About this episode
On the eve of the Rugby Championship, host David Pembroke is joined by former Wallaby coach Ewen McKenzie and coaching veteran Eddie Jones for a broad discussion about the challenges of high performance and on field battles ahead. From the high-speed precision of Formula One pit crews to the brutal grind of Ellis Park, they unpack what “alignment” means in elite sport – and why it’s so hard to achieve. Ewen relives the home-and-away mindset in French rugby, Eddie compares cultural quirks from Japan to South Africa, and both share what it takes to win in the most hostile Rugby stadium on earth. The focus sharpens on the Wallabies’ trip to Johannesburg. Selection gambles. Set-piece warfare. The Springboks’ predictable-yet-devastating blueprint. Can Australia’s big men – Skelton, Tupou, Valetini – go the distance? And will referee sensitivities to social media change the way the contest is called? The conversation ranges across the rugby globe: · The All Blacks’ challenge in Córdoba against an unpredictable Argentina. · The fight to restore Welsh rugby’s pride and the Scarlets’ bold new backers. · The looming Women’s Rugby World Cup in England, and the gulf in investment between northern and southern hemispheres. It’s insight, history, tactics, and hard truths – from three men who’ve been there and done it at the highest level. Want more from Rugby Unity? Subscribe to our Substack for exclusive content, blogs, behind-the-scenes insights, tour guides, and full podcast access — all in one place: Rugby Unity | Substack One sport. Millions of voices. This is Rugby Unity. 📧 Get in touch: info@rugbyunity.com.au TikTok | Instagram | YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.