Rugby Unity

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Hosted by Eddie Jones, Ewen McKenzie, and David Pembroke, Rugby Unity is the global rugby podcast that tackles the game’s biggest issues — on and off the field. This is where strong opinions meet smart analysis. Eddie Jones and Ewen McKenzie bring decades of international coaching experience at the very top level, while David Pembroke draws on 35 years as a rugby journalist and strategist. Together, they cut through the noise with insights you won’t hear anywhere else. Rugby Unity is more than a podcast. It’s a community of fans, players, coaches, and leaders committed to securing rugby’s future prosperity worldwide. One sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity. Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.au Have your question answered on the show: Rugby Unity Survey Get FREE exclusive content: Substack Dive into the world of rugby: YouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Facebook   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 3 DAYS AGO

    Can Scotland beat France? Dave Rennie's Appointment + Italy v England & Ireland v Wales

    Dave Rennie is confirmed as the new All Blacks coach, and Eddie Jones and Ewen McKenzie break down what it means, right now, with two years to a World Cup. David Pembroke digs into whether the All Blacks actually change style, what happens at 9 and 10, and why Rennie’s lack of attachment to any Super Rugby franchise could light a fire under selection pressure. There’s also a big Rugby World Cup 2027 ticketing update: 750,000 tickets sold in the initial pre-sale, with huge demand for Australia v New Zealand and knockout matches, plus the next application phase opening 19th of May. Then it’s straight into the Guinness Six Nations restart: Ireland v Wales at the Aviva, Scotland v France at Murrayfield with Angus Gardner in the middle, and Italy v England in Rome after Borthwick’s sweeping changes. Also in this episode: ● Dave Rennie named new All Blacks coach ● What changes in All Blacks style under Rennie? ● Roigard, Barrett, Mo’unga selection pressure discussed ● Brodie Retallick’s form in Japan highlighted heavily ● Rugby World Cup 2027 tickets: 750,000 sold fast ● Six Nations previews: Ireland v Wales, Scotland v France, Italy v England PLUS: The panel debates World Rugby priorities, domestic competition sustainability, and what “hard decisions” really mean in coaching selections. Ask Eddie Jones and Ewen McKenzie anything! Fill out the form below 👇 https://tinyurl.com/rugbyunityquestions 👈👈 👉 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   📧 Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.au 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.

    1h 6m
  2. 26/09/2025

    Wallabies v All Blacks clash + World Cup final drama

    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: info@rugbyunity.com.au TikTok | Instagram | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 13m
  3. Canada v England – Women’s Rugby World Cup Final!

    24/09/2025

    Canada v England – Women’s Rugby World Cup Final!

    England v Canada – the Women’s Rugby World Cup Final is here. England have won 62 of their last 63 Tests and arrive at Twickenham as overwhelming favourites. But Canada’s fearless run, capped by a stunning semifinal demolition of New Zealand has made them a team to watch and a team to fear. In this episode, David Pembroke and Wallaroo Bella McKenzie take your inside the World Cup Final. From tactical battles to pressure moments, they reveal how this final will come down to discipline, set-piece execution and the match turning brilliance of players like Sophie de Goede, Hannah Botterman, and Ellie Kildunne. Also in this episode: Canada’s rise under coach Kevin Rouet – genius or just great timing?England’s set-piece dominance vs Canada’s pick and go threat?Key matchups: Mo Hunt v Claire Pelletier at scrumhalfThe battle of the Back three: Ellie Kildunne against Canada’s sevens-inspired attackPredictions and scorelines – Can Canada really pull it off?Third-place playoff preview: New Zealand v France PLUS: refereeing milestones, the rise of women’s rugby commentators, and why the 2029 World Cup in Australia will be the biggest yet. 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: info@rugbyunity.com.au  TikTok | Instagram | YouTube 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.

    49 min
  4. 22/09/2025

    Fiji beat Japan, Canada stun NZ and Bledisloe build-up

    The Bledisloe Cup is back —the Wallabies face the All Blacks at Eden Park. David Pembroke and Ewen McKenzie break down the key selections: Jake Gordon returns, Nick White retires, Bobby Valetini is out, while the All Blacks welcome back Cam Roigard, Caleb Clarke and Cody Taylor. Can Australia end the hoodoo? But that’s only part of the program. From Fiji’s Pacific Nations Cup triumph to Canada’s impressive win over New Zealand in the Women’s Rugby World Cup, the episode spans globe — with plenty of opinions on refereeing, media access, and growth of the game in South America. Also in this episode: Eddie Jones in Europe — why scouting tours set teams up for successPacific Nations Cup — Fiji’s turnover tries sink JapanReferee controversies — yellow card consistency questioned ... again.Samoa v Chile — World Cup qualifier set for a 24,000 sell-out in Chile.Super Rugby Americas — Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, Brazil, Paraguay uniteWomen’s Rugby World Cup — Canada v England final at Twickenham PLUS: Why rugby’s financial sustainability depends on fan access, media storytelling, and development tours that change lives. Show notes: Rugby Union | NewsNowWant 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 📧 Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.au 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.

    1h 18m
  5. 19/09/2025

    World Cup semis + Pacific Nations Cup decider

    The stage is set for another massive weekend in world rugby. In Bristol, England, New Zealand, Canada and France battle for a place in the Women’s Rugby World Cup Final — while Eddie Jones’ Japan take on Fiji in the Pacific Nations Cup Final in Salt Lake City. David Pembroke is joined by Eddie Jones and Ewen McKenzie for a deep dive into the tactics, pressures, and off-field distractions that shape finals rugby. From ticketing chaos to mental resilience, the team reveal what it really takes to win when there are no second chances. Also in this episode: New Zealand v Canada — can the Black Ferns hold their nerve?France v England — all the pressure on the Red RosesPacific Nations Cup — Japan’s young squad vs Fiji’s power gameThe launch of the World XV Series for women’s rugbyWorld Rugby’s $250m North America investment — opportunity or risk?Age vs pathways — when to bring through the next generation of Springboks PLUS: why rugby must modernise its business model, grow fan engagement, and make the game more attractive for global audiences. 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: info@rugbyunity.com.au 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.

    1h 3m
  6. Rugby World Cup 2025 – inside the making of a global phenomenon

    18/09/2025

    Rugby World Cup 2025 – inside the making of a global phenomenon

    Ever wondered what it takes to stage a World Cup — from sold-out stadiums to making athletes global stars? Behind the record crowds, the roaring fans, and the dramatic matches lies years of bold vision and fearless decisions. Today, host David Pembroke speaks with Sarah Massey, Managing Director of the Women’s Rugby World Cup, about how England 2025 became a once-in-a-generation moment for rugby — and a blueprint for the future of global sport. From sold-out stadiums and a brand-new trophy to an all-female leadership team driving change, Sarah reveals the inside story of how a sporting event can inspire millions, transform communities, and leave a lasting legacy. Also in this episode: Record-breaking ticket sales and attendance milestonesAthletes at the centre — facilities, storytelling, and social media reachDiversity and inclusion at every level of deliveryHow host cities and communities reaped the benefitsThe volunteers, the fans, and the atmosphere that set new standards PLUS: the future of women’s rugby, what the sold-out Twickenham final means for the game, and why this World Cup could change sport forever. 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: info@rugbyunity.com.au  TikTok | Instagram | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    37 min
  7. World Cup Semifinal Showdown!

    17/09/2025

    World Cup Semifinal Showdown!

    The Women’s Rugby World Cup has reached the semifinals — and Rugby Unity is on the pulse. Host David Pembroke is joined by Bella McKenzie to break down all the action: from England’s set-piece dominance and Ireland’s heartbreak, to South Africa pushing New Zealand and Canada powering past the Wallaroos. With record-breaking crowds, global TV audiences, and unforgettable performances, the tournament is surging into its biggest weekend yet. David and Bella go deep on the tactical battles ahead, the off-field controversies shaping the game, and who they believe will rise to the moment in Bristol and beyond. Also in this episode: England v Scotland — why the Red Roses remain unstoppableIreland v France — heartbreak, controversy, and a 12-week banSouth Africa v Black Ferns — innovation meets fitness gapCanada v Wallaroos — Sophie de Goede’s masterclassSemifinal previews — Canada v NZ + England v FranceWallaroos’ coaching and contracts dilemma PLUS: Awards predictions, player pathways, referee insights, and why women’s rugby is poised for its biggest leap forward. 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: info@rugbyunity.com.au  TikTok | Instagram | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    53 min
  8. 16/09/2025

    Springboks v All Blacks shock + Wallabies heartbreak

    The Rugby Championship is reaching boiling point. South Africa just handed New Zealand a record defeat in Auckland, Argentina stunned the Wallabies in Sydney, and Eddie Jones’s Japan now face Fiji in the Pacific Nations Cup final. David Pembroke is joined once again by legendary coaches Eddie Jones and Ewen McKenzie to dissect the biggest matches, tactical turning points, and off-field stories shaping the global game. From Scott Robertson’s pressure in New Zealand to the Wallabies’ consistency issues, it’s a straightforward look at where rugby stands right now. Also in this episode: Springboks 43–10 All Blacks — how Rassie’s selections paid offNew Zealand’s attack under scrutiny — too deep, too predictable?Argentina 28–26 Wallabies — yellow cards, referees, and missed chancesPacific Nations Cup final — Japan v Fiji preview from inside the campWomen’s Rugby World Cup semifinals — record crowds and French growth PLUS: The NFL crossover experiment, player development pathways, and why rugby must learn from global sports to secure its 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: info@rugbyunity.com.au Thanks to Elevenlabs 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.

    1h 4m

About

Hosted by Eddie Jones, Ewen McKenzie, and David Pembroke, Rugby Unity is the global rugby podcast that tackles the game’s biggest issues — on and off the field. This is where strong opinions meet smart analysis. Eddie Jones and Ewen McKenzie bring decades of international coaching experience at the very top level, while David Pembroke draws on 35 years as a rugby journalist and strategist. Together, they cut through the noise with insights you won’t hear anywhere else. Rugby Unity is more than a podcast. It’s a community of fans, players, coaches, and leaders committed to securing rugby’s future prosperity worldwide. One sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity. Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.au Have your question answered on the show: Rugby Unity Survey Get FREE exclusive content: Substack Dive into the world of rugby: YouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Facebook   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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