Slade, semi-finals & send-offs

Slade, semi-finals & send-offs

Author: BBC Radio 5 Live June 8, 2026 Duration: 54:38

Exeter are into the Prem play-offs and Ugo, Ashy and Danny are joined by Henry Slade to reflect on a memorable win over Saracens, and the Chiefs’ remarkable transformation. Slade also discusses his outstanding form after ending the regular season finishing as the league’s top points scorer. We also break down the final round of the Premiership season, including Bath securing a home semi-final thanks to Thomas du Toit’s try-scoring exploits. With Northampton hosting Leicester and Bath welcoming Exeter, will we get an away win in the play-offs this weekend? Plus, it's report card time for those teams that didn’t make the play-offs. We also round up the URC semi-finals after Glasgow’s dramatic collapse against the Bulls, discuss Leinster’s latest shot at silverware, and react to Andy Farrell committing to Ireland until 2031.


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
Nations Pod Guide: Dublin [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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…
The Last McCall [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:56
As the Premiership heads into its mid-season break, Ugo and Ashy look back on a packed weekend of action. They start with one of the games of the season as Bath edged Gloucester at Kingsholm, with Charlie Atkinson outsta…
England’s Six Nations squad with Steve Borthwick [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:49
Ashy and Chris are in the player’s gym at Twickenham to dissect England’s Six Nations squad and chat to head coach Steve Borthwick. He talks through his picks at tighthead and calling up Exeter number eight Greg Fisilau.…
Nations Pod Guide: Edinburgh [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:35
The next stop on the Nations Pod Guide is Edinburgh. GRO teaches Chris and Tom a Max Boyce classic and explains why the trip to the Scottish capital is so special for Wales fans. After initially declaring he doesn’t have…
Champions Cup draw and Razor’s departure [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 53:46
Ugo, Danny and Ashy reflect on the final round of pool matches in the Champions Cup as Quins stole headlines by knocking out two-time winners La Rochelle. Glasgow qualified with a 100% record to guarantee home advantage…
Nations Pod Guide: Twickenham [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:41
Chris, Tom and GRO are back for the second instalment of the Nation’s pod guide and this time they’re talking about the home of English rugby - Twickenham. Is it still the one scalp that all teams want in the Six Nations…
The Willis derby and Gloucester’s mortgage advisor [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:11
Danny, Ugo and Chris review an eventful Champions Cup weekend that produced another big upset after Saracens stunned six-time champions Toulouse. They reflect on the battle between the two Willis brothers and if the resu…
Nations Pod Guide: Cardiff [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:06
What makes a great Six Nations city? Is it all about the atmosphere on match day? The stadium itself? Or more about the pubs and the nightlife? In this special mini-series, Chris, Gareth and Tom bring you their ultimate…
A statement weekend [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:55
It’s the first pod of 2026 and there is plenty to discuss with club statements and statement performances on the pitch. Chris, Ashy and Ugo look at what we can and assess the runners and riders ahead of the Six Nations w…
The Nations Pod: Review of the Year [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:01:12
After years of podding separately in Cardiff, Stirling and London - Chris, Tom and GRO finally get together to record a Nations Pod in person. They look back at the highs and lows of the game in 2025 which included the L…