The Nations Pod

The Nations Pod

Author: BBC Radio 5 Live March 10, 2026 Duration: 1:08:02

Chris, Tom and GRO bring you a bumper preview of what promises to be an epic Super Saturday. Can Scotland win a first Six Nations title? They will have to end their Ireland hoodoo without a host of starters including pod favourite Gregor Brown. Chris dials in from Verona to bring you the latest from the England camp after that chastening defeat to Italy. Will we see a different gameplan from Steve Borthwick’s side in Paris? What did the Maro Itoje clash with Fin Smith say about where this England team is at? Rhys Carre is inspiring the next generation of Wales players after his superb solo try in Dublin. Are Wales ready to end their run of wooden spoons? What characteristics did we see that was reminiscent of Gatland’s golden generation?


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: 303

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

Duration: 57:10
Do we now know Andy Farrell's Test team? Chris, Gareth Rhys Owen and Tom English assemble for the Nations pod take on the Farrell's 23 for the Brumbies game on Wednesday. Who is in need of a a big performance in Canberra…
Unconvincing Lions beat Waratahs [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:20
Chris Jones and Chris Ashton dissect the Lions 21-10 win over the New South Wales Waratahs.The Lions remain unbeaten but weren’t impressive in their win over the New South Waratahs in Sydney. Two weeks before the first t…
Warburton’s Lions Legends: Martin Johnson [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:52
Sam Warburton and Martin Johnson are the only players to captain the British & Irish Lions on back-to-back tours. So for this episode they sit down together to discuss their incredible achievement. They talk leadership,…
Farrell picks Farrell [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:20
Has bloodline loyalty influenced Owen Farrell’s Lions call-up? Coach Andy Farrell has drafted in his son to replace the injured Elliot Daly, sparking debate over whether family ties played a role. Chris, Danny and Tom un…
Lions run in eight tries to thrash Queensland Reds [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:46
Is Andy Farrell closing in on his Test XV? The Lions ran in eight tries in a dominant 52-12 win over the Queensland Reds, with Tommy Freeman grabbing a brace. Chris and former Scotland captain John Barclay dissect the pe…
The Nations Pod [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 48:26
How big a blow is Tomos Williams’ injury to the Lions as he’s ruled out of the tour? And with so few nailed on starters for the first Test, should alarm bells be ringing? Tom, Chris and Gareth tackle those questions as t…
Lions Top 10s: Moments [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:31
What is the greatest moment in a Lions Test? Matt Dawson and Jamie Roberts join Chris to rank those iconic moments that every Lions fan will remember. Is Jeremy Guscott’s drop goal better than JPR Williams’? Which player…
Lions thrash Western Force but Williams injured [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:55
Ugo Monye & correspondent Chris Jones reflect on The British and Irish Lions eight-try win over Western Force in the first game of their tour on Australian soil. Plus BBC Sport reporter Lauren Jenkins joins the pod live…
Lions Icons - The Nations Pod Debrief [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:13
Chris, Tom and Gareth share their thoughts on the Lions Top 10 episode about icons. Were there any glaring omissions? Was it right that Brian O'Driscoll missed out? The guys have plenty to say, and share their thoughts o…
Borthwick on England, The Lions and Owen Farrell [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:35
Was Owen Farrell ever in contention for England’s summer tour to Argentina and the US? England head coach Steve Borthwick joins Chris and Danny to reveal all, and to outline what he expects from his young squad over the…