Women's Rugby Pod

WRP 166 - All round the world. This week Sadia Kabeya alongside Johnnie have lots to catch up on; as there is news from around the world!! The English league, The PWR, completed round 3 at the weekend, with wins for Saracens, Loughborough Lightening and reigning champions Gloucester-Hartpury, the games, tactics and key players are discussed. There is chat about the world of 7s, with the shiny new world series started up again in Dubai, with a big win for Australia, break NZ history! Results from Ireland, France as their leagues continue. There is also historic news with Croatia and Bulgaria, Spain make a big announcement, Tunisia win again, details of the revamped Celtic Championship for tIreland, Wales and Scotland and news from New Zealand with an expanded Super Rugby Aupiki. Round 4 of The PWR - with fascinating fixtures - is analysed with Sadia's predictions......who wins out of the bottom 2 newbies, Ealing or Leicester?!? #WRP [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 165 - Shark bite! After another intriguing round of PWR (Premiership Women's Rugby) here in England, where the standout results was Sale beating Harlequins, the 2021 champions, for the first time. Sadia and Johnnie reflect on that with England U20s and Sale hooker Niamh Swailes. The Shark takes us inside the Sale Sharks' camp; how and where they beat Quins, how the season is going so far, the new signings and more. But also the journey, as short as it is, that Sale have been on and their ambitions for this season and beyond. Niamh also chats about her own journey as a young up-and-coming hooker. All the rest of the round 2 games are reviewed, Exeter, Gloucester-Hartpury, Saracens all with wins. There is news from around the world including Brasil and results from Ireland and France. Plus an in-depth preview of round three of the PWR; Bristol v Gloucester-Hartpury, Quins v Saracens, Sale v Exeter and Sadia's thoughts of her team, Loughborough Lightening's derby (the first one!) between them and Leicester. #WRP [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 164 - Scottish Tiger. Scottish international Eva Donaldson joins us this week in a short pod (Johnnie has man-flu!!!!!). The rising star in the navy blue of Scotland reflects on a whirlwind 24 months, making her debut, playing in wXV and now starting a new club making their debut in a new competition! Eva chats about all of it, including the game last weekend with Leicester Tigers, at Welford Road; the historic match and the atmosphere at the iconic ground. There is news from all around the world; Brazil, Ireland, France have their league, Elite 1, back underway, new Celtic comp and some reflection on the news coming from the WRU and SRU. #WRP [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 163 - Packer & PWR. Power-packed pod, with the return of Sunter, CEO of the best league in the world and the world's best player! The most capped English player is back to host with Johnnie, chatting about her unexpected role in the Red Roses coaching set up, wXV1 and being back out in New Zealand. And there is real honesty from Sunter about the challenges she has faced going straight from being a player to a coach, "comfortable with feeling uncomfortable!" World Rugby's Player of the Year, Marlie Packer, join us on the pod as well; recounting tales of winning the inaugural wXV 1. She also speaks, personally, about the prestigious award, her captaincy and the hug she got upon her return home! With the top league in England, the PWR, now independent, rebranded and a game-changing television deal to boot, starting this weekend, no better time to chat to CEO Belinda Moore. She tells us about the work that has gone in, the process, the challenges and the vision for this historic weekend and beyond. #WRP [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 162 - wXV 1 champ Maud Muir. Sadia Kabeya hosts the pod again this week, with Johnnie and they are joined by Red Roses star Maud Muir; who also happens to be one of Sadia's best friends! The Red Roses pair chat about England defeating New Zealand on their home patch to be crowned the inaugural wXV 1 champions. and if this victory gives some redemption for the World Cup final loss just a year ago. The overall thoughts and impact on wXV as a whole (well three tournaments...) is discussed. And the two friends throw bouquets at each other! Australia finished off their campaign beating Wales with only 14 players for half the match; Sadia gives her thoughts on were The Wallaroos are and how far they've come. And the third game of the weekend, France Canada, is unpicked as well as the advantages and disadvantages the teams will take from the shores of New Zealand. There's some news as well, with a new USA coach and tv news from England's PWR.#WRP [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 161 - wXV comes to a climax. Another huge week for the Women's game at wXV. Scotland were crowned champions of wXV 2, Emma Wassell joins us - expressing the happiness & joy within the group, plus what the celebrations were like; as well as a bird's eye view of Sarah Bonar's "length of the field" try!! Ireland picked up their third win of the tournament, beating Spain but only just. Sadia and Johnnie discuss all the final round games from wXV 2 & wXV 3, including that huge win for Australia over France - first time in 13 years. New Zealand bounced back from their loss to France by thumping Wales & now look ahead to England in round 3; Kennedy Simon the co-captain pops in for a chat. Kennedy talks about wXV in the land of the long white cloud, the connection with young fans as well as Black Ferns that have gone before them. Plus the Red Roses at the weekend, a re-run of the 2021 World Cup final, the skipper gives us a sense of the mood in the camp as they prepare for "vengeance!!' All the news from around the world too & shout outs. #WRP [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 160 - Wall to wall wXV. Huge weekend in wXV, the international women's rugby tournaments and we reflect on it all; with co-host Red Rose star Sadia Kabeya. wXV 1 saw history made as France beat New Zealand for the first time ever, England beat Australia and Wales went down to Canada. Talking us through that result and looking ahead to a massive game against The Black Ferns, Kelsey Jones, the Wales hooker drops in for a chat. Kelsey relays the excitement in the camp ahead of the game, their approach and talks about a couple of key players. It was round 2 in wXV 2 and 3 at the weekend with wins for Italy, Scotland, Ireland and Spain, Sadeya runs her eye of these. Plus a huge round 3 and culmination in those two tournaments, Scotland and Italy are fighting it out for the title; Rachel Malcolm's side facing Japan, while the Italians face Kate Zackary and the USA. Ireland and Spain go head to head to win wXV 3 and get promoted, while South Africa and Colombia fight for their existence in wXV. #WRP [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 159 - A new dawn. This week all three wXV (the new global women's rugby competition) tournaments are in action, wXV 1 in New Zealand, wXV 2 in South Africa and wXV 3 in Dubai. We have a a very special co-host this week in Red Rose star Sadia Kabeya. The flanker chats of her injury, the mood of the squad out in New Zealand, selection, competition for places and what she feels she is missing out on most! We reflect on last week's results from wXV 2 and 3, with wins for USA, Spain, Italy and Ireland and look ahead to the first full round of games with wXV 1 rolling into town this week. We also have South Africa captain Babalwa Latsha, an inspirational figure - the first professional female rugby player in Africa; to look back at their opening game against Scotland but also looking ahead to the match versus Italy. Babalwa also speaks of her role as a captain and leader and the huge growth of the sport in South Africa and some of the reasons behind it. The sad news of Worcester Women's demise is reflected upon, as well as all the rest of the news from around the world. #WRP [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 158 - wXV is here! Finally the wXV is here, the new global women's rugby tournament, all kicking off in South Africa and Dubai this weekend. We hear from two of the 6 Nations teams; we hear from Emma Wassell - the Scotland stalwart about her thoughts on the new tournament, how the team is shaping up. But also her return from injury, something very new for her, how she coped mentally and physically and why she couldn't wait to get back to the rugby! We also chat with the new Ireland Head coach, Scott Bemand; only months after leaving his role with the Read Roses. How has that been - to change white for green - the adjustment to being the person in charge - were all spoken about. Scott opens up about the coaching role he took up in the interim and how he is finding a set up that has had it's doubters over the last few years. Do you sing the national anthem when coaching a "foreign" nation...will Scott? Plus, as ever, there is all the news from around the oval world. #WRP @[email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 157 - A horde of rugby! SO much women's rugby on at the moment and as ever The WRP is across it!!! England and Canada are mid series; The Red Roses started their new chapter with a resounding win, can Canada bounce back, we speak to their Captain Fantastic, Sophie De Goede. There's all the news from around the world over the last month or so; Ireland have a new coach, as do USA, who won the Ireland Interpros and did Canterbury win another title down in New Zealand; and where are the games at The 2025 World Cup gong to be held? If that wasn't enough we catch up with the Barbarians squad fresh off the back of victory over South Africa, IN Cape Town as they head to Ireland to play Munster this weekend. We hear from Kate Alder, El Snowsill, Jo Kitlinski and Lindsay Peat; who were all in fine Babas form! #WRP [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 156: Red Roses, soft launch. Another season begins, for us here on the World's first and only podcast exclusively on the women's game of rugby union; it's the start of series 5. Next week will see a full-blown start to new season with chats with The Barbarians, Canada, England, Leinster and Auckland Storm. For now the Red Roses take on Canada in a two test series, both preparing for WXV 1. We were in the England camp, with plenty of fresh faces - players and coaches; and spoke to our very own Sarah Hunter, captain Marlie Packer, back in XVs, Meg Jones, new leader, Rosie Galligan and point to prove, Sarah Beckett. #WRP [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 155 - Queensholm shone!! England has a new name on it's trophy. On the final whistle at "Queensholm" Burf & Johnnie reflect on an incredible final; the game, the players, the atmosphere, the occasion itself. There is immediate reaction from a jubilant winning co-captain, Mo Hunt and flanker Bethan Lewis; both, understandably, full of emotion. And there's reflection from the other side of the coin with Susie Appleby, the Exeter coach, on coming up short in two consecutive finals & the reasons for that. The controversial aspects of the game, such as one of the sides playing at home, plus the colour of the cards in the game are debated. All in all a wonderful & fitting ending to another outstanding Premier XVs final. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 154 - Chiefs at The Circus! We are down to the final two in England, Gloucester-Hartpury - known as the Circus - and Exeter Chiefs. The Premier XV final being played at Kingsholm (the home ground for Gloucester-Hartpury has been turned into "Queensholm," for what promises to be an epic final, in front of a record crowd. Gloucester-Hartpury have topped the table most of the season and came through a tough semi final against Bristol but this is their first ever final, we speak to cherry and white legend, Kelly Smith. The prolific winger, out with an injury, provides a unique prospective, being that little bit removed, on the squad and team, their approach this week, what part she plays in the Circus, the key cogs in the machinery and the boss. But also why this season the club, this season, seems to have found consistently high performances and winning performances. In the blue corner, Poppy Leitch, been at Exeter Chiefs since the beginning and such has been her level of play, she was called into the Red Roses squad earlier this year. The "heartbeat" of this side speaks so eloquently about what makes The Chiefs, The Chiefs, from the early days with electric heater to finals with record crowds. The flanker come second row speaks of the battles, as a team but also as an individual within the final dance and the value she puts on being a finalist before. History beckons for one of them! Plus, as ever, there's all the international news, including European 7s, Fiji squad, WXV venues and Brazil bossing 7s in South America. @podwomensrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 153 - Rocking semis with Rocky! This week Rocky Clark, the Red Rose legend drops in to co-host and their is plenty to chat about!! Last weekend, in England, the Premier XVs finalists were decided and it's Gloucester-Hartpury and Exeter; so there will be a new name on the trophy this season!! They were exceptional games of rugby, they had everything and great occasions too. Rocky gives her thoughts on the two games, pinpointing were the wins were gained, the key tactical battles and the key players in the middle. The 137-capper also gives her prediction for the final! Also on the pod The Red Roses have new "landmark" contracts, these are chatted about as well as her new role, as scrum coach at one of the Premier XVs new clubs, Leicester. There is all the news, as ever, with results from South Africa, European 7s and France, who are the new champions? Over in the US this weekend the Premier Rugby 7s kicks off, 8 women's team, selected by draft and playing over over the west and east coasts, plus a final in Washington. Naya Tapper, USA Eagles 7s star joins us to tell us all about the competition, the excitement that surrounds it and just where rugby is in the country.@podwomensrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 152 - Fab four. Our focus this week is the English domestic league The Premier XVs which sees it's most competitive semi-finals this weekend. On Saturday Gloucester-Hartpury take on Bristol and Sunday sees Saracens travel to Exeter and we spoke to all four of the club's bosses, Sean Lynn, Dave, Ward, Susie Appleby and Alex Austerberry. From Gloucester-Hartpury the chat circulates around "winning" the league but the most important bit being still to come. Sean speaks about his side's strength around the set piece, the opportunity the club has with this home semi and with the final being at Kingsholm too. In the blue corner, Bristol's Dave Ward, outside of the imminent arrival chat (surprise announcement too!), brings up returning players, where he thinks the west country rivals may be out under pressure. From Sunday's semi-final, Exeter are at home, Susie signifies the importance of that in relation to their victory last week but also because of the crowd and maybe because Saracens have never won at Sandy Park! Is there a wiff of revenge in the air, after last season's final defeat? The Champions come into this game in red hot form, winning their last twelve games! Their DoR, Alex Austerberry, mentions that key word "momentum," but also motivation. where that comes from year after after year. Johnnie suggests the Champions have a super strength, involving the mental side of the game and approach, Alex responds, citing just how important that battle will be on Sunday if they are to win in Devon, for the first time. As ever, there is all the news from around the world; huge result with a dramatic finish on Australia's Gold Coast between Fiji and Samoa. Results from South Africa, France and an update on the WXV qualifiers.#WRP [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 151 - Madagascar & Pineapple!!  What a show for you this week!! Over the last few weeks the Rugby Africa Cup has been taking place in Madagascar, for the very first time with Cameroon, Kenya, South Africa and the hosts all trying to qualify for WXV. The scenes of sheer rugby joy coming out of Madagascar and being beamed around the world has been fantastic to see. So (of course) we got the lady who has had a huge influence on delivering this, the Manager of Women's Rugby in Madagascar, Ando Herimahefa joins us on the pod. Ando speaks about the crowds, her pride in what has occurred on the island and how important rugby is to the players and their communities. If that wasn't enough, World Cup winner Vicky Fleetwood announced her retirement from all forms of the game this week; we speak to "Fleeto" about her career in XVs and 7s. She recalls her best moments, most feared opponents, how she started and where her drive has come from for such a long career. We also have all the results and news from around the world, including France, Asia Championship, the Premier XVs and who is coming out on top in the Oceania Rugby Women's championship?! @podwomensrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 150 - The Green & Gold Queen. This week, one of the sport's true "greats" retired from the game in style. A Wallaroo for no less than 13 years, Shannon Parry said goodbye against Fiji at the weekend, so we had to get her on the pod! The legend talks about bowing out, watched on by her family, the match itself but also her emotions around the occasion. We take the gold medal Olympian back to when she started the game, why she started the game; there is also chats about all those World Cups & the Olympics....where does she keep her medal!! And a fascinating personal story of how previous Olympian inspired to the gold. Shannon speaks of the incredible growth she has seen in her 13 years and what legacy she hopes she has left from a personal perspective. There is a full review of round 17 of the Premier XVs, with big significant wins for some of the top four sides. And, as ever, there is all the rest of the news from around the world including Africa Cup (wait til you hear about the crowds!!), Oceania Championship, Elite 1 in France & Asia Rugby Championship.@podwomensrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 149 - So much news! On this week's episode there is plenty of news to catch up on. The Premier XVs, in England, it is the last few rounds of the regular season with some interesting results to review & a packed fixture list this week; Burf & Johnnie discuss who has the best run in, Bristol or Quins, in that race for the fourth spot. New Zealand have dominated the entire season of 7s that came to an end last weekend, why that is is chatted about. Also out in Toulouse who grabbed that Olympic spot, was it Ireland, Fijiana or Great Britain? The Red Roses have a new addition (it's reported) to have a new member of the coaching staff, who is it, what will they bring? Out in Australia a true legend announces her retirement, we reflect on that. There all the rest of the results & news from around the world; France, South Africa, Spain and Fiji. @podwomensrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 148 - Captain to coach. This week we catch up with our very own Sunter & there is plenty to catch up on!!! Weeks after retiring as Red Rose captain, Sarah was appointed as one of the assistant coaches for the national side. Sunter chats about how it came about, what conversations she has had with the head coach, John Mitchell, how those conversations have been; plus her views on the "right person" for the job. We also take a whistle stop tour around the world with all the news; like Greg McWilliams leaving his role as Ireland coach, plus the new bits of infrastructure the IRFU have announced. Australia have named their latest squad, Hong Kong & Netherlands have been in action. The last 7s event of the season is spoken about plus the weekend's round of Premier XVs matches, including Worcester who have a very special day planned. And results from France, Australia & South Africa. @podwomensrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 147 - Coaches, WXV & Team of the tourny!  As the dust settles after an historic 6 Nations, Rachael Burford & Johnnie Hammond - still buzzing from the "occasion" at Twickenham; give their final review. They also pick a WRP 6 Nations "team of the tournament," is it Vernier or Heard, Tremouliere or Aitchison, Packer or Callender? Before that, even more news coming out of women's rugby & as ever The WRP is across it all. The Red Roses new coaching set up, with John Mitchell & our very own Sarah Hunter, is discussed in detail, the characters, the blend. Within that the pair talk about the reduced time Mitchell has with the Red Roses due to his commitments with the Japanese men's team at the World Cup. Some finer detail of WXV have been announced this week, this is spoken about & also the flexibility the women's game needs to have in it's infancy & those that work in it need to recognise that mistakes will be made. There is all the rest of the news from new sponsorship, SA becoming a core 7s team again, Sweden back in action, Exeter double up, fabulous semis from Australia a& what is Ruby Tui's next move.... @podwomensrugby womensrugbypod||@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 146 - It didn't disappoint! Bonus on the whistle pod...Twickenham saw history made for a world record crowd at a women's test match, nearly 60,000 people were there to witness The Red Roses crowned as Grand Slam Champions, in a riveting game. All the WRP team were there (wild horses and all that....) & after the final whistle, Burf & Johnnie sat down to try & put into words just what an extraordinary day it was. The joyous pair try to convey the emotion, excitement, the vibe of Twickenham, which was very different; on the field, the French start to England's sucker punch & dominance that followed to the comeback from the French. Marlie Packer's Mum (Mother of Mama Marlie!) happened to walked by & stopped for a quick chat, expressing the incredible pride & joy she was feeling. The conversation naturally moved to the strides the game has been, which they have all witnessed. Some day for the sport! @podwomensrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 145 - Super Saturday with 50K +An historic game awaits the 50K + supporters (and they all pid for their tickets!) that will travel to Twickenham on Saturday; the first game of Super Saturday, Italy face off against Wales and Scotland host Ireland. As well as looking ahead World Cup winner Rachael Burford and Johnnie Hammond reflect on last weekend, with some fascinating performances and results. The biggest talking point was that victory for Scotland, finally; no better person to speak to than their leader and captain, Rachel Malcolm. The skipper speaks of the sense in the warm up and in the eyes of players; that the long waited victory would be theirs against Italy. How that happen, tactically and the main players involved; the flanker also throws some bouquets to her front row and a couple of 50-cappers! England's win is discussed and just how difficult Ireland made it for the Red Roses, and where Simon Middleton's side will need to improve against France. The other unbeaten side, France dismantled Wales in the opening half out in Grenoble, just why were they so "on it?!" Where will Wales need to brush up, did selection have a say in the result? All this plus news from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Hong Kong, plus those shout outs. Don't forget to book your tickets to the live show Friday 28th April at The Cabbage Patch, Twickenham, doors open at 7:30. Join Sarah Hunter, Rachael Burford and Lenaig Corson. You can find tickets: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/womens-rugby-pod-29691309405@podwomensrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 144 - Round 2...final whistleA quick pod after the final whistle at Franklin's Gardens where England beat Italy 68-5, in the final game of the 6 Nations' second round. Johnnie catches up with co-host Sarah Hunter, after her television appearance but also to chat about the game. What did Sunter make of the Red Roses' performance, how complete it was; what did she make of the back row as a unit plus Zoe Aldcroft at no.8, her shirt just last week! Plus the occasion at the home of Northampton Saints - Franklin's Gardens, where nearly 13,000 saw this latest victory & almost all of them wanted to say hello to the former England after the game! Red Roses captain turned tv star(!) adds a word or two on the other games Scotland v Wales & Ireland v France. Here's also a chat with Abby Dow, who scored an amazing 4 tries, she talks about England's evolving attack & her assessment of game as a whole. The effervescent Italian centre, Beatrice Rigoni ,also stopped by to say hi...or should that be ciao!?! Another podcast, with a full review of all the round 2 6 Nations games out later in the week. #WRP @podwomensrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 143 - 6 Nations chapter 2In the second pod of the week, well it is 6 Nations time, co-host Sarah Hunter is in the chair with Ireland star Anna Caplice to preview the round 2 games; Ireland v France, Wales v Scotland & England v Italy. All but Italy had announced their team, at time of record, the team selections are discussed, as well as tactics, areas to improve on from round 1. Ireland's selection at fly half & what would constitute success for them out of this game, as well as how hamstrung they are are spoken about. Are France a little weaker than of previous year with new players & coaches? Can centre Gabrielle Vernier have the impact she had in round 1. Sunter & Anna also chat about the Welsh Scottish rivalry & the classic it has become; also the battle of the back rows & who will come out on top. Just days ago Sunter was in the line up now analysing the Red Roses team selection, especially in her old position no. 8. Can Italy be a torn in the side of England, as they have proved to be in the past, or do England have too much, even with 20-odd players out? There is clear excitement from these two internationals about round 2 & what it will be bring; can Wales back up, can Scotland turn narrow loses into a win, will we see France spark into life, will Italy challenge England. Plus predictions, with score lines (!), are given & you wouldn't believe who Sunter goes for in the England v Italy game.......@podwomensrugby [email protected] #WRP Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 142 - Round up, round up! For the first pod this week, something slightly different! We take a look back at the opening round of the Women's 6 Nations, where there were victories for England, Wales & France; with respected rugby journalists. Lauren Jenkins, of BBC Wales, & Gary Heatly of GH Media, join to discuss all the twists & turns of the three games. The send off for Sarah Hunter, the sell out crowd, England's attack & power all are spoken about; as well as Scotland's bright periods of the game, how much they are missing key players & ever-rising star Emma Orr is talked about. Could Wales of had a better opening to a new world cup cycle, how much of a smile it put on "Welsh rugby's" face, the blend of the side & the clear benefit of professionalism with Welsh players on contracts; are all topics of discussion. Plus just how big a hole Ireland are in, especially without their 7s players. There are new coaches for France & Italy, Lauren & Gary chat about this & that it is a little early to see many signs, are France slipping a little, did Italy let that one get away and just what effect the conditions had on the game. And there are predictions for the three games in round 2 too!#WRP @podwomensrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 141 - 6 Nations captain special.....including Sunter! YES it's the start of the 6 Nations! Wales v Ireland, England v Scotland and Italy v France, plus the Super Rugby Aupiki finals & the Super W gets underway; so another huge week for women's rugby. We speak to three of the 6 Nations captains, from England, Sarah Hunter appearing in her last ever game of competitive rugby signs out in style in her home town of Newcastle. She will lead the side out for the last time on the occasion of her 141st cap; hear her thoughts on what will be an emotional night. "Sunter" also tells us about this new look England team & what to expect from Scotland lead by her close friend Rachel Malcolm. Speaking of Dr Malcolm, we caught up with her at the 6 Nations launch to chat about where her Scotland side as they enter this new World Cup cycle. Also who to look out for & the joy of playing against her pal "Sunter!" From Italy, we have Giada Franco, the all-action flanker, who is excited about the tournament; from having a new coach, new team mates but also starting their campaign against World Cup bronze-medalists France. Ireland were unable to supply anyone for this pod but they go up against Wales, in Cardiff, Hannah Jones the new skipper was also at the launch. The Welsh star chats about the new contracts, the new faces in the squad & facing the challenge of taking on their Celtic sisters, Ireland. There is all the fixtures news as well, plus shout outs; including a new partnership between the RFU, O2 & The Women's Sport Trust. #WRP [email protected] @podwomensrugby Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 140 - Front row union! This week not one but two members of the front row union; Lana Skeldon, of Scotland & Worcester & Wasps' & Red Rose squad member, Liz Crake. Scotland have just announced their squad for the up coming 6 Nations, of which Lana was, unsurprisingly, selected for. The international front rower chats about coming off the back of the World Cup, the lessons they learnt from it & what they are taking into this new chapter of women's rugby in Scotland. Lana talks about the new faces in the squad & also in the coaching box & you really get a sense a new page has been turned, after what has been a horrible year & a half. The hooker tells us just what it is like to play at Worcester, again through some choppy waters but the future looks bright, especially with Jo Yapp involved! Wasps, as a club, have had a terrible time of it; the women's side will no longer compete in English rugby'd top level next season. Liz speaks of how that has effected the group & herself, how they have managed to turn up every week. Plus the Red Roses training squad member opens up about the raw disappointment of players & staff leaving the club when the troubles started. But there are positives! Liz tell us "how cool" it is to be in England camp, just how many appointments there are & a full low down on the stash!! Plus there's all the news from around the rest of the world, with France & Italy squads, retirements & half centuries as well!!@podwomensrugby #WRP #WRUGBY [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 139 - Tails....every time! Former Wales captain & Sale "acting head coach," Rachel Taylor joins Johnnie on the pod this week. "Tails" talks all things Wales with the 6 Nations squad announcement earlier this week, the balance of the squad, her views on the captain & who are the ones to look out for. The new wave of twenty five contracts are also chatted about & the small but constant steps the WRU seem to be making in the women's game, despite all the doom & gloom around the union. The campaign to push rugby in the north is spoken about from the Sale Sharks Women's point of view & what went on at the weekend but also was this part of the stumbling block in Sale re-entering to the next cycle of Premier XVs rugby? The former back rower chats about the league's results at the weekend with her expert coaches eye; what does she make of Exeter's twelfth bonus point victory of the season & are the champions, Saracens, hitting form just at the right time? Plus there is news & results from around the oval world. #WRP @podwomensrugby. [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 138 - Catch Up! We are back after a mid-season break & are with you now until the end of the season. So this week special guests, Scrum Queens Creator, Ali Donnelly, as well as Red Roses Head Coach Simon Middleton & Head of Women's Rugby in Australia, Jilly Collins; as we have a whistle-stop review of all the news from around the world in the last few weeks. The Lions! A women's tour is feasible, that's the news this week; we discuss: is now the right time, who would they play, fair on the rest of the rugby playing world? Many teams announcing their 6 Nations squad, "Mids" does that for his final time; new names, returning players, big names missing. The state of play in Ireland is spoken about, contracts, coaches, the Interpros, as well as the new Celtic Cup. We also head down to Australia, where last week, they announced contracts for their 15s players, the lady central to making that happen, Jilly Collins, join us. And we review all the coaching movements around the oval world, including Sweden, Italy & France. Plus there are updates from the front line leagues around the globe, there is your shout outs & news of our next live show!#wrp #wrugby @podwomensrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 137 - The Shaunagh Brown Show. Following her retirement from rugby over Christmas, Shaunagh Brown, of Harlequins & England joins us on the pod; to speak about her journey......up until now! A lady with one of the most extraordinary journey to the National team & indeed a World Cup final; Shaunagh has been a gas engineer, deep sea diver, had a professional boxing bout, competed in Highland Games, been to a Commonwealth Games & is Grand Slam winner. Hear "The Hammer" Brown, like never before in a truly personal, open & honest chat with Johnnie Hammond, about it all! The Red Rose continues to be an inspiration to many but to hear the twists & turns, bumps & fast tracks you can not help but be amazed at what Shaunagh has packed into her life so far. It is not just all these achievements that JH asked about but also what is behind the smile & the hair; what got her on the journey, who helped, were there other paths she could have chosen, that post-match interview after the 2021 Premier XVs final. As well as what is in store next........................ A fabulous insight into one of the game's most recent "characters." Enjoy! #WRP @podwoemnsrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 136 - Christmas round-up. Finishing up 2022 with a speedy round up of a load of news from the world of Women's Rugby! Scotland's union awarded 28 contracts last week, we speak to friend of the pod Dr Rachel Malcolm. The Scotland captain gives us a sense of what this milestone means to her and the rest of the team, how it has come about and the differences she believes it will make. In Ireland over the weekend Blackrock College were crowned club champions, Hannah O'Connor, the victorious number 8; takes us through the match and hints at how good the celebrations were!! In England the Premier XVs has restarted at a great pace, none more so than Gloucester-Hartpury, dropping only a single point. Their front rower Kelsey Jones chats about "The Circus," the characters in it - old and new - her budding friendship with Red Rose star Maud Muir! But also why things are clicking on the field and why they've had the start they have. There's all the rest of the news as well, big news too! RFU's announcement on the teams that have secured places in next season's P15s, 8 so far with Leicester and Ealing in and Wasps, Worcester, DMP and Sale out - as it stands. There's results from France, Hong Kong, Cape Town. News of coaching movements, new fixture announcements and retirees. Enjoy and have a very Merry Christmas. #WRP @podwomensrugby Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 135 - Captain Cymru. This week we Siwan Lillicrap joins us, following her announcement, to retire from international rugby. The "50-capper" doesn't look back too far to begin with, by reminiscing about her time in New Zealand at the World Cup. The skipper reflects on the tournament as a whole but also her nation's performances. Then we take the trip down memory lane, recounting where Siwan first fell in love with rugby, her influences, where and when she first played. For a lady who has been at the centre, and often the driving force, for some of Welsh Women's darkest but also brightest days he re-lives it all with Johnnie. Then there are the quick fire questions: best room mate, best memory, best ground, toughest opponent?!! There is also all the news from around the world; the sevens, news from Mexico, Cameroon, China, Sweden, Australia and who won all the awards at the Black Ferns end of season do.........? #WRP @podwomensrugby Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 134 - We are Warriors!  This week, Worcester's Director of Rugby Jo Yapp joins the pod. The former England international is very honest about the last few months that she & the rest of the Warrior players & staff have had to go through. How she has coped not knowing what the future was going to hold but also where the club (women's section) is now & how are they able to operate. The playing side of matters is also spoken about; the victory over Quins at the weekend, which is a double, as they beat them a few weeks back in the cup. In addition, where the squad find themselves now, with all that has gone on & a tender process to go through. Johnnie & "Yappy" do look back at the World Cup & the final, did England lose it or did New Zealand win it? Jo is thrown a curve-ball too.......what would you answer be if England came calling.........#WRP @podwomensrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 133 - WRP + SQ WC D-B!! (in English WRP & Scrum Queens World Cup debrief!) Recovered yet?! Ali Donnelly, the founder of Scrum Queens, joins Johnnie Hammond for a full debrief of the Rugby World Cup 2021, days after the New Zealand's Black Ferns beat England at the big dance, again. Now the dust is settling the pair discuss that final: the red card, the yellow card, the tactics, the substitutions, the decisions, the performances, England's bumpy road leading into the final & how the result has made them feel. The tournament as a whole is spoken about & the teams within in it that impressed & showed glimpses of what the future could look like. And looking ahead to England 2025 & the the immediate future for The Red Roses, is it time for fresh perspectives? Ali & JH also pick a team of the tournament: who will make the back 3, does Cockayne get the nod over try scoring machine Tuttosi, where do they go in the back row?!? And from that a player of the tournament touched on. A fascinating & insightful chat between these two.....not to be missed. #WRP @podwomensrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 132 - Final .......captain's log.  The World Cup final is upon us & yet again the Red Roses skipper Sarah Hunter (MBE!) hosts the pod with broadcaster Johnnie Hammond. We dive head-first into the England camp & get "Sunter's" thoughts on the semi final games, the quality & drama. Sarah also speaks about this week, what the mood is like in the camp, what they have been up to & who does what to relax & recuperate. The chat then moves to New Zealand & the match, Sunter's thoughts on facing them again in a final but this time in their back yard. Thoughts turn to selection & we hear from Simon Middleton - the Red Roses head coach - about the changes he has made & in particular the midfield selection. In the final part Sunter chats about the week as the captain, what she is doing & needs to do to get herself in the best possible place; when she will talk & when she will let others do the talking all the way up to kick off. And how this World Cup compares to others. A truly special in depth chat with England's historic captain, days out from another final, not one to be missed..........wonder if she won at "Tuc-Tuc!?!!?" @podwomensrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 131 - Captain's log: smiling semis with Fluhler, De Goede & Tuttosi. A comprehensive look at the World Cup semi finals with the lady of the hour, the record breaker Sarah Hunter MBE & challenging her for smiles we also have Black Fern Stacey Fluhler; as well as Canadian pair Sophie De Goede & Emily Tuttosi. "Sunter" takes us back to winning the record 138th cap at the weekend, what it has meant to her, how the squad & beyond showed their admiration, the celebrations, the role of her parents & also her performance against Australia. The chat quickly turns to rugby (Sunter was delighted!!), & what it was like to play rugby in a monsoon but also looking ahead to the semi final versus Canada. Does the Red Roses captain have an issue with her side's use of their forward power & how will they use that against Canada? We also go into the Canada camp to chat Halloween costumes, Emily Tuttosi's scoring record, the drive behind the Canadians' incredible success - as amateurs; & what sort of a captain is Sophie De Goede. From the other semi final we have multiple World Cup winner, "The Smiling assassin," Stacey Fluhler to chat what it is like to play in a home World Cup. Also the fun the Ferns have off the field, as well as what it is like to play in that backline. #WRP @podwomensrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 130 - Captain's log: round three Again this week we go right into the heart of the England camp with (our own &) their captian, Sarah Hunter. Off the back of round 2 & ahead of round 3, of the Rugby World Cup, the gang are back together to discuss it all! "Sunter," World Cup winner, Rachael Burford & World Cup commentator Johnnie Hammond look back at the round two results, with wins for England, Australia, USA, New Zealand, Canada & of course Fiji. Not only do we have the opinion of the lady who equalled the record number of caps for an English player, on the Red Roses' victory but also that of Bryony Cleall, twin sister of Poppy joins. They chat about where France got the better of England, where the improvement needs to be & are the no.1 team in the world holding back?!? They also look ahead to South Africa & the improvements the African nation has made in such a short period of time, as well as the admission that everyone is now a "Fiji fanatic!" From pool A a massive game for Wales up against Australia, the fly half - who has been having a stella tournament, so far - El Snowsill talks about the challenge the Wallaroos pose. The physicality they poses, where Wales can edge the encounter & also her analysis of her own performances to date. Heart-broken Scotland face New Zealand; the gang chat about what an opportunity that is to end on a high and all the other clashes from round 3 are covered as well: including Fiji taking on France, is there an upset there? Or perhaps for Japan taking on Italy?!!!!!? #WRP @podwomensrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 129 - La Crunch preview: Cockayne & Cornborough Huge game in pool C at the World Cup, the biggest; England against arch rivals France. these two great rugby nations are normally the ones battling it out for the 6 Nations titles, no love lost between the two & not many points normally separate them either. England have won the last ten but as two of The Red Roses's front rowers chat about, this World Cup game is different. Both nations started the tournament with wins but slow starts, Amy Cockayne & Vicki Cornborough discuss this start against Fiji & how they over came it. "We are all now Fiji super fans," was the upshot of that round 1 game but focus quickly goes to France. Their physicality, the importance of the scrum & territory is spoken about & the rivalry. Listen to what happened in the tunnel last time these two met....................#WRP @podwomenrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 128 - Captain's log, part 1The Women's Rugby World Cup started with a bang in New Zealand! England with a record breaking win v Fiji & France lying in wait this weekend. So who better to have on than our very "our" Sarah Hunter MBE, England captain & in line to win cap 137! Sunter takes us right into the Red Roses camp, an exclusive, privileged insight; speaking of waterfalls, cricket matches, marathons, electronic spiders & everything in between!! There is also some rugby chat, about just how good Fiji were, the pace of the game, what England need to brush up on. The mental side of dealing with these experiences on & off the field so that The Roses can stick to their "processes," is discussed. And what about the support & families out there in New Zealand & what will MrsHunter (Sarah's Mum) do with the flag.......wash or not to wash......#WRP #wrugby @podwomensrugby Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 127 - Pool C Pod  In the third and final pod this week, we cover off World Cup pool C, containing England, Fiji, France and South Africa. No better person to look ahead at England's opener and the rest of the pool games than the lady who lifted the trophy in 2014, Katy Daly-McLean (MBE!). The former captain talks about this time before the opening game and the keenness to get started, where England will go with selection and also tactics. JH and Katy chat about Fiji, the relatively unknown side of the competition, what they bring and how much of a challenge they will present to England. Lynne Cantwell, South Africa's Women's High Performance Manager, joins in with her experiences of New Zealand so far, what the team have been up to, her personal excitement and just how difficult it is to be in "management" not a player! How France will fair is also talked about, the change up of the squad and how they will play in these opening pool games. #wrugby @podwomensrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 126 - Pool Pod 'B'It is finally here the 2021 World Cup..............in 2022! As all 12 teams get ready to do battle, we take you inside no less than 8 of the camps. These are split into 3 pods, 1 of each pool, this episode concentrates pool B, with USA, Canada, Japan and Italy. Canada captain Sophie De Goede, the daughter of not 1 but 2 former captains, who lead Canada to World Cups! From the USA, Rob Cain, the former Premier XVs winning Saracens coach, gives us the lay of the land on his USA squad and what it means to him personally to be at a World Cup. They face Italy in the opening game and from that camp, Giada Franco, the all action flanker; chats with JH about the first week in New Zealand and where the squad are, ahead of round 1. #wrugby @podwomensrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 125 - Pool Pod 'A'It is finally here the 2021 World Cup..............in 2022! As all 12 teams get ready to do battle, we take you inside no less than 8 of the camps. These are split into 3 pods, 1 of each pool and first up pool A, containing Australia, New Zealand, Wales and Scotland. Burf (still on her holidays) and JH chat to Scotland captain Dr Rachel Malcolm, Wales stars Jazz Joyce and Georgia Evans and the inspirational Sharni Williams from the Wallaroos. These giants of the game speak about the building up to the tournament, what they have been up to since arriving in the land of the long white cloud and that opening ceremony! But also the opening games, where Australia take on the hosts and Scotland face off against 6 Nations rivals Wales.#wrugby @podwomensrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 124 - Calm before the storm On this week's pod, we've found Burf! The World Cup winner is sunning herself on holiday before the Big Dance starts and managed to take some time out of her busy schedule! Rachael and JH catch up on all the news from the last couple of weeks, while the pod has been entrenched "in camps!" Golden girl Sharni Williams is on, chatting about the Australia win at the World Cup in Cape Town. That was the Triple Crown for the green and gold, after winning the Commonwealth Games and the series title; the Wallaroo legend takes us through the emotions on final whistle. But also just how she and the rest of the squad have kept that incredible drive to succeed going. There is chat about World Cup squads, Black Fern and Fiji victories, news of Super Rugby Aupiki, Farah Palmer Cup, All Ireland league and London Irish. And Burf and JH give a message to all those at Worcester Warriors. Next week............."Pool Pods," all three World Cup pools will be covered, with guests from every nation. #wrugby @podwomensrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP - 123 - Welsh Dreams. In the second podcast of the week, we go into the Welsh camp; the day their World Cup squad was announced. The 32-player group has a good mix of youth and experience & we got the full gambit of emotions from players all over that spectrum. We spoke to the spiritual leader & captain Siwan Lillicrap, also Olympian Jazz Joyce. Saracens flanker Georgia Evans, in her first World Cup selection. Lowri Norkett also joins us, speaking of following in her sister, Eli's, footsteps, having been a spectator in 2014 & now a newly contracted player! And Kerin Lake, one of the veterans of the squad, in her third attempt to get to a World Cup, she has made it, despite the race against time with her latest injury.@podwomensrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 122 - The World Cup bunch. The first of this week's podcasts, is a special one, deep from inside the England camp on the day of their 2021 World Cup squad announcement. Johnnie was at Pennyhill Park (first time for the women's team!!) and got all the reaction to Simon Middleton's selection of the 32! We hear the thoughts of the Head coach in a very candid chat; within which those big omissions are discussed. Plus, of course, all those that did make the plane and the process and it's difficulty. Co-host and now England's World Cup captain, Sarah Hunter (MBE!) sits and has a yarn with Johnnie and gets quite emotional about the prospect of leading her country in New Zealand, especially in light of recent events. Burf dials in from her holidays to give her thoughts on the make up of the squad and details what Lucy Packer, her Quins team mate, will bring to the party. Finally from differing ends of the experience (and age!) scale, two of the forwards sit down with Sunter and JH. Sadia Kabeya, who has made a very late run to this squad and Laura Keats, so cruelly denied the chance to go to the last world event, both sit and give their thoughts and feelings on a great day for the pair. @podwomensrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 121 - The final dress rehearsal.......This week the pod comes "live" from Ashton Gate where England took on Wales, looking to make an historic 25 wins in a row. Burf & Johnnie are back face-2-face for the final warm up game & last match to put down a marker for selection for both the Red Roses & The Welsh. Burf & Johnnie & joined by another World Cup winner Katy Daly-McLean (MBE!!), pre match, to discuss where she thinks the Red Roses are, where they need to improve, what individuals are shining & those not; plus the midfield debate. They trio also talk about Wales, what they will take to the World Cup & the fly half role within the side is discussed. Johnnie also gets the thoughts of the the two World Cup winners' opinions on the World Cup squads that have been announced to date; New Zealand, Canada, Australia and France. In the aftermath of an impressive win and history made for Sarah Hunter's side, a host of stars pick through the bones of the game with RB & JH; Emily Scarratt (MBE), Sarah Bern & player of the match, hat trick hero, Helena Rowland. #WRP @podwomensrugby Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 120 - And so it begins.........we are back with series 4! And what a season it promises to be, not 1 but 2 World Cups, starting this weekend with the 7s World Cup & then on to New Zealand next month. Red Roses' captain & Johnnie Hammond reunite to kick off the series with all the news from the last couple of months. But no better place to start than last weekend & The Red Roses game against the USA. Watching from the "technical hydration area" Sunter had a perfect view of the game & gives her honest appraisal of both sides. There are a few bouquets thrown around for individual players such as Claudia MacDonald; so we had her join us!! The scrum half come winger chats about the emotional & at times, unbelievable, return to test rugby. She tells of the crushing news of her neck injury, how she bounced back emotionally & physically.....with a little help from Thailand & the medics! Sunter also tells all about how the Red Roses camp has been entertaining themselves; with coffee, cider & go-karts! And there's news from France, Italy, South Africa, New Zealand, Fiji; there's World Cup 7s chat as well.@podwomensrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Canterbury tales with Jodie Ounsely. The second part of this special mini-series, again The Women's Rugby Pod partners with the iconic rugby brand Canterbury. In this episode, Jodie Ounsley the Sale Sharks and England 7s player opens up about her past, her present, her hopes and aspirations for the future. One of Canterbury's newest ambassadors, Jodie, talks about the existence of her competitive nature from an early age, from coal racing (with carrots!) all the way to playing at Twickenham for her country, with sprinting, Jujitsu thrown in the mix too! The Sale Shark chats about her rugby found her and what made her stay in the sport when her challenges are bigger than most. Jodie was born profoundly deaf, at fourteen months (the youngest ever in the UK) she had a cochlear implant fitted and she has never looked back since. As you will hear Jodie sees nothing as a hurdle, just a way to get over it with the help and encouragement of her family, who she speaks about so fondly. The first deaf woman to represent an England senior team, Jodie speaks of the bumps in the road, how she has overcome them and just how much she has got and continues to get from rugby; now she has starting giving back. There's also stories and observations from her team mates. A warm, open, fun, inspirational chat with Jodie, so her......a perfect Canterbury ambassador. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WRP 119 - Tri-pod! The wash up. In this the final pod of this series, Rachael, Sarah and Johnnie review the season as a whole. The trio discuss the advancements the game has made, not only on the picture but also off it; the historic 6 Nations, the autumn internationals, Super Rugby Aupiki, World 7 Series, Pac 4(!!!)....as ever nothing is missed. They give their team of the season as well as the player of the season. But the latest news is not forgotten either with discussions on Scotland announcing their professional structure, pro player, teams and cross boarder challenges. Plus all the news from around the world with results from Rugby Europe 7s, South Africa's Premier Division and the rest of the headlines. #WRP @podwomenrugby [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Canterbury tales with Ellie Kildunne. The start of a special three-part series on The Women's Rugby Pod as we partner with the most iconic rugby apparel brand Canterbury. Harlequins and Red Roses star Ellie chats with Johnnie about her start in rugby the various challenges she faced and is still facing. How she got involved in the game, who helped and who hindered her on that journey. The twinkling-toed full back also speaks of her approach to the game, as an individual and the people in it and those around it. There is even mention of her "super power" that has helped her so far in her career and the changes she has seen, in the game, and those she hopes to see. It is a great open, informal, fun chat with one of England brightest stars and who knows she may be a World Cup winner by the end of the year........... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.