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.
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.
Join David Pembroke for the second part of this instalment with Rahul Bose, the president of Rugby India. Discover how the Rugby Premier League was built from an audacious seven-year vision into a thrilling reality — featuring intense matches, star power, innovative formats, and inspiring stories of Indian talent. Find out how this league is transforming Indian rugby, captivating fans, attracting sponsors, and setting the stage for a future where India aims for Brisbane 2032 and beyond.
PLUS: grassroots growth, story-driven engagement, and the strategic vision propelling Indian rugby onto the world stage.
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.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
India’s rugby scene is evolving at a remarkable pace: from 322 districts playing the sport, up to 120,000 players, and a growing women’s sevens team ranked sixth in Asia, to the ambitious launch of the Rugby Premier League aiming for Olympic qualification. Can Rahul Bose steer this transformation—building grassroots pathways from rural fields to Olympic pools?
Join David Pembroke as he sits down with Rahul Bose, President of Rugby India, to unpack the nation's bold plans in this two-part episode: how rural grit and poverty-driven players are shaping a new rugby ethos, the critical role of infrastructure and coaching, and the strategic push to get India into Brisbane 2032. Discover why rugby’s unique physicality, cultural independence from cricket, and a new league might just accelerate India’s journey into the Olympic spotlight.
PLUS: how grassroots talent, innovative league formats, and government partnerships could transform India into a rugby powerhouse.
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.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
David Pembroke sits down with World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson to explore the off-the-field strategies shaping the future of rugby. From the sport's financial dependence on the Rugby World Cup to the explosive rise of women’s rugby and the strategic push into North and South America, this deep dive uncovers how long-term investments and global plans are redefining the game. Discover how World Rugby is balancing tradition with innovation, from the Olympics to new competition models, all aimed at securing the sport’s prosperity through 2031 and beyond.
• The economic impact of the Rugby World Cup — can it sustain the sport?
• Growing the women's game — a new era for inclusivity and global reach
• Sevens as a strategic growth engine — Olympic ambitions and Nordic expansion
• Major plans for North and South America — Argentina, Chile, and the US in focus
• The future competition landscape — Nation's Cup, World Cup scheduling, and international fixtures
PLUS: the Olympic sevens revival, strategic investment shifts, and the quest for year-round revenue streams.
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.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Host David Pembroke sits down with world rugby insiders Brett Robinson, Chair of World Rugby, and legendary coach Eddie Jones to confront the game’s toughest challenges. From on-field law debates, TMO uproar, and safety dilemmas, to the behind-the-scenes battle for growth and global strategy—rugby is at a pivotal crossroads. Will the upcoming independent review, new competitions, and tactical tweaks form the blueprint for a more exciting, safer, and commercially viable future?
Join us as we unpack a year of high stakes; the pursuit of innovation, inclusion, and integrity amid the chaos of international rugby. With insights straight from the frontlines, this is part one of a deep dive into how the sport is evolving on and off the field—setting the stage for the game’s next chapter.
PLUS: the future of rugby’s big tournaments, expanding into new markets, and safeguarding players in a contact sport.
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.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Eddie Jones sits down with David Pembroke on the ground to unpack the weekend in Japan’s League One: Suntory v Ricoh with Sam Cane and TJ Perenara, Warner Dearns' move to the Hurricanes, Michael Leitch's relentless standards, a revealing coffee with Jesse Kriel, Richie Mo'unga's influence, Cheslin Kolbe's electric form, World Rugby's need for faster decisions and why Australia must recommit to long-term development as Joe Schmidt departs.
· Rustling crowds at Japan's League One — record attendances and growing domestic interest
· Eddie Jones on Japan's rugby boom, top players like Jesse Kriel and Cheslin Kolbe, and the Springboks’ winning mindset
· Discussions on World Rugby's decision-making pace, calendar alignment, and law reforms
· The decline of Australian rugby and the importance of long-term development strategies
· Exclusive insights on coaching, player pathways, and the international game
PLUS: record-breaking crowds, the influence of top players like Jesse Kriel and Cheslin Kolbe, and why the culture of excellence is transforming world rugby.
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.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Rugby Unity, host David Pembroke is joined by rugby legends Ewen McKenzie and Eddie Jones to unravel the chaos surrounding the 2027 Rugby World Cup draw. With controversy swirling over quarterfinal matchups, player safety, and team seedings, they break down the real story behind the brackets, travel logistics, and the rising dark horses like Zimbabwe and Argentina. Plus, catch insights on Rassie Erasmus’s long-term South African tenure, Eben Etzebeth’s suspension, and the evolving landscape of European rugby — all set against the backdrop of global rugby’s future. Whether it's strategic predictions, coaching philosophies, or behind-the-scenes politics, this is the edge-of-your-seat discussion every rugby fan needs.
Also in this episode:
- World Cup draw controversy: South Africa vs. All Blacks in quarterfinals?
- The future of seedings versus bandings in World Cup draws
- Rassie Erasmus’s long South African contract: what it means
- Eben Etzebeth’s suspension and its impact
- Zimbabwe’s surprising potential at 2027 Rugby World Cup
- Travel challenges and tournament logistics in Australia
- European Cup struggles: player availability and competition quality
PLUS: emerging dark horses, coaching secrets, the impact of travel on strategy, and what the future holds for global rugby.
👉 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.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The 2027 Rugby World Cup draw has sent ripples through the rugby community, with top-tier teams and emerging nations locked in a fierce contest for knockout glory. From Pool A's blockbuster Australia vs. New Zealand opener to the drama of potential upsets in Pools B and C, this episode unpacks the tactical battles, referee influences, and the strategic play for third-place thrillers. David Pembroke, Ewen McKenzie, and special guest Eddie Jones analyze every angle of this epic tournament—who'll survive the storm, and who will rise to claim rugby's ultimate prize?
In this bold, energetic episode, we dive into the implications of the expanded field, the importance of match scheduling, and the underdog stories that could shake the foundations of rugby’s world order. Ready yourself for cutting-edge insights, key match predictions, and the passion that only the Rugby World Cup can inspire.
• Why the New Zealand v Australia opener could define the whole tournament
• The hidden tactical battle for third-place qualification in every pool
• Eddie Jones’ early blueprint for Japan’s clash with France
• Fiji’s rise and which emerging nation has the highest World Cup ceiling
• The Six Nations mindset vs World Cup mindset — who it helps and hurts
• England, Wales and Tonga: the Pool F power struggle
PLUS: record-breaking crowds, global growth of rugby, and the future of fan engagement in the sport
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.
The Rugby World Cup is changing — and the stakes have never been higher.
This week, David Pembroke is joined by Eddie Jones and Ewen McKenzie to unpack a huge weekend in world rugby: South Africa’s demolition of Wales, the Etzebeth eye-gouge incident, and the breaking news that R360 has been pushed back to 2028.
Eddie and Ewen give a candid, insider view on Wales’ deep structural problems, how South Africa keep winning with ruthless simplicity, and why the new 24-team World Cup with a Round of 16 will create a more intense, more tactical tournament than ever before.
They also reflect on their own World Cup journeys — from the 1987 and 1991 memories to the 2003 classic, England 2019, the Brighton Miracle, and the pressure only a World Cup can create.
Also in this episode
• South Africa v Wales — dominance, discipline and what really happened
• Why Wales’ development system is failing — and how to fix it
• R360 delayed: player managers, contracts, and the talent drain
• The brutal logic of a 33-man World Cup squad
• How selection balance will change in 2027 (props, hookers, utilities)
• Australia’s path to winning back casual fans in 2027
PLUS: venue breakdowns, squad-build strategy, player load, and how the new compressed 43-day World Cup will change everything.
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.
The November window delivered answers, questions and warnings. In this episode, David Pembroke is joined by Eddie Jones to dissect the Wallabies’ 2025 prospects, the rise of England, France’s stalled progress, and the tactical shifts redefining Test rugby. Eddie breaks down how Australia’s season unfolded, why depth remains the core issue, what Les Kiss will bring as head coach, and how selection, pathways and politics still shape the national side. The pair also examine the November Series, from South Africa’s dominance to Scotland’s slump, England’s revival, and France’s uncertain identity. They close by looking at officiating, global fan engagement, sevens, finances, the Nations Championship, and what the upcoming Rugby World Cup draw means for 2027 preparations.
Also in this episode
• Wallabies’ highs, lows and the 2025 rebuild
• France, England, Scotland — where each nation stands after November
• The tactical evolution of Test rugby (scrums, kicking, power plays)
• Pathways, depth and long-term sustainability of global rugby
• Sevens, money games and the future economic model of the sport
PLUS: Why fan engagement, transparency and global competitions will determine rugby’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: 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.
The Wallabies stand at a crossroads — and with a home Rugby World Cup approaching in 2027, the stakes have never been higher. In this episode, David Pembroke and former Wallabies coach Ewen McKenzie take a clear-eyed look at where Australia really sits in the world game.
From the selection volatility of 2024–25 to the strengths and weaknesses in each positional group, Ewen explains the structural changes needed for the Wallabies to compete with South Africa, England, Ireland and a fast-improving northern hemisphere. He also unpacks what Les Kiss will bring as national coach and why Australia must build a game plan that can survive high-ball pressure, tactical variety, and tournament intensity.
David and Ewen then broaden the lens — analysing England’s off-field rise, South Africa’s sustained dominance, rugby’s financial realities, and the global opportunities emerging through the new World Rugby Nations Cup and revamped sevens calendar.
Also in this episode
· Why consistency in selection still separates good teams from great ones
· What Les Kiss must prioritise from day one as Wallabies coach
· England’s new personality-driven approach to communication
· How social media is reshaping rugby’s global fanbase
· Australia’s pathway to success at a home World Cup
· The growing importance of emerging nations and expanded competitions
PLUS: insights on squad costs, leadership expectations, sevens pathways, and why world rugby must communicate in real time to stay relevant.
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.
The red/yellow card crisis and the terminal TMO delays intervened with another huge weekend of international rugby —this episode goes deep into the consequences. David Pembroke is joined by Ewen McKenzie and Eddie Jones to unpack Ireland v South Africa, the match that sparked global outrage and renewed calls for World Rugby to overhaul officiating and TMO protocols.
Eddie details Japan’s gritty 25–23 win over Georgia in Tbilisi, shedding light on set-piece growth, discipline under pressure, and what he’s learned from a demanding 2025 campaign. Ewen breaks down New Zealand’s inconsistent year, the cultural shift inside the All Blacks, and why the top three Northern Hemisphere teams — Ireland, France, England — are on a collision course in the 2026 Six Nations.
A fast, honest, and global roundup of the game’s biggest stories.
Japan vs Georgia highlights: www.youtube.com/watch?v=TqOYh45d2pU
Also in this episode
• South Africa’s season: power, depth and why they’re still the benchmark
• Ireland’s early-season resilience and their road to 2027
• Why red cards are distorting Test matches — and the fix Eddie wants
• Japan’s finishing, support play and next steps toward the World Cup
• England v Argentina analysed — are both teams top-four threats?
• Italy rising & Chile’s impressive performance against the Azzurri
PLUS: Record-breaking forward play, the modern coaching workload, player data obsession, and questions from the Rugby Unity Third Voice community.
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.
Red-card chaos, judicial backflips, and one of the biggest Autumn Nations weekends of the year — this episode has everything.
David Pembroke, Eddie Jones and Ewen McKenzie open with the fallout from Franco Mostert’s and Harry Hockings’ overturned red cards, and what the mess reveals about World Rugby’s decision-making. Eddie explains the real-world disruption caused by mid-week hearings, the strain on staff, and why coaching preparation gets derailed.
From there, the team dives into a stacked global fixture list: Wales v New Zealand, Ireland v South Africa, France v Australia, England v Argentina, Scotland v Tonga, Italy v Chile and more. Ewen breaks down tactical matchups across the board — from aerial contests to set-piece pressure — while Eddie reflects on Japan’s preparation ahead of their crucial test against Georgia.
The Third Voice returns with listener questions on coaching futures, simplifying the laws, and the rise of Japan and Fiji in the new Nations Championship.
Also in this episode
• Wales v New Zealand — pressure on Robertson and a refreshed XV
• Ireland v South Africa — Prendergast, Hansen, Etzebeth and a true heavyweight clash
• France v Australia — Gordon returns as the Wallabies face a lethal French back three
• England v Argentina — Borthwick’s rotation v Los Pumas’ quiet momentum
• Italy v Chile — rising nations and World Cup pathways
• Player of the Year + breakthrough player nominees for 2024
PLUS: Why governance needs an overhaul, the rise of kicking-based attacking strategies, audience shoutouts, Japan’s tour insights, and positive financial news across major unions.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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: 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.
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:
PLUS: 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: 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.
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:
PLUS: Why community rugby must be protected to grow the global 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: 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.