Rugby Direct Episode 264: All Blacks ring the changes

On the latest Rugby Direct podcast from Cardiff, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier assess the All Blacks side named for Sunday morning’s (NZT) match against Wales. Coach Dave Rennie has made a whopping 10 changes to his side, including first test starts for Anton Segner and Fehi Fineanganofo – what do they need to do this week to force their way into the starting side on a more regular basis? They also discuss the other selections including the captaincy being handed to Beauden Barrett for the first time at test level. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest Rugby Direct podcast from the United Kingdom, the All Blacks have launched their end-of-year tour in style with a convincing win over Scotland. What did we learn from the performance, and how does it set them up for the challenges ahead? With Wales next on the agenda this weekend, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down the key talking points, standout performers and what to expect from the rest of the tour. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the latest Rugby Direct from Edinburgh, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down Dave Rennie’s team set to face Scotland as the All Blacks chase Nations Championship glory. The pair analyse the key selection calls, discuss where the match could be won and lost, and assess what's at stake in a pivotal test.   LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The All Blacks squad for the end-of-year tour has been named, and the selection debate is already heating up.   On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier break down the winners and losers from the squad announcement, debating who’s fortunate to be on the plane and who can count themselves unlucky to miss out.   They also discuss the significance of the northern tour for first-year All Blacks coach Dave Rennie, with a demanding schedule set to provide a major test of his tenure so far.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier join us from Sydney after the All Blacks' commanding victory over Australia, highlighted by a devastating first-half blitz at Accor Stadium. With the Bledisloe Cup campaign complete, what did we learn from the final two tests across the Tasman? And with the end-of-year tour looming, just how prepared are Dave Rennie's side for the next tour?  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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, what they reveal about the All Blacks' direction, and whether Rennie has gone far enough ahead of another crucial clash with the Wallabies.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 behind the victory? Which players stood out? And what changes, if any, should Dave Rennie make ahead of the second test?  The boys debate all the big talking points from the opening clash and look ahead to what's next for the All Blacks. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Australia, debating the key selection calls and where the pressure points lie heading into Saturday night. With the Wallabies showing signs of resurgence, they also tackle the big question: are the All Blacks there for the taking, or will New Zealand remind Australia who's boss when the Bledisloe Cup kicks off? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 poised to spoil the party? The podcast also dives into one of the biggest Super Rugby moves in recent memory, with Ardie Savea confirming he will join the Blues for the 2027 season. What does the blockbuster switch mean for the Blues, and the future landscape of New Zealand rugby? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 calls facing the All Blacks.  The pair also discuss the returns of Scott Barrett and Shannon Frizell, Leicester Fainga’anuku’s omission, Codie Taylor’s appointment as captain, and the All Blacks’ continuing problems under the high ball.  Plus, after beating South Africa in Perth, can the Wallabies carry that confidence into Eden Park and threaten New Zealand’s long unbeaten record at the venue?  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.