Nations Pod Guide: Dublin

Nations Pod Guide: Dublin

Author: BBC Radio 5 Live January 29, 2026 Duration: 42:45

The fourth and final stop on the Nations Pod Guide is Ireland’s Fair City. From Croke Park to the Aviva, from Temple Bar to Ballsbridge - Chris, Tom and GRO discuss what makes Dublin special and so much more than a rugby city. Tom teaches us about Ross O’Carroll-Kelly, we get the lowdown on his favourite Dublin pubs and playwrights, and he even recites some poetry! But it’s not all highbrow conversation, we get stuck into Temple Bar, the Guinness and what’s it like on Paddy’s Day during a Six Nations weekend. How does the Aviva’s atmosphere compare to the other home nations’ stadiums? And what is the greatest achievement in Irish rugby history? Plus, we revisit England’s visit to Lansdowne Road in 2003 and the cultural and historical significance of their match at Croke Park in 2007.


From the heart of the action to the analysis in its aftermath, Rugby Union Weekly delivers the definitive sound of the sport. Produced by BBC Radio 5 Live, this podcast offers more than just match summaries; it’s a deep, engaging conversation about the strategies, stories, and personalities shaping rugby. During major events like the 2026 Men's Six Nations, the show shifts to a daily format, ensuring you’re always up to date with immediate reaction, breaking news, and insightful interviews with the game’s biggest figures. Each episode feels like pulling up a chair in a lively discussion, where the passion for rugby is palpable. You’ll hear expert breakdowns of pivotal moments, thoughtful debates on contentious decisions, and a genuine connection to the pulse of the tournament. Beyond the daily updates, the podcast provides comprehensive weekend reviews that tie the entire narrative together. It’s this blend of timely reporting and reflective analysis that makes the podcast a staple for fans. Tune in not just for the scores, but for the context and camaraderie that only a dedicated rugby conversation can provide. Your perspective is part of the mix too, with the team welcoming interaction from listeners throughout the season.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Rugby Union Weekly
Podcast Episodes
The Nations Pod [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:01:49
It's Nations Pod time and for the second week in a row Tom is reeling from another painful defeat for Scotland. After the capitulation against Argentina he believes now is the time for a new head coach. Wales are off the…
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Duration: 56:23
Are England now ready to win silverware? Why do Scotland keep choking on the big stage? Does the new Nations Championship devalue the World Cup? There is loads to discuss following another eventful weekend and the launch…
England topple the All Blacks for 10th straight win [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:58
Chris is with Matt Dawson and Paul Grayson to bring you reaction to England's first victory over the All Blacks at home in 13 years. We chat to the superb George Ford who dropped two goals and scored a crucial penalty to…
The Nations Pod [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:57
It’s Nations Pod time ahead of the third weekend of the autumn internationals. Tom is still reeling from Scotland’s narrow defeat by New Zealand, calling it the greatest missed opportunity in Scottish rugby history. But…
Ford and Steward return as England load the bench again [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 54:12
Are England capable of beating the All Blacks for the first time since 2019? And is this side ready to take a big scalp? Ashy and Chris head to the England team hotel and chat to Steve Borthwick about his selection which…
'Boks Office' drama in Paris and England's quest for 10 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:48
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England see off dangerous Fiji to set up All Blacks clash [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:42
England have now won nine Test matches in a row after they finished strongly to beat Fiji 38-18 in Twickenham and set up a huge meeting with New Zealand next weekend. Chris, Matt Dawson and Paul Grayson react on-the-whis…
The Nations Pod [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 59:56
Is Saturday’s game at Murrayfield Scotland’s best ever opportunity to beat the All Blacks? And what would count as a good autumn for Wales? Just some of the questions that Chris, Tom and Gareth tackle ahead of busy weeke…
The 'Pom Squad' and Ireland’s Chicago blues [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 59:16
Which England player is compared to an annoying little brother? Ugo, Danny and Chris praise England's gameplan against Australia and heap praise on Sale's Tom Roebuck. Was it a red? Should it have even been a yellow? We…
England battle past 'woeful' Australia [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:10
England begin their autumn campaign with victory over Australia and extend their winning run to eight matches. Chris is back on the pod with Ashy and Matt Dawson to pick through a contest that was close until the hour ma…