Rugby Union Weekly

Ugo Monye, John Barclay and Chris Ashton delve into all the big talking points from an action packed opening week of the Six Nations.
Week one had everything – dramatic losses, freak weather storms and unexpected results.
It proved to be a difficult day in Rome for John as his former side lost in a shock defeat against Italy – John reveals how “gutted” he was.
Ashy was channel hopping between Paris and London – as he witnessed French dominance against Ireland and England’s confident win over Wales.
We also get the latest news on Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, who has been ruled out of the match against Scotland next weekend and is in danger of missing the entire Six Nations.
The big questions get asked too, from what does the future hold for Gregor Townsend, to how dominant can this French side become, and what’s next for Wales?

Henry Arundell scored a 35-minute hat-trick as England made it 12 wins in a row and heaped more misery on Wales. Was that a statement from England? How good is the depth of Steve Borthwick’s side? Where do Wales go from here after yet another setback on the field? Chris chats to World Cup winners Matt Dawson and Paul Grayson along with Grand Slam winner Alex Cuthbert to discuss all this and more. You will also hear from Ben Earl, who praised England’s relentless display, and Wales head coach Steve Tandy who lamented his team’s poor discipline.

France made the perfect start to the defence of their Six Nations title as they toppled Ireland in Paris. Chris is joined by Irish Grand Slam winner Donncha O’Callaghan and Ashy to reflect on a statement victory on the opening night of the tournament and the growing strength of French rugby. What has happened to Ireland’s attack? Is the jury still out on whether Sam Prendergast should have the keys to the Ireland number 10 shirt? We also look ahead to Saturday’s games as Wales and Scotland name their teams.

To mark the opening day of the tournament, Chris and John Barclay are chatting all of the Six Nations captains. You’ll hear from the great Antoine Dupont as France kick things off in Paris. We hear from his opposite number Caelan Doris on Ireland’s difficult prep ahead of the opener in Paris. England’s vice-captain Jamie George talks about the feel-good factor around England as they look to continue their winning run. Dewi Lake speaks openly about the difficulties facing Wales as they head into the tournament looking to avoid a third successive wooden spoon. Michele Lamaro chats about sailing, the Olympics, and Italy’s hopes for 2026. And finally, there is Sione Tuipulotu who is chomping at the bit to captain Scotland for the first time in the Six Nations and banish any painful memories from the autumn.

Are France really clear favourites? And how real is Ireland’s decline? Chris, Gareth and Tom are back as this year’s Six Nations gets underway on Thursday. Tom argues this is a huge opportunity for Scotland and asks why they shouldn’t aspire to be outstanding. Gareth is less optimistic about Wales, though he believes they still have a couple of genuine match-winners. The guys run the rule over all six sides and ask what success looks like for each. And Chris has been left a little frustrated folowing the release of the World Cup schedule this week.