Agreed 100%. Full respect to 6N, but we have the best of both worlds with club rugby in the Northern Hemisphere & International competition in the South. AB's will always be our respected no. 1 opposition. I support Scotland anyway as the SA representative in the 6N 😉
No way NZ brilliant losing that is a big mistake ya Aus is struggling but win or lose their our foes Arg is now being a thorn in our boot, in the URC all teams are in the top 10 , Bulls top 2 with Leinster
hmm i don't know. money talks ya know... and the 6ns has money the rugby championship does not. With that said. Im happy with the 6 nations as is. i dont want it broken up for the greed of others. Im frankly tired of these pundits inventing stupid narratives to tell hypothetical silly stories for views. And thats all it is. click baiting
After watching chasing the sun 1 and seeing that showdown between Wales and South Africa its pretty insane how close Wales were to being world champions in 2019. Going from that to where they are at now is a cold reminder of how brutal marginal plays can be to national teams and nations
Yep, good point. Six Nations success from mid 00s to mid 10s papered over the cracks of WRU's internal admin and the regions. That win could have galvanised the club support-base and pumped millions into the system.
I'd be looking to add two South African teams to SuperRugby ... for the benefit of SARU, SuperRugby and South African domestic teams / players. Lions or Bulls & either Pumas or an EC based franchise. Cheetahs / Griquas franchise to replace the Lions in URC.
No they don’t. They get no rest period doing that. Not to mention that most of the big name South African stars play in the Japanese top league, not that strong. The Aus super rugby sides could beat any Welsh, all Scottish sides apart from Glasgow and some SA teams. Also they’d beat all Irish ones apart from maybe Munster or Leinster.
@@benjaminpanapa3907 The assertion that Aus SuperRugby teams would beat Edinburgh or the other two Irish teams, or any of the SA teams is a little laughable. The 12 month season is a problem for SA players, but that's where the Japanese league is an advantage when it comes to resting top players. While there aren't as many matches, that championship is stronger than you realise, given the names playing in it.
6N is a good competition and I love watching it. The greatest thing about it is that it keeps convincing some of those teams that they are the best in the world. 😉
Andy Goode - last time the Abs played Sa at Eden park was 2013. They have played SA twice in Auckland since then - in 2017 which the ABs won 57-0 and then 2023 (Eden park was unavailable due to women’s fifa World Cup) and smacked them 35-20. The last time SA won at Eden park was 1937
I am a French rugby fan and my idol was Gareth Edward and JPR William and Phil Benneth then came Dupond I am sad for Wales. I hope they will return to the level they are at.
Happy new year Gents, great to have you back on air. My info has it that NZ and Aus decided to exclude SA and go it alone with the Islanders forgetting that the bulk of the tv viewership came out of SA which, besides many other downsides, is why the competitions tv revenues are down. URC viewership greatly up because of SA's inclusion. SA has to find a way to give players a break, currently Bokke play 12 months of the year, difficult to sustain.
I thought the RSA international players were to have individualized 8 week rest periods. It’s just good practice to manage players appropriately for high performance. Just maybe less chatted about, the individualized plans are also likely less disruptive
I really enjoy the insights of all 3 of these guys but also their communication skills - they sum up sn argument persuasively but succinctly. A nice balance of interesting chat and banter.
You chaps are spot on. The 2 countries down under took it upon themselves to oust South Africa, but that was perilous to their own development, and now they want the Boks back, and they even organized tours now to SA. The Boks are really the envy of the rugby world.
@KIWINZ2024 please speak to JK,Jeff Wilson, and the like. So you tell me you don't watch the breakdown??. Why do you see it fit now to arrange 3 test tours to SA?? You thought you had it all figured out, but sadly, you were mistaken. Boks all the way!!!!
Re NZ v SA not played at Eden park: Prior to 2015, the game was regularly held at Eden Park; The boks have only played one game in NZ since 2019; That game in 2023, Fifa women's world cup clashed with Boks test, so eden park unavailable; Generally, NZ v Oz will draw attendance fans from across the tasman. Fewer travelling fans, means less revenue into the city, so Auckland less interested in it. The boks game is more of a global tv event than a money spinner for the NZ host city. The odd one out is in 2017. NZ v SA was held at North Harbour stadium in Auckland. Can't recall why. Could've been a concert at Eden Park. Two Lions tests were held at Eden park earlier in the year and rugby doesn't own the park. Only has so much use of it. Possibly had completed it's consent allocation for the year
@@MrBlack_nzI think Goode needs a reminder that the two times NZ tried to “protect our Eden Park record” by moving games to other Auckland venues the All Blacks spanked the Boks
@@louistheron5153 SA started this winning run at RWC 2019. One NZ v SA match played in NZ since 2019 and the fixture was held during a fifa world cup which held precedence over all NZ stadiums. We're lucky nzru didn't take the 2023 game to Riyadh or Beijing. Read my op again. Only 2017 match is odd to have been held away from Eden park and I'd suggest it's cos 2 Lions tests used up nzru resource allocation
Yup .That would ruin the history of the 6 nations . It’s a comp I’ve grown to really enjoy . With our SA teams in Europe I’ve started watching the highlights of nearly all the games , SA involved or not .
@reeld99 and sorry, its not about gatekeeping the 6 nations but in the same way I would never advocate to split up the tri nations (I know, RC now) as there is too much history with the SH teams to just disband
Even as an Irish supporter, I think France will take it this year. I also think England have a great chance. You would have to back France though with the current form their top 3 teams are in right now in the Top 14 and CC. When they come together they produce so much power, balls skills, kicking etc. Just can’t see anyone hanging on with their attack for 80 mins. If the English lads are allowed to play more free flowing ball they could be in serious contention. If Borthwick lets those Prem lads play loose, around the edges, through gaps they could be awfully hard to deal with, even in the Aviva they always turn up. Imo they are too structured atm and it’s hindering the team not only for the fans but their ability to close out games. If they can find the right balance between trusting their instincts when to attack and cut back on the rush defence slightly more they could be very hard to keep up with. I think Irelands Achilles heel at the moment is the amount of Leinster players we have (which is by merit not by for the craic munster fans!). Unfortunately the Leinster game translates into a lot of Irish plays at the moment and they seem to be lack lustre in attack. When Lancaster was at Leinster our attack was unbelievable. Since he’s been gone the Irish attack just hasn’t been the same. Hopefully Easterbury and the lads can fix this! Gonna make a hell of a tournament though!
But by the same token Ireland are made up of mostly Leinster players and they're sitting pretty right now. I think England will lose against Ireland and it'll be down to Ireland vs France for the Six Nations. I think Scotland will beat England again and Wales will beat Italy. I think France will beat England too.
It doesn’t really matter where you are from, France still aren’t taking it. Club rugby is irrelevant when it comes to assessing where a team is at as we see time and time again in this tournament. Well teams have been able to hang on with their attack, that’s why they’ve only won 1 6N in 5 years. England need to worry about beating a side consistently that isn’t Japan first before we talk about them winning a tournament. Again using club rugby to judge international rugby is pointless, the level of intensity is at another level.
As much as the two world cups and the BI Lions victory means to South Africa, a win at Eden Park might just be the jewel in the crown of the Springboks at the moment. Soringboks v All Blacks is unquestionably the biggest game in the sport, but to have such high stakes in this fixture makes it absolutely must-see. I'd love to see my Bokkies bring the heavy artillery in and take it, but I'm also very aware that New Zealand would fight tooth and nail to keep the streak alive. This match will be as fierce as anything you've ever seen.
No way will Bok fans allow 6 Nations over Champions Cup with all due respect, 6 nations is class but the greatest rivalry in sport is epitomised in the champions cup
Love how players & teams are increasingly mixed up - adds variety and helps to close gaps and improves the game - agree need more investment and to avoid overdominance by any single party - premiership in soccer not a bad model...but would also caution not to over dilute - rugby has some great characters like Russell, Barrett(s) Mitchell, Smith(s) Lawes, Willis Ludlum and supporting them moving around and still playing for team and country gives us all the stories that engage us - loving this season!!
Six nations competition is diluted, because of 2 non-performing countries. Should you sell tickets for Wales or Italy games? The Springboks will add spice and might win the competition. It’s about money gain, bringing in the top rugby team. 😊😊
Rugby will never have broad appeal unless it changes 2 things: 1. The ambiguity of the laws 2. The complexity of the laws Broadly speaking, as an example, if a fan cannot step up and referee a local game decently well, there will never be enough fans.
15:28 spot on, even more specifically, a clear long-term strategy is needed if the game is to survive and thrive as it becomes corporatized. How will rugby culture (history, practice, philosophy, etc of rugby nations) be affected once the Saudi / US money comes in?
What would the impact be if the IRB implimented universal individual salary caps across all clubs globally? Not to the extent that players need to deliver pizzas after the game on Saturday but enough to afford more clubs the opportunity to contract some of the big names. It feels like too many clubs struggle to be competitive against clubs that can afford to have superstars on the bench.
Leinster win the double and Ireland win the 6 Nations. Leinster have bought in the missing links to close out the 2 competitions this year. Snyman, Barrett and Slimani are huge additions. Ireland are at home for England and France. They should be favourites in both games.
I agree with Jim, if there is a competition that South African clubs need to get back to, is Super Rugby! Personally, I'll never want to give up the Rugby Championship or Super Rugby for the 6N!!
Would love to see, however unlikely: "Australia shock Lions in Brisbane" "Springboks conquer Eden Park" "Leinster get 5th Euro star" "Bulls win their first URC title"
I really hope that England don't play M Smith at 15 during the six nations - he'd be brilliant from an attacking point of view but the thought of him under the high ball is terrifying (despite the fact that his defence has improved massively in the last couple of years). Steward is playing well but his lack of pace in defence is also likely to be exposed, having said that I think he will be Borthwick's choice.
Completely agree with Jim. Super Rugby needs South Africa back. I'm not a fan of South African teams in the European competitions for a few reasons both traditional and logistical but my main gripe is; I miss old Super Rugby. It's not the same without fixtures like Bulls vs Crusaders - the clash of the titans from different rutby worlds. Its epic. Also I like the mystique of the divide between NH and SH and us only coming together for big fixtures. Mingling SA sides in European competitions is so meh.
We already have inter-hemisphere games in the Autumn internationals, the Six Nations is so loved because it’s a gritty NH Derby. Who’s going to care about competing to be crowned king in the North when SA will simply dominate the whole tournament year in, year out…
Hold on a sec here! It was the URC who saw the potential in the SA Teams joining when they were stuck in Limbo after the Aussies and kiwis threw them out of super rugby.
Rubbish, SA had voiced leaving for years for different reasons and when GOVERNMENT enforced travel restrictions were put in place in NZ & AUS during covid the SA teams were left in limbo and went north. Worked out ok for them though didnt it.
Picture this guy's.. If Ronin O Gara was manager of the England rugby team. All he has to do is find the right combinations, the talend is one of the strongest in the world
This is often said in rugby and soccer and goes unchallenged. One has to ask if it is actually true. One grand slam in 20 years going 2 wins from 5 for a while in the 6 nation's. ( 3/5 wins this year in fairness ) I'm not saying they're not talented. However, I find in reality, it is massively exaggerated. Especially by the Welsh amd other English people for some reason. It could be cultural, but one has to wonder because of your blanket statement on being unquestionably said all the time. Have they misdiagnosed their own problems, and this has led to the above below average results with all the resources
@@DM-rp9ik I agree. Their biggest weakness is the English media. They believe their own hype and it gets to the players. Their Football team has won ONE International tournament in all it's history (Despite claiming to be the father of football), and that was even on dodgy circumstances, yet every Euro's or WC year, the hype train gets crazy as if they're out and out favorites. I think the day the English media takes a back seat and just let's it's teams go out and play, will be the day that English team sport, internationally, starts to become more consistent. Bok fans on the socials can be insufferable at times, but one thing we never do is start nonsense like "It's coming home". We take it a game at a time and only celebrate once the job is done. in 2019 and 2023 we only became arrogant after the final whistle, not before.
Australia and New Zealand need each. I believe New Zealand will find a way if SA leave. However we’d have to help Australia come up. New Zealand’s history will always give me hope that we’ll be back.
I think the last game I remember going to at Eden Park when we v the Boks was back in 2013 when Duplessis got a red card for two yellow infringements which was a bullshit referring decision as it was a good tackle he made on Carter but it was a French ref so I wasn't really surprised. I cant wait for this years two matches v the Boks. Its about time we played them at Eden Park. I dont know why we hardly do because NZ generally have had it all over the Boks when we play them in NZ. I think the last time we lost to them at home was back in 2018. It might be because in NZ unlike other Northern Hemisphere countries we dont play all the test matches at one venue. There would be rioting in NZ if that happened as the smaller stadiums and provinces would never see an All Blacks test match and thats not how we roll. Our rugby is nothing without the support of the nation and that would be hard to come by if All Black tests werent shared around. Generally its always a mid year test and the Bledisloe Cup match that is played there as the Bledisloe cup is the most important trophy to kiwis besides the world cup. Kiwis already kicked up a stink back in 2017 when Eden Park hosted two Lions test matches as it was deemed unfair to the South Island to not host at least one so even though you would probably make more money having all tests at Eden Park I cant see it ever happening.
The Du Plessis tackle on Carter stood the test of time, as it will be a legal tackle even today. The French ref bottled it and cost us any real chance of victory.
Remember those classic tests 2013/2014 at Joburg? Just incredible games. Still gutted for that red card. It was still a tight game, but just robbed us of another classic
Agree. That would upset the old boy Norther Hemisphere net work. The Rugby Championship is a great competition and now Aussie are improving under Joe Smit it will be even better. I think it will be close in 2025 but still pick the Boks (hard to say as a Kiwi) but the Boks are so strong and hard to beat, but we are on the rise.
Talking about the depth in the prem, you need to keep in mind some of the best players aren't eligible for the English. Best prop is a South African, Best lock is Samoan, Best centre's are Tongan and South African, Best winger is Argentinian, Best fullback is a cruise ship.
"Predigast goes with BL....""Finn Smith hasn't had enough experience.....big leap between club and country".......😂 The 10 shirt is very interesting this 6 nations.
A Wales team of players that literally win 15% at a push of club games.. I don’t know where the motivation, confidence and desire to take that step up is there. I think until the regional sides improve the outlook for the national side is grim 😢
Really disliked Biggar as a player (no need to dwell on that) but he’s a superb pundit here. Very insightful, calm and huge knowledge. His point about the step up from club to international is so true.Some players just can’t make that step up. Some can. All part of the fun. Also worth saying that Tuipolotu is an amazing player, but it has taken him a few years to get there and at the start of his Scotland career he look decent but not as good as he does now. Toonie really does have a fine eye for such players…..
My view, the players that Andy has at his disposal it would be a 3-0 to the Lions. Irish front row. Maybe a Scotsman Sandre Furgerson and definitely his brother in the mix. Loose forwards a hard choice. Calin Doris,, locks Mario, Rory Darge. So many.to select and unbeatable
NZ and Aus wanted Saffie clubs out of Super Rugby for over a decade. They whinged about travel, and the putting Arg & Japan in SA's pool was the last straw.
We want to be in Super Rugby, they kicked us out of it… thank you to the URC and Champions Cup for taking us and arguably NZ and AUS rugby needs us in Super Rugby as well
I as a leinster fan, I thank SAF for their Coach. I think the URC has benefitted. I think we should open up the 6 Nations. Wales have more chance of beating me at getting my right bins out on monday evening, bet they put the wrong colour out.... shhhh It's black bin and green bin, don't tell them... they'll still fxck it up and thats more on them. Bin juice side
They will never let the Boks into the 6 Nations because the Boks just might win it. Just look at history - no new team that had a legitimate chance of winning the tournament was ever let in. France officially joined in 1910 and first won it in 1954. Italy was let in in 2000 and they've never won it.
SA in the 6 Nations is a terrible idea. I would definitely support a knockout tournament if Georgia could show the ability to host the fans and have the infrastructure. It would be nice to see the B&I lions do a home tour once every 4 years to fit in between the current schedule. We could host all 4 southern hemisphere teams as going on tour with the lions is a huge expense, completely out of reach for most fans.
The only benefit of SA joining the 6N is that their players who are based in Europe and in SA would no longer be playing a 12 month season, which is not sustainable. But you can’t see them leaving the Championship.
Ssudi/Qatari money will ruin the game for me. Two states with horrendous human rights violations trying to wash filthy money. It'd almost be as bad as Israeli money.
FARK theres alot of misinformation around why the SA teams left Super. It wasnt because it got diluted and boring because the conference series was ideated to guarantee SA and Oz teams making the finals series because bar maybe the Stormers at the time the rest of the SA teams were year on year in the bottom 6. There is absolutely nothing wrong with Super right now as the Kiwi derby's are real bell-ringers and with the Schmidt effect improving the Wallabies AND the Melbourne franchise gone giving each remaining Oz team more depth hopefully the finals series will be real Trans-Tasman battles of old.
If we were serious about SA joining, Georgia be joining too so everyone got a game every week. But the logistics of moving games to SA don’t make sense, and that’s already clear with the Champions Cup. Plus clubs will never go for losing their chaps for another 2/3 weeks.
Under Rassie Boks stats vs NZ: In NZ: 1 win 1 loss 1 draw In SA: 3 wins 2 losses In Aus: (Covid) 1 win 1 loss Neutral: 2 wins 1 loss Total: 7 wins 5 losses 1 draw Points: (for/against) Home: 128 for 116 against In NZ: 72 for 85 against Neutral: 108 for 89 against Total: 308 for 290 against If any team could do it presently, it would be Rassie managed Boks, but its certainly going to be tough and will take an almighty effort. As much as Rassie has achieved in resurrecting and transforming the Bok game, playing NZ, in NZ, is very much still the challenge it always was, as Bok fan, just greatful, its proper competitive now, unlike the nonsense before him.
Always laughable to see people getting precious about the 6 nations. It was 4,then 5, now 6. Why can't it expand/improve? Italy, Wales and Scotland are hardly massive drawcards unless at home.
Thing is their first game in effect is a warm up game and ideal for them to start the tournament on the front foot. I think they have Ireland at home so i believe France will Slam beating England in Twickenham by 8pts
Super rugby did not benefit South African rugby or the style of the South African rugby, from a springboks fan it was the best thing ever happening that we left super rugby!
I'm a Springbok fan and definitely DO NOT want to see us join the 6 Nations!! Playing NZ, Australia and Argentina is far more entertaining and exciting - and it keeps us familiar with different playing styles and locations. The "best of both worlds" approach is what will help keep us at the top, because our players will have better exposure than any other nation's.
100%. Rugby Championship is still the toughest rugby competition on the planet outside of the RWC. Argentina's star is rising. Australia is turning a corner. Potentially. NZ want payback for a tough year. 2025 will be incredibly competitive. Going to be tough for the Boks to do it again. It needs to be tough. It what makes the SH strong.
England beat Wales during the “1st Golden Era” because the ‘Welsh Committee’ set the strategy and were too slow in over 100 years committees and coaches have not learned, when you pick a player based on club performance let him play do not restrict. The old saying ‘play what’s in front of you’ still relevant. Plans only valid till fit. Plan only valid until first contact!
Steve will not pick a team around Marcus, so he should pick Finn Smith at 10. I'd have picked Barnes ilo Andrew, and Cipreani ilo Farrell. I'd give Marcus a year picking the whole team to suit him. But Steve won't. A shame.
Money is why we in this shit. I watched money come in, in the 90s and they said it will be good for all rugby, grass roots and all. Now we pay $30 for a steak n cheese pie, chips can of coke and $180 ticket, to watch from the back. What a joke when you clowns sit there and ask for more money for the greedy...
I don't think any Springbok fan would give up NZ for the 6N
Agreed 100%. Full respect to 6N, but we have the best of both worlds with club rugby in the Northern Hemisphere & International competition in the South. AB's will always be our respected no. 1 opposition. I support Scotland anyway as the SA representative in the 6N 😉
I agree, we are fine playing in the Rugby Championship
Rugby championship is harder and you play twice against each team. There are no easy games.
No way NZ brilliant losing that is a big mistake ya Aus is struggling but win or lose their our foes Arg is now being a thorn in our boot, in the URC all teams are in the top 10 , Bulls top 2 with Leinster
hmm i don't know. money talks ya know... and the 6ns has money the rugby championship does not.
With that said. Im happy with the 6 nations as is. i dont want it broken up for the greed of others. Im frankly tired of these pundits inventing stupid narratives to tell hypothetical silly stories for views. And thats all it is. click baiting
No way. The Boks natural rivals are NZ. This should never ever change. Ever.
After watching chasing the sun 1 and seeing that showdown between Wales and South Africa its pretty insane how close Wales were to being world champions in 2019. Going from that to where they are at now is a cold reminder of how brutal marginal plays can be to national teams and nations
Yep, good point. Six Nations success from mid 00s to mid 10s papered over the cracks of WRU's internal admin and the regions. That win could have galvanised the club support-base and pumped millions into the system.
😂 not to mention SA throwing the opening game for an easier path to final.
@@SteveWarlee yea and then everyone over estimated the all blacks untill England smashed em
Plus Wales won the Slam in 19 and were 6N champions in 21 (seconds away from another slam in Paris). The fall from grace is crazy
@@SteveWarlee Sure they did.
Springboks & ABs is the greatest rivalry in all of rugby. Nothing like a Boks v AB on Ellis Park. Nothing like that
Neither team hates the other though. They’re the two best teams but it’s hardly a gripping rivalry. It’s the best rugby
I think things have changed. At the moment, 🇫🇷 and 🇮🇪 are in the mix.
SA Rugby really has the best of both currently, with their clubs playing in the north and the Boks in the Rugby Championship. I wouldn't change it.
I'd be looking to add two South African teams to SuperRugby ... for the benefit of SARU, SuperRugby and South African domestic teams / players. Lions or Bulls & either Pumas or an EC based franchise. Cheetahs / Griquas franchise to replace the Lions in URC.
No they don’t. They get no rest period doing that. Not to mention that most of the big name South African stars play in the Japanese top league, not that strong. The Aus super rugby sides could beat any Welsh, all Scottish sides apart from Glasgow and some SA teams. Also they’d beat all Irish ones apart from maybe Munster or Leinster.
@@benjaminpanapa3907 The assertion that Aus SuperRugby teams would beat Edinburgh or the other two Irish teams, or any of the SA teams is a little laughable.
The 12 month season is a problem for SA players, but that's where the Japanese league is an advantage when it comes to resting top players. While there aren't as many matches, that championship is stronger than you realise, given the names playing in it.
6N is a good competition and I love watching it. The greatest thing about it is that it keeps convincing some of those teams that they are the best in the world. 😉
Andy Goode - last time the Abs played Sa at Eden park was 2013. They have played SA twice in Auckland since then - in 2017 which the ABs won 57-0 and then 2023 (Eden park was unavailable due to women’s fifa World Cup) and smacked them 35-20. The last time SA won at Eden park was 1937
Happy New Year Guys, Great to see you back!! How does Andy feel about Lancasters sledging ?...
the lads are back!
I agree. 6 Nations is for the northern hemisphere teams not for southern hemisphere teams
Yes only way for NH to get a trophy in their cabinet.
They sure do like to have the SH players in their teams tho
I am a French rugby fan and my idol was Gareth Edward and JPR William and Phil Benneth then came Dupond I am sad for Wales. I hope they will return to the level they are at.
Happy new year Gents, great to have you back on air. My info has it that NZ and Aus decided to exclude SA and go it alone with the Islanders forgetting that the bulk of the tv viewership came out of SA which, besides many other downsides, is why the competitions tv revenues are down. URC viewership greatly up because of SA's inclusion. SA has to find a way to give players a break, currently Bokke play 12 months of the year, difficult to sustain.
Nope. South African clubs voted to leave.
Properly wrong bruv.
@@murraysmith595 Nope. In the middle of the Covid lockdowns, NZ developed a new tournament excluding them (and Argentina and Japan).
No go do research,they were forced out
I thought the RSA international players were to have individualized 8 week rest periods. It’s just good practice to manage players appropriately for high performance. Just maybe less chatted about, the individualized plans are also likely less disruptive
Ireland under the radar- suits us!
Exactly I love it.
You’re not. Don’t listen to these. Joint favs with France
And rightly so
"The 6 nations is so traditional, so set" . Not a lifetime ago it was still the 5 nations.
Exactly. Nothing is set. It's all about the cash money dorra.
I really enjoy the insights of all 3 of these guys but also their communication skills - they sum up sn argument persuasively but succinctly. A nice balance of interesting chat and banter.
You chaps are spot on. The 2 countries down under took it upon themselves to oust South Africa, but that was perilous to their own development, and now they want the Boks back, and they even organized tours now to SA. The Boks are really the envy of the rugby world.
No one wants the boks back down here 😂😂 yous are dreaming
@@KIWINZ2024 is it because you don't like losing
Well admittedly you guys got flogged every game when you were in the comp.
@@AKHNZ the comp you kicked us out ya crusaders where the best team but every one wants to face the best for now the Boks are
@KIWINZ2024 please speak to JK,Jeff Wilson, and the like. So you tell me you don't watch the breakdown??. Why do you see it fit now to arrange 3 test tours to SA?? You thought you had it all figured out, but sadly, you were mistaken. Boks all the way!!!!
Re NZ v SA not played at Eden park:
Prior to 2015, the game was regularly held at Eden Park;
The boks have only played one game in NZ since 2019;
That game in 2023, Fifa women's world cup clashed with Boks test, so eden park unavailable;
Generally, NZ v Oz will draw attendance fans from across the tasman. Fewer travelling fans, means less revenue into the city, so Auckland less interested in it. The boks game is more of a global tv event than a money spinner for the NZ host city.
The odd one out is in 2017. NZ v SA was held at North Harbour stadium in Auckland. Can't recall why. Could've been a concert at Eden Park. Two Lions tests were held at Eden park earlier in the year and rugby doesn't own the park. Only has so much use of it. Possibly had completed it's consent allocation for the year
Andy Goode has lost his marbles 😂
Springboks have won twice at Eden Park.
The last coming in 1937.
He’s just trying to creative narrative
@@MrBlack_nzI think Goode needs a reminder that the two times NZ tried to “protect our Eden Park record” by moving games to other Auckland venues the All Blacks spanked the Boks
They've been dodging the venue since they started losing to SA
@@MrBlack_nzNZ have been dodging that venue since the boks took the game to the next level
@@louistheron5153 SA started this winning run at RWC 2019. One NZ v SA match played in NZ since 2019 and the fixture was held during a fifa world cup which held precedence over all NZ stadiums. We're lucky nzru didn't take the 2023 game to Riyadh or Beijing.
Read my op again. Only 2017 match is odd to have been held away from Eden park and I'd suggest it's cos 2 Lions tests used up nzru resource allocation
The moment the American or ME oligarchic / corporate come into rugby is the moment I leave all professional rugby alone completely.
France has a lot of chance to the 6N since Dupont is back
Boks no, but needs to be chance of promotion for Georgia or Portugal etc to 6nations
Sorry SA. You're a great team, with great history. But we actually don't need you in the 6 nations
No apologies. I wouldn't want us in the 6 nations. The games vs NZ and aussies are too tantalising to ever give up.
@daggaboom this is it exactly. The 6 nations has a huge history, as do your tests Vs Oz and NZ. I doubt either side wants to give that up
Yup .That would ruin the history of the 6 nations . It’s a comp I’ve grown to really enjoy . With our SA teams in Europe I’ve started watching the highlights of nearly all the games , SA involved or not .
@reeld99 and sorry, its not about gatekeeping the 6 nations but in the same way I would never advocate to split up the tri nations (I know, RC now) as there is too much history with the SH teams to just disband
Agree, don’t want 6N. Stick to RC, its best of both worlds.
Even as an Irish supporter, I think France will take it this year. I also think England have a great chance. You would have to back France though with the current form their top 3 teams are in right now in the Top 14 and CC. When they come together they produce so much power, balls skills, kicking etc. Just can’t see anyone hanging on with their attack for 80 mins.
If the English lads are allowed to play more free flowing ball they could be in serious contention. If Borthwick lets those Prem lads play loose, around the edges, through gaps they could be awfully hard to deal with, even in the Aviva they always turn up.
Imo they are too structured atm and it’s hindering the team not only for the fans but their ability to close out games. If they can find the right balance between trusting their instincts when to attack and cut back on the rush defence slightly more they could be very hard to keep up with.
I think Irelands Achilles heel at the moment is the amount of Leinster players we have (which is by merit not by for the craic munster fans!). Unfortunately the Leinster game translates into a lot of Irish plays at the moment and they seem to be lack lustre in attack. When Lancaster was at Leinster our attack was unbelievable. Since he’s been gone the Irish attack just hasn’t been the same. Hopefully Easterbury and the lads can fix this!
Gonna make a hell of a tournament though!
But by the same token Ireland are made up of mostly Leinster players and they're sitting pretty right now. I think England will lose against Ireland and it'll be down to Ireland vs France for the Six Nations. I think Scotland will beat England again and Wales will beat Italy. I think France will beat England too.
It doesn’t really matter where you are from, France still aren’t taking it. Club rugby is irrelevant when it comes to assessing where a team is at as we see time and time again in this tournament. Well teams have been able to hang on with their attack, that’s why they’ve only won 1 6N in 5 years.
England need to worry about beating a side consistently that isn’t Japan first before we talk about them winning a tournament. Again using club rugby to judge international rugby is pointless, the level of intensity is at another level.
@@celticlofts not sure how you measure that they are sitting pretty. Care to share? 😀
@speak_your_truth. They're unbeaten so far this year
@@DM-rp9ik 0 from 0. That's a high bar you set yourself
As much as the two world cups and the BI Lions victory means to South Africa, a win at Eden Park might just be the jewel in the crown of the Springboks at the moment.
Soringboks v All Blacks is unquestionably the biggest game in the sport, but to have such high stakes in this fixture makes it absolutely must-see.
I'd love to see my Bokkies bring the heavy artillery in and take it, but I'm also very aware that New Zealand would fight tooth and nail to keep the streak alive. This match will be as fierce as anything you've ever seen.
No way will Bok fans allow 6 Nations over Champions Cup with all due respect, 6 nations is class but the greatest rivalry in sport is epitomised in the champions cup
Not any longer, it's been further diluted with Saffer teams not sending full teams
@@speak_your_truth. Meant to say "Rugby Championship" I think. NZ vs SA.
We as nz guy wontem down here. The thought of a 3 game match north south. I like' n do need sa.
Love how players & teams are increasingly mixed up - adds variety and helps to close gaps and improves the game - agree need more investment and to avoid overdominance by any single party - premiership in soccer not a bad model...but would also caution not to over dilute - rugby has some great characters like Russell, Barrett(s) Mitchell, Smith(s) Lawes, Willis Ludlum and supporting them moving around and still playing for team and country gives us all the stories that engage us - loving this season!!
Agreed with Biggar on the Boks in the 6N, tournament is really good as it is and you dont need them in there.
I mean what trophies would the NH then win?
@@jonathandavis8599😂
Six nations competition is diluted, because of 2 non-performing countries. Should you sell tickets for Wales or Italy games? The Springboks will add spice and might win the competition. It’s about money gain, bringing in the top rugby team. 😊😊
I agree. Keep 6Nations European. Personally, I prefer the URC and Rugby Champs only 💚💛🇿🇦
@jonathandavis859👏👏👏9
Rugby will never have broad appeal unless it changes 2 things:
1. The ambiguity of the laws
2. The complexity of the laws
Broadly speaking, as an example, if a fan cannot step up and referee a local game decently well, there will never be enough fans.
Totally agree, it's so hard to follow as casual and so much of the decision making is down to the interpretation of the ref on the day.
Yes.
15:28 spot on, even more specifically, a clear long-term strategy is needed if the game is to survive and thrive as it becomes corporatized.
How will rugby culture (history, practice, philosophy, etc of rugby nations) be affected once the Saudi / US money comes in?
What would the impact be if the IRB implimented universal individual salary caps across all clubs globally? Not to the extent that players need to deliver pizzas after the game on Saturday but enough to afford more clubs the opportunity to contract some of the big names. It feels like too many clubs struggle to be competitive against clubs that can afford to have superstars on the bench.
Leinster win the double and Ireland win the 6 Nations.
Leinster have bought in the missing links to close out the 2 competitions this year. Snyman, Barrett and Slimani are huge additions.
Ireland are at home for England and France. They should be favourites in both games.
Have been pretry poor since RWC
Springboks win at Eden Park !!!
I agree with Jim, if there is a competition that South African clubs need to get back to, is Super Rugby! Personally, I'll never want to give up the Rugby Championship or Super Rugby for the 6N!!
You'll see at least 5 Irish starters for the lions, if not more
And none of them will be Irish 🤣🤣🤣
Would love to see, however unlikely:
"Australia shock Lions in Brisbane"
"Springboks conquer Eden Park"
"Leinster get 5th Euro star"
"Bulls win their first URC title"
Scotland 6 Nations. There is something about that squad at the moment
@ltm277 Good shout
The garden of Eden will remain strong. It should be “All blacks remain unbeaten at Eden park”
@@Waks23 It will be a tough game. If the ABs go there too cocky they will lose it.
@@Bennusan1 that’s a big “IF” but I know their focus will be head strong, just cause it’s THE fortress, the Garden of Eden.
Let’s see this card count stat by the next episode… and Dan’s it’s not like that angry Welshman hasn’t seen a few? 😂
Great advertising lads !
I really hope that England don't play M Smith at 15 during the six nations - he'd be brilliant from an attacking point of view but the thought of him under the high ball is terrifying (despite the fact that his defence has improved massively in the last couple of years).
Steward is playing well but his lack of pace in defence is also likely to be exposed, having said that I think he will be Borthwick's choice.
George Hendy
1-oh dear ...please leave the 6N as it is . Capetown🤣...
2-agree with. Dan re Scotland could be the surprise!...
3- Huw Jones for sure
I miss the old school super rugby SA rugby has evolved and id like to see how they will fare in the same old setup we had back then
Completely agree with Jim. Super Rugby needs South Africa back. I'm not a fan of South African teams in the European competitions for a few reasons both traditional and logistical but my main gripe is; I miss old Super Rugby. It's not the same without fixtures like Bulls vs Crusaders - the clash of the titans from different rutby worlds. Its epic. Also I like the mystique of the divide between NH and SH and us only coming together for big fixtures. Mingling SA sides in European competitions is so meh.
Boks and AB will be trading off #1 and #2
I think the ABs will get the boks at Eden. Just a feeling that the team will only get better, god I hope i can get a ticket
We already have inter-hemisphere games in the Autumn internationals, the Six Nations is so loved because it’s a gritty NH Derby.
Who’s going to care about competing to be crowned king in the North when SA will simply dominate the whole tournament year in, year out…
Hold on a sec here! It was the URC who saw the potential in the SA Teams joining when they were stuck in Limbo after the Aussies and kiwis threw them out of super rugby.
Rubbish, SA had voiced leaving for years for different reasons and when GOVERNMENT enforced travel restrictions were put in place in NZ & AUS during covid the SA teams were left in limbo and went north. Worked out ok for them though didnt it.
After the game in NZ it will be called Eben park
Scotland, the #SCOvIRE game is then key!! Can they?
Are all the games not key
A agree if Scotland win first 2 games a can see it being the first in a long long time 💙🏴
Picture this guy's..
If Ronin O Gara was manager of the England rugby team. All he has to do is find the right combinations, the talend is one of the strongest in the world
This is often said in rugby and soccer and goes unchallenged. One has to ask if it is actually true. One grand slam in 20 years going 2 wins from 5 for a while in the 6 nation's. ( 3/5 wins this year in fairness ) I'm not saying they're not talented. However, I find in reality, it is massively exaggerated. Especially by the Welsh amd other English people for some reason. It could be cultural, but one has to wonder because of your blanket statement on being unquestionably said all the time. Have they misdiagnosed their own problems, and this has led to the above below average results with all the resources
@@DM-rp9ik2 grand slams….but fair points. We might have the strongest depth but depth doesn’t necessarily win games.
@@DM-rp9ik I agree. Their biggest weakness is the English media. They believe their own hype and it gets to the players. Their Football team has won ONE International tournament in all it's history (Despite claiming to be the father of football), and that was even on dodgy circumstances, yet every Euro's or WC year, the hype train gets crazy as if they're out and out favorites. I think the day the English media takes a back seat and just let's it's teams go out and play, will be the day that English team sport, internationally, starts to become more consistent.
Bok fans on the socials can be insufferable at times, but one thing we never do is start nonsense like "It's coming home". We take it a game at a time and only celebrate once the job is done. in 2019 and 2023 we only became arrogant after the final whistle, not before.
Australia and New Zealand need each. I believe New Zealand will find a way if SA leave. However we’d have to help Australia come up. New Zealand’s history will always give me hope that we’ll be back.
Wales for the Slam!
The bookies would give you great odds on that.
Maybe getting ahead of yourself.
But the Triple Crown is definitely on 💀
Is Biggs still playing in Toulon?
I think the last game I remember going to at Eden Park when we v the Boks was back in 2013 when Duplessis got a red card for two yellow infringements which was a bullshit referring decision as it was a good tackle he made on Carter but it was a French ref so I wasn't really surprised. I cant wait for this years two matches v the Boks. Its about time we played them at Eden Park. I dont know why we hardly do because NZ generally have had it all over the Boks when we play them in NZ. I think the last time we lost to them at home was back in 2018. It might be because in NZ unlike other Northern Hemisphere countries we dont play all the test matches at one venue. There would be rioting in NZ if that happened as the smaller stadiums and provinces would never see an All Blacks test match and thats not how we roll. Our rugby is nothing without the support of the nation and that would be hard to come by if All Black tests werent shared around. Generally its always a mid year test and the Bledisloe Cup match that is played there as the Bledisloe cup is the most important trophy to kiwis besides the world cup. Kiwis already kicked up a stink back in 2017 when Eden Park hosted two Lions test matches as it was deemed unfair to the South Island to not host at least one so even though you would probably make more money having all tests at Eden Park I cant see it ever happening.
I remember even the commentators were surprised as that was a great tackle
The Du Plessis tackle on Carter stood the test of time, as it will be a legal tackle even today. The French ref bottled it and cost us any real chance of victory.
Remember those classic tests 2013/2014 at Joburg? Just incredible games. Still gutted for that red card. It was still a tight game, but just robbed us of another classic
Let's not forget that in that same year we saw one of the greatest games ever at Ellis park
Does the 6 nats want to have the same grand slam winner every year for the next 20 years?
Agree. That would upset the old boy Norther Hemisphere net work. The Rugby Championship is a great competition and now Aussie are improving under Joe Smit it will be even better. I think it will be close in 2025 but still pick the Boks (hard to say as a Kiwi) but the Boks are so strong and hard to beat, but we are on the rise.
They wouldn’t win every game in Dublin and Paris for the next 20 years 😂 how arrogant
Talking about the depth in the prem, you need to keep in mind some of the best players aren't eligible for the English. Best prop is a South African, Best lock is Samoan, Best centre's are Tongan and South African, Best winger is Argentinian, Best fullback is a cruise ship.
Best lock is Samoan 😂
"Predigast goes with BL....""Finn Smith hasn't had enough experience.....big leap between club and country".......😂 The 10 shirt is very interesting this 6 nations.
A Wales team of players that literally win 15% at a push of club games.. I don’t know where the motivation, confidence and desire to take that step up is there. I think until the regional sides improve the outlook for the national side is grim 😢
Great to see you all back Borthwick to get the sack after 6 nations
How about introducing everybody at the beginning, or are we supposed to know who they are? Egos at play!
2025 to see Netflix release another soulless 6N series
Really disliked Biggar as a player (no need to dwell on that) but he’s a superb pundit here. Very insightful, calm and huge knowledge. His point about the step up from club to international is so true.Some players just can’t make that step up. Some can. All part of the fun. Also worth saying that Tuipolotu is an amazing player, but it has taken him a few years to get there and at the start of his Scotland career he look decent but not as good as he does now. Toonie really does have a fine eye for such players…..
6N is historically the best tournament outside the WC in the world , no need to bring SA in. We dont want them 😂😂😂 thank you
My view, the players that Andy has at his disposal it would be a 3-0 to the Lions. Irish front row. Maybe a Scotsman Sandre Furgerson and definitely his brother in the mix. Loose forwards a hard choice. Calin Doris,, locks Mario,
Rory Darge. So many.to select and unbeatable
For a fair tournament we need: B&I Lions, NZ, SA.
I’m a Springbok fan and don’t want us to be in the 6N. Keep it in Europe,it a European tournament. I’d rather stay in the Championship.
Springboks instead of Italy in the 6 nations. I see the value.... I sees it wiff me eyes
Instead of Wales is more likely 😂
Most South Africans don't want it. No offence to the NH but its essential for the Boks success to continue playing NZ on a yearly basis.
Agree with Andy that France will win:
France
Ireland
Scotland
England
Italy
Wales
Dan is a great addition to the team
France in dublin .. fancy Ireland tbh
Ireland, France, Scotland, England, Wales and Italy.
Not a chance, there’s a better chance they’ll finish 3rd than 1st.
No Boks in 6 nations . From South Africa
SH is our home. We must always test ourselves against the ABs.
Think sa so good. But is 6 nations
NZ and Aus wanted Saffie clubs out of Super Rugby for over a decade. They whinged about travel, and the putting Arg & Japan in SA's pool was the last straw.
We want to be in Super Rugby, they kicked us out of it… thank you to the URC and Champions Cup for taking us and arguably NZ and AUS rugby needs us in Super Rugby as well
Were you kicked out or did you leave because you couldn't get what you wanted come on take those blinkers off your eyes and stop spraying shit.
If anyone joins the 6N for it to become the 7N it should be another Northern Hemisphere team. Georgia Portugal Canada USA ?
I as a leinster fan, I thank SAF for their Coach. I think the URC has benefitted. I think we should open up the 6 Nations. Wales have more chance of beating me at getting my right bins out on monday evening, bet they put the wrong colour out.... shhhh It's black bin and green bin, don't tell them... they'll still fxck it up and thats more on them. Bin juice side
I hope the ultra you decide to run, is the Comrades Marathon 😊
They will never let the Boks into the 6 Nations because the Boks just might win it. Just look at history - no new team that had a legitimate chance of winning the tournament was ever let in.
France officially joined in 1910 and first won it in 1954. Italy was let in in 2000 and they've never won it.
No other team with a legitimate chance of winning it have applied to join so you are talking mince.
SA in the 6 Nations is a terrible idea. I would definitely support a knockout tournament if Georgia could show the ability to host the fans and have the infrastructure. It would be nice to see the B&I lions do a home tour once every 4 years to fit in between the current schedule. We could host all 4 southern hemisphere teams as going on tour with the lions is a huge expense, completely out of reach for most fans.
Trust me we Saffas dont want to be there!!
The only benefit of SA joining the 6N is that their players who are based in Europe and in SA would no longer be playing a 12 month season, which is not sustainable. But you can’t see them leaving the Championship.
I though Andy Goode was a rugby influencer, had no idea he actually played rugby?
England flyhalf no less, with a lot of style too... Put some respect on his name 😂😂😂😂
@@tobokanisebele8919 nope does not ring a bell.
Ssudi/Qatari money will ruin the game for me. Two states with horrendous human rights violations trying to wash filthy money. It'd almost be as bad as Israeli money.
Zammit to return
FARK theres alot of misinformation around why the SA teams left Super. It wasnt because it got diluted and boring because the conference series was ideated to guarantee SA and Oz teams making the finals series because bar maybe the Stormers at the time the rest of the SA teams were year on year in the bottom 6.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with Super right now as the Kiwi derby's are real bell-ringers and with the Schmidt effect improving the Wallabies AND the Melbourne franchise gone giving each remaining Oz team more depth hopefully the finals series will be real Trans-Tasman battles of old.
Exactly. I’m a true Super rugby fan, and the amount of hate SR gets is outrageous and crazy.
If we were serious about SA joining, Georgia be joining too so everyone got a game every week. But the logistics of moving games to SA don’t make sense, and that’s already clear with the Champions Cup. Plus clubs will never go for losing their chaps for another 2/3 weeks.
No one that isnt in NH is joining
None of the 6 Nation teams can give the boks what the all blacks can they were and still is our best competition
It would be boring winning also the 6 N every year. Winning the World Cup every 4 years - on the other hand - isn’t boring.
Just like they win the championship every year right?
(5 times since 1996)
Under Rassie Boks stats vs NZ:
In NZ:
1 win
1 loss
1 draw
In SA:
3 wins
2 losses
In Aus: (Covid)
1 win
1 loss
Neutral:
2 wins
1 loss
Total:
7 wins
5 losses
1 draw
Points: (for/against)
Home:
128 for
116 against
In NZ:
72 for
85 against
Neutral:
108 for
89 against
Total:
308 for
290 against
If any team could do it presently, it would be Rassie managed Boks, but its certainly going to be tough and will take an almighty effort.
As much as Rassie has achieved in resurrecting and transforming the Bok game, playing NZ, in NZ, is very much still the challenge it always was, as Bok fan, just greatful, its proper competitive now, unlike the nonsense before him.
Always laughable to see people getting precious about the 6 nations. It was 4,then 5, now 6.
Why can't it expand/improve?
Italy, Wales and Scotland are hardly massive drawcards unless at home.
When was it 4?
Be careful, France always struggles at the start of the tournament. They are often fragile in the first two matches.
Thing is their first game in effect is a warm up game and ideal for them to start the tournament on the front foot. I think they have Ireland at home so i believe France will Slam beating England in Twickenham by 8pts
Super rugby did not benefit South African rugby or the style of the South African rugby, from a springboks fan it was the best thing ever happening that we left super rugby!
As a South African, I'd hate to be in the 6nations. If any team should join, it should be Goergia.
The last times SA played in Auckland were in 2001, 2010, 2013 and 2023. NZ won them all.
I'm a Springbok fan and definitely DO NOT want to see us join the 6 Nations!! Playing NZ, Australia and Argentina is far more entertaining and exciting - and it keeps us familiar with different playing styles and locations. The "best of both worlds" approach is what will help keep us at the top, because our players will have better exposure than any other nation's.
100%. Rugby Championship is still the toughest rugby competition on the planet outside of the RWC. Argentina's star is rising. Australia is turning a corner. Potentially. NZ want payback for a tough year. 2025 will be incredibly competitive. Going to be tough for the Boks to do it again. It needs to be tough. It what makes the SH strong.
England beat Wales during the “1st Golden Era” because the ‘Welsh Committee’ set the strategy and were too slow in over 100 years committees and coaches have not learned, when you pick a player based on club performance let him play do not restrict. The old saying ‘play what’s in front of you’ still relevant. Plans only valid till fit. Plan only valid until first contact!
Dirty money Jim 😂
Steve will not pick a team around Marcus, so he should pick Finn Smith at 10. I'd have picked Barnes ilo Andrew, and Cipreani ilo Farrell. I'd give Marcus a year picking the whole team to suit him. But Steve won't. A shame.
A 10 nations sounds more interesting nz, sa, Australia, Argentina, England, wales, Ireland, Scotland, France & Italy
Probably drop Wales and include Georgia. Team is on the upwards curve with a far better coach.
Boks wouldn't trade tests against The All Blacks for the 6 nations, never.
Money is why we in this shit. I watched money come in, in the 90s and they said it will be good for all rugby, grass roots and all. Now we pay $30 for a steak n cheese pie, chips can of coke and $180 ticket, to watch from the back. What a joke when you clowns sit there and ask for more money for the greedy...
The Only team from South Africa to Super Title is the Victor Matfields Bulls.
Lions, 1993 or 1994. Won the Super 10.
Buy the cheetahs, buy the FS Cheetahs!
I fully agree super rugby is where it all happened super rugby players
The AB’s are going to be back. I guarantee you that