super Rugby & the new World XV competition.PLUS: Why keeping fans engaged between tournaments is the key to rugby’s future growth.
Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | Substack
One sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.
📧 Get in touch: [email protected]
Thanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.
TikTok | Instagram | YouTube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Another massive weekend of rugby. Host David Pembroke is joined by Eddie Jones and Ewen McKenzie to unpack the Wallabies’ fight at Eden Park, the Springboks’ demolition of Argentina, and England’s Red Roses securing the Women’s Rugby World Cup in front of 81,000 fans.
From referee controversies to record-breaking performances, the trio explore the matches, the players, and the off-field governance challenges that will shape rugby’s future.
Also in this episode:
All Blacks v Wallabies — Eden Park fortress holds firmRefereeing inconsistency, TMO debates, and solutions for the gameSpringboks v Argentina — Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s 37-point masterclassEngland’s Red Roses v Canada — Defence wins the World Cup finalThe rise of women’s rugby and global fan engagementRugby governance, financial models, and the risks of relying just on World Cups for revenue.PLUS: insights on resilience, player pathways, and why depth and commercial reform will decide rugby’s future prosperity.
Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | Substack
One sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.
📧 Get in touch: [email protected]
Thanks to Eleven labs for providing a grant to Rugby Unity so that we can use their world leading software.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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The Rugby Championship is back — and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
In this episode of Rugby Unity, David Pembroke is joined by Eddie Jones and Ewen McKenzie to unpack the Wallabies’ clash with the All Blacks at Eden Park. Both teams are unsettled, the weather’s turning ugly, and history looms large — will Australia finally break their 23-year drought at the home of New Zealand rugby?
But that’s not all. The panel turns its focus to South Africa v Argentina in Durban, a clash set to light up the Rugby Championship as well as the Women’s Rugby World Cup Final where England take on Canada in a battle for global supremacy. Add in debates over refereeing, the rise of the box kick, and World Rugby’s unusual decision to delay by 4 months the public release of its much-anticipated strategic plan, this episode covers the full spectrum of the game.
Also in this episode:
Wallabies v All Blacks — lineouts, breakdowns, and predictionsSpringboks v Argentina — Durban showdownEngland v Canada — Women’s World Cup Final previewMark Nawaqanitawase’s return to rugby unionSamoa’s decline and the Pacific Islands dilemmaWhy the box kick became rugby’s go-to weaponPLUS: World Rugby’s strategy, tech lessons from tennis and baseball, and early whispers about the 2035 Rugby World Cup bids.
Eddie is on the road this week — we apologise for the poor audio in the first 25 minutes of the episode.
Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | Substack
One sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity.
Get in touch: [email protected]
TikTok | Instagram | YouTube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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