Episode 20: The Rugby Championship and Women's World Cup

How did Rugby Union make its way to the southern hemisphere? How does the game down south differ from the bruising northern style? And why, exactly, are New Zealand so damn good at it?

This week, we’re serving up a double helping of rugby. With the Rugby Championship kicking off this weekend and the Red Roses gearing up for their date with destiny next Friday, Ben dives headfirst into the pinnacle of southern hemisphere rugby, while Jack takes a quick look at the rise of the women’s game and the teams to watch at this year's World Cup.

There’s an unexpected shortage of English bias… swiftly undone by some unprovoked Jonny Wilkinson fawning. But Ben also waxes lyrical about the only man he rates higher than Wilko - one Daniel Carter - while both of us get misty eyed over the unstoppable force, icon and legend that was Jonah Lomu.

For newcomers, Jack crams everything you need to know about Rugby Union into a breathless three-minute bit for no reason whatsoever. For the seasoned fans, there’s plenty too - from Kiwis looking to snatch their crown back from South Africa, to Wallabies just praying to finish above Argentina, and England’s burning quest for revenge against the Black Ferns… with Canada waiting in the wings.

The Rugby autumn starts here - buckle up and enjoy the ride.