Aotearoa Rugby Pod

David Havili is back in the All Blacks conversation.

Dropped by Scott Robertson in 2024 and largely forgotten in the midfield debate, the Crusaders captain reminded everyone of his quality with a match-winning display against the Chiefs.

The Aotearoa Rugby Pod asks whether the 30-test veteran could force his way back into national selection this season.

The crew also dives into:

• Super Rugby Pacific’s tightening top six race
• The teams most likely to surge late
• And one of the toughest selection calls imaginable:

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What is B.I.G.G.A — and why does Dave Rennie value it so highly?

Bryn Hall and James Parsons explain “Back In Game, Go Again,” a Dave Rennie work-rate metric that shapes his selections.

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Their attack is electric, their defence has tightened, and they’re winning games in multiple ways.

So the big question is: who can actually stop the Hurricanes, now they most likely have home advantage through the playoffs?

There appears to be one major contender and one dark horse.

The ARP crew also breaks down the top six contenders with two rounds to go until the playoffs.

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The Aotearoa Rugby Pod team debates whether Richie Mo'unga should return from Japan and immediately into the All Blacks.

Would changing overseas eligibility policies strengthen New Zealand rugby or undermine the system?

The crew also unpack B.I.G.G.A, the Dave Rennie work-rate metric and how it could shape future All Blacks selections. Could it make Lucas Casey a great option?

Plus, the Hurricanes beating the Blues and James Parsons' tense post-match exchange with Vern Cotter.

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Black Ferns and Blues co-captain Ruahei Demant has experienced the other side!

A sabbatical to English club Bristol has taught her plenty about rugby in the home of the World Cup champions. She has returned home with new knowledge and a desire to use it to help the Blues defend their Aupiki title.

She chats with Aotearoa Rugby Pod about...

• What she learnt playing for Bristol Bears Women in England’s PWR
• How overseas rugby challenged and improved her game
• The secrets she learnt about Canada's success
• What’s already changed under new Black Ferns coach Whitney Hansen
• Young stars Amarante Sititi and Braxton Sorenson-McGee
• The stacked Blues Women squad ahead of their Super Rugby Aupiki defence

A great insight into the growth of the women’s game globally and where New Zealand rugby is heading next.

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