The Welsh Rugby Podcast

Ben James and Steffan Thomas sit down to discuss the Welsh Rugby Union's plans to cut from four teams to three and how that will affect Steve Tandy's first autumn in charge. EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼  Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben James and MailOnline rugby writer Alex Bywater sit down to discuss Wales' autumn squad announcement - including the recall of Rhys Carre. EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/welshrugby Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben James and Steffan Thomas sit down to discuss the Scarlets' crisis, Cardiff's possible new investors and Steve Tandy's possible first Wales squad. EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/welshrugby Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dave Reddin, the Welsh Rugby Union's Director of Rugby and Elite Performance, shares insights on the recent consultation process and future strategies for Welsh rugby. He emphasizes the importance of player feedback while balancing it with broader decision-making. Reddin discusses the complex relationship with the URC, potential ties with the English Premiership, and the idea of phased changes rather than an overhaul. He also highlights the long road to restoring Welsh international competitiveness and the importance of a national training campus.

Ben James and Steffan Thomas discuss the opening weekend of the new season, as well as the end of the WRU's consultation process Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Steffan dive into the start of the United Rugby Championship season, tackling off-field uncertainties that might overshadow the action. They discuss the impact of Matt Sherratt's sudden move to the national team and Cardiff's coaching gap. The hosts also weigh in on the potential restructuring of regional teams and the financial dilemmas facing the union. Looking ahead, they assess the playoff aspirations of Cardiff, Scarlets, Dragons, and Ospreys while managing expectations for the new Wales coaching regime.

Ben James and Steffan Thomas delve into the ongoing controversy over Welsh rugby's future. They unpack the latest pushback against a proposed two-team model, highlighting player concerns and the threats of potential strike actions. Discussions focus on the implications for player retention and the looming loss of talent. The podcast also addresses the financial challenges and performance impacts of transitioning to this model, alongside a spotlight on the evolving landscape of women's rugby and the necessary investments for success.

Ben James and Steffan Thomas discuss the WRU's 'optimal system' that could see four professional clubs reduced to two, as well as hearing from WRU director of rugby and elite performance Dave Reddin about the plans. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben James and Steffan Thomas discuss the classic second Test between the British and Irish Lions and Australia, including the Jac Morgan clearout in the dying seconds that continues to attract headlines. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben James and Steffan Thomas react to the news that Jac Morgan is in the Lions' squad for the second Test against the Wallabies, as well as the news that Steve Tandy is the new Wales coach. While in Melbourne, Ben also speaks to WRU CEO Abi Tierney. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices