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 changes mean for the All Blacks and what fans can expect when they take the field this weekend.

LISTEN ABOVE

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?&nbsp;
The boys also look ahead to the second test of 2026, discussing what the changes mean for the All Blacks and what fans can expect when they take the field this weekend.
LISTEN ABOVE

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.

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.

Every week, Rugby Direct gives you the lowdown on all you need to know from the rugby world. Powered by Newstalk ZB and iHeartRadio

Rugby Direct

Rugby Direct Episode 242: Five changes and a fresh look ABs

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/8c4ae91d-b92d-4a86-a616-b48200949a17/transcript

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 followed, the support that helped him through, and the perspective he has gained from the experience. 

He also reflects on his return to professional rugby, his journey back to the Blues, and living with a terminal cancer diagnosis.

LISTEN ABOVE

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 followed, the support that helped him through, and the perspective he has gained from the experience.&nbsp;
He also reflects on his return to professional rugby, his journey back to the Blues, and living with a terminal cancer diagnosis.
LISTEN ABOVE

Rugby Direct Episode 246: Cameron Suafoa on rugby, life and his terminal cancer diagnosis

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/eee49142-b5c5-4ad1-88f7-b48f011b8a12/transcript

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 the key performances, talking points, and big takeaways from the series.

They also look ahead to the next major milestone on the road to South Africa, analysing what changes Dave Rennie could make when he names his 44-man squad on Monday. Who’s played their way in, who’s under pressure, and what does the next chapter of the All Blacks’ campaign look like? It’s all covered on the latest episode of Rugby Direct.

LISTEN ABOVE

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 the key performances, talking points, and big takeaways from the series.
They also look ahead to the next major milestone on the road to South Africa, analysing what changes Dave Rennie could make when he names his 44-man squad on Monday. Who’s played their way in, who’s under pressure, and what does the next chapter of the All Blacks’ campaign look like? It’s all covered on the latest episode of Rugby Direct.
LISTEN ABOVE

Rugby Direct Episode 245: Ireland Beaten, South Africa Beckons

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/86182e44-47ea-46a5-81c2-b48d00197478/transcript

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 been made? Who are the big winners and losers from selection? 

LISTEN ABOVE

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 been made? Who are the big winners and losers from selection?&nbsp;
LISTEN ABOVE

Rugby Direct Episode 244: The team is in - Rennie’s big calls

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/f633a1e1-fae5-483c-9dbe-b489008df21b/transcript

Rugby Direct Episode 242: Five changes and a fresh look ABs

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