Scrum V

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The latest news, views and interviews from the world of Welsh rugby.

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Published 2026-05-18

Where next for Wales

49 min
Open

Gareth and Lauren are joined by former Wales internationals Siwan Lillicrap and James Hook to reflect on another winless Women's Six Nations campaign for Wales and ask can Cardiff do the double over Stormers in the United Rugby Championship play-offs.

Published 2026-05-11

Wales squad announced for summer games

47 min
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Wales head coach Steve Tandy joins Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Salter to discuss his squad for the summer matches against the Barbarians, Fiji, Argentina and South Africa. Former Wales captain Philippa Tuttiett joins to review Wales' loss to Ireland in Belfast in the Women's Six Nations and discuss the permutations as Cardiff look to secure Champions Cup rugby next season.

Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Salter are joined by former Wales internationals James Hook and Philippa Tuttiett to reflect on Wales' improved performance in defeat to England, the weekend's United Rugby Championship results including Cardiff's derby win over Ospreys and the team are joined by Dragons defence coach Dale McLeod to preview Sunday's European Challenge Cup Semi-Final in Montpellier

Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Salter are joined by former Wales internationals Scott Baldwin and Philippa Tuttiett to reflect on the weekend's United Rugby Championship results and Wales' Women's Six Nations defeat to France. Cardiff secured a dramatic late comeback win at Scarlets, Ospreys had an impressive win over Sharks but Dragons were humbled by Bulls. While France produced a second-half power show to shrug off a resilient Wales side.

In the wake of a tense and at times fractious Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) Extraordinary General Meeting at Principality Stadium, Chief Executive Abi Tierney sits down to address the biggest questions facing Welsh rugby. With controversial plans to reduce the professional game from four teams to three still unresolved, and no clear agreement yet with Cardiff Rugby, Ospreys, Scarlets and Dragons, Tierney explains why the WRU believes change cannot wait.

Published 2026-04-07

C'est magnifique

43 min
Open

Gareth and Lauren are joined by former Wales internationals Richie Rees and James Hook to celebrate the Dragons European Challenge Cup win over Stade Francais in Paris, and reflect on some contentious TMO decisions in defeat for Cardiff and Ospreys.

Published 2026-03-23

An alternative plan for Welsh rugby?

68 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Salter are joined by former Wales fly-half James Hook and former chief operating officer of Principality Building Society Rob Regan to review the weekend's United Rugby Championship results and discuss an alternative plan for the future of Welsh rugby. The team also speak with Swansea Council leader Rob Stewart about their ongoing legal battle with the Welsh Rugby Union.

Lauren Salter is joined by former Wales international James Hook, Scrum V writer Gareth Griffiths and Welsh Rugby Union director of rugby Dave Reddin after Wales' 31-17 win against Italy. Steve Tandy's side ended their Six Nations campaign on a high with an impressive win over Italy, ending a three-year Six Nations losing streak. The team reflect on Wales' first win in the competition in 1,099 days, assess Tandy's impact as head coach and discuss the latest with the union's plans to cut a region.

Published 2026-03-13

Scrum V Top 5: Nigel Owens

62 min
Open

Comedian and actor Mike Bubbins welcomes former referee Nigel Owens to his bar. Regarded as one of the great referees of the game, Nigel will be revealing his favourite five and six nations matches.

Warning: contains themes around suicide Support is available here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline/

Published 2026-03-02

Scrum V Top5: Glenn Webbe

61 min
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Comedian and actor Mike Bubbins welcomes a cult hero of Welsh rugby to his bar, Glenn Webbe. Glenn was the first British player to score a hat trick in a World Cup and now heads to Mike’s bar to discuss his top 5 wingers.

Warning: contains themes of racism. Help is available here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline/

Published 2026-02-13

Tandy makes changes for France game

31 min
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Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Salter are joined by Scrum V commentator Cennydd Davies and former Wales wing Alex Cuthbert at the Vale to discuss Steve Tandy's team selection for Sunday's Six Nations match with France. Wales have brought in Scarlets centre Joe Hawkins and Leicester number eight Olly Cracknell as part of four personnel changes to the team thrashed by England.

Published 2026-02-09

Scrum V Top 5: Gavin Henson

63 min
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Comedian and actor Mike Bubbins welcomes one of Wales’s most talented and mercurial players to the bar, Gavin Henson. For years, Gavin has avoided the spotlight, but now he enters Mike’s bar to discuss his top five most admired players.

Published 2026-01-26

What does the future hold for Ospreys?

54 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Salter are joined by former Wales and Ospreys fly-half James Hook and Scrum V writer Gareth Griffiths to discuss what’s next for Ospreys. As Wales begin their preparations for the Six Nations the focus is very much on off-the-field issues after the Welsh Rugby Union confirmed Ospreys owners, Y11 Sport and Media, are the preferred option to buy Cardiff. The team reflect on another seismic week in Welsh rugby, the weekend's United Rugby Championship results and look ahead to the Six Nations.

Published 2026-01-20

More chaos in Welsh rugby

36 min
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Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Salter are joined by former Wales international Alex Cuthbert and Scrum V writer Gareth Griffiths at the Vale to discuss another seismic day for Welsh rugby. Steve Tandy's first Six Nations squad announcement was overshadowed by rugby politics following the Welsh Rugby Union's announcement that they are entering a "period of exclusivity" with potential new owners for Cardiff. With Ospreys’ owners Y11 Sport & Media understood to be the preferred bidders, the team discuss the prospective takeover, what that could mean for Ospreys, as well as the squad announcement.

Published 2026-01-08

The Warm Up: 'We're all gutted he's going'

42 min
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Lauren Salter is joined by former Wales internationals Jonathan Davies and Ellis Jenkins as well as Wales and Dragons prop Dillon Lewis who reacts to Aaron Waingwright leaving the region for Leicester Tigers at the end of the season. The team also look back on the festive derbies, look ahead to round three of the Champions and Challenge Cup and give their early picks for Six Nations selection.

Lauren Salter and former Wales internationals Gareth Delve and Richie Rees reflect on the weekend’s United Rugby Championship results including another win for the Dragons and a derby victory for Scarlets. Dragons climbed off the bottom of the table with a remarkable 48-28 victory over Connacht, ending a 15-month winless streak in the URC. Meanwhile, Scarlets won the first Welsh derby of the festive season after beating Cardiff 21-17 at the Arms Park, but Ospreys suffered a 26-10 defeat at home to Munster, meaning they’ll be bottom of the league at Christmas.

Published 2025-12-15

Wales captains to leave Ospreys

46 min
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Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Salter are joined by ex-Dragons winger Ashton Hewitt and former Wales captain Siwan Lillicrap to discuss the news that Wales captains Jac Morgan and Dewi Lake will leave Ospreys at the end of the season to join Gloucester.

The team also reflect on a successful weekend for Welsh sides in Europe with three of the four regions winning their games, including a first victory of the year for Dragons, and they preview the start of the Celtic Challenge this weekend.

Published 2025-12-10

Jonah Lomu at Cardiff - 20 years on

46 min
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Scrum V looks back at Jonah Lomu’s debut for Cardiff 20 years ago and the impact rugby’s first global superstar made at the Arms Park. Former Cardiff team-mate Xavier Rush shares his memories of that remarkable period, while ex-Wales captain Kingsley Jones — whose father, Phil Kingsley Jones, who discovered and managed Lomu for years — reflects on the moment Lomu burst onto the world stage as a 20-year-old at the 1995 World Cup.

Published 2025-11-06

The Warm Up: A Fresh Start

40 min
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Lauren Salter is joined by Jonathan Davies, Ross Moriarty and Ellis Jenkins to preview Wales’ opening match of the autumn campaign against Argentina.  They also discuss coach Steve Tandy’s fresh approach and recount their experiences of facing Argentina.

Lauren Salter is joined by ex-Wales wing Alex Cuthbert, former Dragons wing Ashton Hewitt and rugby journalist Alex Bywater to discuss the fallout from the Welsh Rugby Union's decision to cut one professional team by 2027. The team also reflect on the weekend's United Rugby Championship results. Dragons missed out on the opportunity to win their first league game in over a year after they were held by the Ospreys, Cardiff maintained their great start with a win against Edinburgh but Scarlets remain bottom after another defeat in South Africa.

Published 2025-10-13

Tom Bowen for Wales?

31 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen and former Wales fly-halves James Hook and Elinor Snowsill discuss the weekend’s United Rugby Championship (URC) results and preview the Wales squad selection ahead of the autumn internationals. It was a weekend of stark contrast for the Welsh regions in the URC - Cardiff and Ospreys enjoyed hard-fought victories, but Scarlets and Dragons lost without scoring a single point. The team also discuss whether in-form young Cardiff winger Tom Bowen should be selected in the Wales squad.

Gareth Rhys Owen is joined by former Wales wing Alex Cuthbert and ex-Ospreys head coach Sean Holley to discuss the weekend's United Rugby Championship (URC) results.

Dragons finally put an end to their URC losing streak but Cardiff and Ospreys both suffered defeats, while Scarlets' match was postponed due to Storm Amy.

We also hear from former Scotland captain and motor neuron disease (MND) campaigner Rob Wainwright following ex-England captain Lewis Moody’s MND diagnosis.

Published 2025-09-11

The Warm Up: 'It's a wig, that's why!'

35 min
Open

Lauren Jenkins is joined by former Wales international Philippa Tuttiett, broadcaster Claire Thomas and former Wales fly-half James Hook to review Wales’ performances in the Women’s Rugby World Cup and react to the news that Harlequins head coach Danny Wilson will join Steve Tandy's Wales coaching staff.

Published 2025-09-04

The Warm Up: Playing for pride

34 min
Open

As Wales prepare to face the final challenge of a difficult World Cup campaign, Lauren Jenkins is joined by former Wales internationals Ellis Jenkins, Philippa Tuttiett and Siwan Lillicrap to discuss the highs and lows of the competition and look ahead to Wales v Fiji.

Lauren Jenkins is joined by former Wales internationals Philippa Tuttiett and Siwan Lillicrap to review Saturday’s 38-8 defeat to Scotland in their World Cup opener. Sean Lynn’s side conceded six tries as they lost to Scotland by a record score. The result means Wales realistically need to beat Canada, the second best team in the world, to progress to the knockouts.

Published 2025-08-20

Scrum V – Wales Rugby Special

40 min
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Lauren Jenkins is joined by Alex Cuthbert, Jonathan Davies and Ashton Hewitt for their reaction to the Welsh Rugby Union's plans for the future of Welsh rugby. The Union say cutting the number of professional clubs from four to two is the "radical step" needed to save the game in Wales.

Published 2025-08-20

Another seismic day in Welsh rugby

39 min
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Lauren Jenkins and Matt Lloyd are at the Principality Stadium as the Welsh Rugby Union announces its plans for the future of Welsh rugby. We hear from WRU director of rugby Dave Reddin as the governing body insists that cutting the number of professional clubs from four to two is the "radical step" needed to save the game in Wales.

Lauren Jenkins, former Wales internationals and British and Irish Lions Alex Cuthbert and Tom Shanklin, and BBC rugby union correspondent Chris Jones look back at the win in the second test against Australia which clinched the series, and preview the third and final test on Saturday. The Lions are looking to leave Australia with a 3-0 series win and a 9-0 tour. It would be the first time the Lions have won every game in a multi-Test series since Argentina in 1927. The team also discuss Steve Tandy's appointment as Wales head coach and the state of the game in Wales.

Published 2025-07-21

Wales appoint Steve Tandy as head coach

29 min
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Lauren Jenkins, BBC Wales rugby reporter Gareth Griffiths and Daily Mail rugby reporter Alex Bywater discuss Steve Tandy's appointment as Wales head coach and hear from WRU chief executive Abi Tierney and performance director Dave Reddin about the recruitment process and the next steps for Welsh rugby.

Published 2025-07-14

Could Wales lose two regions?

19 min
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Gareth Rhys Owen and Matt Lloyd explain the Welsh Rugby Union’s latest proposals for structural change as they consider halving the number of regions in Wales. The governing body says it’s entering a formal consultation with the Professional Rugby Board (PRB) and could reduce the number of regions to three or even two. In a statement, the WRU said the current system is failing and is unsustainable, having already confirmed it does not intend to continue equally funding four professional teams in the men's game. Cardiff, Dragons, Ospreys and Scarlets are the four current sides, with the WRU saying it wants a "more radical" strategy to be completed by October.

Gareth Rhys Owen and former Wales internationals Gwyn Jones and James Hook react to Wales' 31-22 win against Japan as they end their 18-match losing streak. Wales held on for a first international win in 644 days as they levelled the series at 1-1 in Kobe. Fly-half Dan Edwards scored 16 of Wales' 31 points on his first start as Wales got their first win since Georgia in the 2023 World Cup.

Gareth Rhys Owen is joined by Gareth Griffiths in Japan and Lauren Jenkins in Australia as they discuss Wales’ second test against Japan and the British and Irish Lions’ final warmup match. Fly-half Dan Edwards makes his first start for Wales as interim head coach Matt Sherratt makes four changes to the team that was beaten in Kitakyushu last Saturday, while number eight Taulupe Faletau misses out through injury. Wales are looking to avoid becoming the first tier one rugby nation in history to suffer 19 successive international defeats. Meanwhile, Wales back row Jac Morgan starts at seven for the Lions as they take on an invitational Australia and New Zealand side in their last warm-up match on Saturday.

Gareth Rhys Owen is joined by former Wales internationals James Hook and Rhys Patchell to react to Wales’ 24-19 defeat to Japan in Kitakyushu as their losing run is extended to 18 games. It’s a second victory for Japan against Wales with head coach Eddie Jones also masterminding the first win in 2013. The defeat means Wales have fallen to a new low as they search for a first Test win in 21 months. Wales have slipped two places to an all-time low of 14th in the world rankings, below Japan and Samoa.

Published 2025-07-03

Sherratt names team for first Japan test

36 min
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Gareth Rhys Owen is joined by Lauren Jenkins from Australia and Gareth Griffiths from Japan to preview Wales' first test against Japan and the British and Irish Lions versus the Waratahs. We hear from Wales boss Matt Sherratt and Japan head coach Eddie Jones who've been speaking with the BBC ahead of Saturday's match in Kitakyushu, while Lauren brings us the latest from the Lions camp as head coach Andy Farrell calls up his son, Owen, as replacement for the injured Elliot Daly.

Coverage: Watch Japan v Wales live on BBC One Wales and BBC iPlayer; listen live on BBC Radio Wales, BBC Radio Cymru & BBC Sounds; text commentary and highlights on BBC Sport website and app.

Published 2025-06-25

Lions arrive in Australia

37 min
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Lauren Jenkins, Gareth Rhys Owen, and former British and Irish Lions wing Alex Cuthbert look ahead to the Lions’ first match in Australia against Western Force on Saturday. From Perth, Lauren has arrived after a long flight and has been catching up with members of the squad as they prepare for the opening game.

Published 2025-06-24

In camp with Wales Under-20s

37 min
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Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Jenkins head into camp with the Wales Under-20's as they prepare to head to Italy for the World Championship where they will face Argentina, France and Spain in Pool B. Head coach Richard Whiffin and a host of players join the pod to chat about their hopes and expectations ahead of their opening fixture on Sunday against Argentina.

Published 2025-06-17

Wales get set for Japan

42 min
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Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins, and Rhys Patchell head into Wales camp as they prepare for their summer tour of Japan. Fly-half Sam Costelow joins the podcast to offer insight into the team’s preparations and share what it truly means to wear the number ten jersey. After a season with Green Rockets Tokatsu, Rhys provides a special perspective on Japanese rugby and explains what Wales must do to end their 17-match losing streak.

Published 2025-06-11

Where Next for Welsh Rugby?

57 min
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Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins and BBC Rugby writer Gareth Griffiths evaluate a way forward for the professional game in Wales with the Welsh Rugby Union still in dispute with Ospreys and Scarlets over funding. WalesOnline Rugby Correspondent Steffan Thomas discusses exactly how the direction of Welsh rugby will be shaped this summer while Welsh Rugby Players Association chairman Ashton Hewitt speaks about uncertainties facing the players.

Published 2025-06-04

The big review of the season

65 min
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Former Wales fly-half James Hook and BBC Sport Wales rugby writer Gareth Griffiths join Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Jenkins to look back on the 2024-25 season for Wales' regions. They pick their player of the season and their breakthrough player of the season and also argue over their regional team from the campaign.

Published 2025-05-19

A regional cull?

38 min
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Gareth and Lauren are joined by former Wales international Ellis Jenkins to discuss the potential threat of losing another regional team while Josh McLeod, fresh from arriving home from South Africa, reflects on the Scarlets making the URC play-offs

Published 2025-05-01

Lions selection comittee

70 min
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Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Jenkins are joined by BBC Scotland's chief sportswriter Tom English and former Ireland international Bernard Jackman to pick a British and Irish Lions squad to tour Australia this summer. Ahead of next Thursday's official announcement, the four select a squad of 37 players consisting of 21 forwards and 16 backs... but how many Welshmen will make the cut?

Gareth and Lauren are joined by former Wales international James Hook and broadcaster Laura-Jane Jones to look back at a weekend of both highs and lows for Welsh rugby.

Cardiff, Scarlets and Ospreys are still in the chase for the URC play-offs after impressive wins - but Sean Lynn's Wales women's side suffered another heavy defeat in the Six Nations and they take the wooden spoon once again.

Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Jenkins head to the Principality Stadium for a sit down with new Welsh Rugby Union director of rugby Dave Reddin and WRU chief executive Abi Tierney. Reddin speaks about his vision for the game in Wales and the immediate tasks he faces which includes helping to appoint a permanent head coach for the Wales men's team to replace Warren Gatland.

Published 2025-04-22

Wales target Tandy for head coach role

33 min
Open

Lauren Jenkins is joined by Alex Cuthbert and Siwan Lillicrap to discuss Steve Tandy as the current Scotland defence coach emerges as the Welsh Rugby Union's target for the vacant Wales head coach position. They also review Wales' 40-14 defeat to Ireland in round four of the Women's Six Nations and a high-scoring Judgement Day with wins for Cardiff and Scarlets.

Published 2025-04-17

“I thought Olly Murs was coming in…”

45 min
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Lauren Jenkins, Ellis Jenkins and Jonathan Davies are joined by the recently retired Ollie Griffiths to reflect on his career, discuss his health issues that led to him giving up the game at 29. The team also preview a busy weekend of action as Judgement Day looms for the four Welsh sides and Wales face Ireland in the Women’s Six Nations.

Published 2025-04-10

Another new dawn

53 min
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WRU top dogs Abi Tierney and Richard Collier-Keywood sit down with Gareth Rhys Owen to reveal their vision for the future of Welsh rugby.

Up to 20 jobs could go as the Union implements a restructure aimed at saving £5m a year to make the professional game in Wales financially stable.

Tierney also reveals they are close to appointing a new Director of Rugby and have already spoken to potential candidates to be their next men's head coach.

Published 2025-04-08

Cardiff set for administration

33 min
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Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Jenkins react to the breaking news that Cardiff Rugby are set to go into administration with the Welsh Rugby Union in line to take over the capital city side. BBC Wales business correspondent Huw Thomas as well as former Chief Executive of Sport Wales and longtime Cardiff fan Dr Huw Jones discuss the ramifications for the world-famous club.

Published 2025-03-31

Wales walloped by rampant Red Roses

61 min
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Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Jenkins are joined by former Wales captains Ellis Jenkins and Siwan Lillicrap to reflect on Wales’ 67-12 defeat to England and the weekend’s URC games. Sean Lynn's side conceded 11 tries against the Women's Six Nations holders in front of a record crowd of over 21,000 fans. Elsewhere, Scarlets came back from 17-0 down to beat west Wales rivals Ospreys, Cardiff conceded a late penalty to lose away to Benetton and Dragons suffered another defeat after losing to Edinburgh.

Published 2025-03-24

“Rome wasn’t built in a day”

32 min
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Gareth Rhys Owen, Alex Cuthbert and Philippa Tuttiett review Sean Lynn’s first game in charge after Wales lost 24-21 to Scotland in their Women's Six Nations opener. We also review the weekend's URC games where there were wins for Cardiff and Ospreys but defeats for Dragons and Scarlets. After only three sessions with the team new Wales boss Sean Lynn was “super happy” with the building blocks put in place in his first game in charge but says “Rome wasn’t built in a day.”

Published 2025-03-20

WRU CEO Abi Tierney

31 min
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Welsh Rugby Union Chief Executive Abi Tierney sits down with Lauren Jenkins to reflect on another winless Six Nations campaign and discuss what's next for Welsh rugby. Wales are currently on the worst run of results in their 143-year history having lost their last 17 Test matches. We hear about the WRU's plans to appoint a new director of rugby and head coach, the commitment to keeping four regions and the personal abuse Tierney has received since taking on the role.

Published 2025-03-19

Scrum V Top 5: Jamie Roberts

68 min
Open

Former Wales and British & Irish Lions star Jamie Roberts has led a fascinating life. He’s a grand slam winner, a qualified doctor and has even played guitar with the Manic Street Preachers. Now he’s dropping by Mike Bubbins’ bar to reveal his top five centres.

Former Wales chairman Gareth Davies chats to the pod about the crisis facing the sport in Wales and what the Welsh Rugby Union can do to lift the game from rock-bottom. Alex Cuthbert and Philippa Tuttiett discuss what went so wrong for Wales against England, review Gloucester-Hartpury's Premiership title win and look ahead to the Women's Six Nations.

Published 2025-03-10

It's England week!

39 min
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Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins and former Wales captain Ellis Jenkins, reflect on Wales' defeat in Scotland and assess the chances of bringing their wretched run of defeats to an end with victory over England on Saturday. Wales centre Joe Roberts also joins top pod to look back at his 70 minutes on the wing at Murrayfield.

Lauren Jenkins is joined by Alex Cuthbert, Jonathan Davies and Tom Shanklin as they look ahead to Wales' first home game against Ireland in this year's Six Nations. They’ll be discussing Matt Sherratt’s first team selection as Wales interim head coach and reminiscing on their memories of playing Ireland.

Published 2025-02-19

Scrum V Top 5: Adam Jones

59 min
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Adam Jones was regarded as one of the great tight-head props in world rugby. He played with and against some of the greats of the game, but now he’s heading to Mike Bubbins' bar to reveal his top 5 forwards. Please note - this episode was recorded before this year’s Six Nations.

Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins and former Wales scrum-half Richie Rees assess Matt Sherratt's chances of making an immediate impact as the interim coach prepares his side to face Ireland in Cardiff on Saturday while Wales flanker James Botham joins to discuss how Sherratt's appointment is going down with the players. There’s also a review of the weekend's URC action which included defeats for all four Welsh regions.

Published 2025-02-12

Scrum V Top 5: Steve Speirs

35 min
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Actor and comedian Steve Speirs joins Mike Bubbins at his bar to pick his top 5 rugby heroes. Speirs has appeared in some of the world’s biggest films and most iconic British comedies, but away from the cameras he’s also a passionate rugby fan. So which players will make his top 5 rugby heroes? Please note – this episode was recorded before Geoff Wheel passed away in December.

Published 2025-02-04

Wales on the Côte d'Azur

36 min
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Lauren Jenkins and BBC Sport Wales rugby writer Gareth Griffiths head to Nice to catch up with the Wales team as they prepare to face Italy in Rome on Saturday. Wales prop Henry Thomas gives the lowdown from inside the camp while former Wales scrum-half Richie Rees gives his analysis of what went wrong in the record 43-0 defeat to France and what can be done to turn things around at the Stadio Olimpico.

Published 2025-01-29

Scrum V Top 5: Alun Wyn Jones

44 min
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In a rare interview, the world’s most-capped rugby player, Alun Wyn Jones, drops in on Mike’s bar to discuss his all-time top 5 Six Nations matches. On the field Alun Wyn was the ultimate warrior but having played nearly 70 Six Nations matches, what games will he select?

Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins and Cennydd Davies are at The Vale as Warren Gatland announces his team for Friday's Six Nations opener in France. We hear from the Welsh head coach and AFP reporter Illtud Dafydd joins us to discuss the French team. Wales are boosted by the return of British and Irish Lions duo Josh Adams and Liam Williams. Wing Adams has not featured for Wales since the 2024 Six Nations, while full-back Williams' most recent international appearance was on last summer's tour of Australia. Dafydd Jenkins, who captained the side in last year's Six Nations, returns at lock, while Evan Lloyd and Henry Thomas are given their first Wales starts in the front row. Full details are available on the BBC Sport website.

Published 2025-01-27

The Six Nations preview

60 min
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Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins and Alex Cuthbert preview the Six Nations and Wales' trip to France on Friday. They hear from Wales scrummaging legend Adam Jones - part of Warren Gatland's coaching setup for the Six Nations - and Scarlets in-form wing Tom Rogers. They also discuss the weekend's United Rugby Championship action which included impressive wins for Ospreys and Scarlets.

Published 2025-01-20

Wales women appoint Sean Lynn

52 min
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Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Jenkins speak with new Wales women head coach Sean Lynn and the Welsh Rugby Union's Head of Women's rugby Belinda Moore.

Former Wales wing Alex Cuthbert also joins the pod to review the weekend's European action and assess Ospreys, Scarlets and Cardiff's Challenge Cup knockout hopes.

Published 2025-01-09

The Warm Up: Fan Mail!

42 min
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Comedian Mike Bubbins makes his Scrum V, The Warm Up debut alongside Lauren Jenkins, Jonathan Davies and Alex Cuthbert to preview his upcoming series of Scrum V Top 5 and to discuss next week’s Six Nations squad announcement.

Published 2024-11-25

Scrum V Top 5: Gareth Edwards

60 min
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It’s the biggest of days for comedian and rugby fan Mike Bubbins - his ultimate hero, Sir Gareth Edwards, is dropping by the bar. For many, Gareth is the greatest rugby player the game has seen, but which players from other countries would he have loved to play with?

Published 2024-11-23

Wales slump to record 12th loss in a row

35 min
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Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Jenkins are joined by former internationals Gwyn Jones, James Hook and Ken Owens to react to Wales' 45-12 defeat to South Africa and discuss Warren Gatland's future. Wales end the year with a record twelfth successive defeat and without a win in a calendar year for the first time since 1937.

Published 2024-11-18

Scrum V Top 5: Tanni Grey-Thompson

44 min
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Comedian and rugby fanatic Mike Bubbins welcomes a legend of Welsh sport, Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, to his bar to discuss her top five rugby memories. From a heartbreaking moment at the end of the seventies, to the day she borrowed a shirt from a spiky-haired super-star, Tanni’s selection is both fascinating and poignant.

Published 2024-11-11

Scrum V Top 5: Dan Biggar

48 min
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Comedian and rugby fanatic Mike Bubbins welcomes Wales legend Dan Biggar to his bar to pick his top five opponents. As a player Dan Biggar built a reputation as one of the fiercest competitors on the field, but who will he pick as his toughest rivals?

Published 2024-11-10

Wales humbled by Fiji

24 min
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Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Jenkins speak with former Wales internationals Richie Rees and Siwan Lillicrap about Wales' defeat to Fiji - their 10th successive Test loss which equals the country's record losing international streak.

Lauren Jenkins is joined by Alex Cuthbert, Jonathan Davies and Tom Shanklin to discuss the latest saga to hit the Welsh Rugby Union with it’s handling of contract negotiations with the women’s senior team, look ahead to Wales’ game against Fiji in the autumn internationals, and share their experiences of playing against the Fijians.

Published 2024-11-05

In Conversation with Nicky Smith

13 min
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After a year out of the Wales squad, prop Nicky Smith is back in camp ahead of the Autumn internationals. Now plying his trade in the English Premiership with high-flying Leicester under head coach Michael Cheika, Smith catches up with Lauren Jenkins about what he's learned since the move.

Published 2024-11-04

Scrum V Top 5: Sam Warburton

47 min
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Comedian and rugby fanatic Mike Bubbins welcomes Wales and British and Irish Lions legend Sam Warburton to his bar to discuss his all-time top five teammates. As a player who has played at the highest level, who will make the cut on Sam’s list? Expect some big surprises.

Published 2024-11-04

Another WRU apology

59 min
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Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins and Alex Cuthbert discuss the fall-out after the Welsh Rugby Union are forced to apologise for its handling of contract negotiations with the senior women's side, react to Dai Flanagan's departure as Dragons head coach and look ahead to Wales v Fiji with ex-Fiji 7's coach Gareth Baber.

Published 2024-10-28

A hat-trick of wins for the Welsh regions

37 min
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Lauren Jenkins is joined by Alex Cuthbert and Richie Rees to review the weekend’s URC results and discuss some of Warren Gatland's selection headaches ahead of the international break. Three of the four Welsh regions came away with wins as Cardiff pulled off a remarkable second-half comeback to beat Ulster, Scarlets continued their winning streak with a win over Zebre and Ospreys climbed off the bottom of the table after beating Edinburgh in Bridgend. Meanwhile, Dragons suffered a fifth consecutive loss after being beaten by Connacht.

Published 2024-10-14

Wales win and a mixed bag for the regions

48 min
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Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins, Philippa Tuttiett and Ellis Jenkins meet up at Rodney Parade following Dragons defeat to Lions to look back at the URC's weekend action as well as Wales' WXV2 win over Japan. Dragons CEO Rhys Blumberg also joins the podcast to discuss reports of a WRU proposal to own a stake in all four Welsh regions.

Published 2024-09-30

All smiles at Cardiff after derby delight

49 min
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Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins and Alex Cuthbert head to the Arms Park after Cardiff get the best possible start their season with back-to-back bonus point wins.

They are joined by Cardiff Aled Davies and lock Josh McNally who reflect on the comeback win at Scarlets and look ahead to the visit of champions Glasgow.

Published 2024-09-23

Dramatic Dragons derby delight

34 min
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Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins and Alex Cuthbert look back at the results from the opening weekend of the United Rugby Championship, including Dragons' last-gasp win over Ospreys, Scarlets' gutsy draw at Benetton and Cardiff's home victory against Zebre.

Published 2024-07-02

Wales in Australia

34 min
Open

Scrum V's Lauren Jenkins and BBC Sport Wales rugby writer Gareth Griffiths meet up with the Wales squad in Sydney and speak with hooker Evan Lloyd ahead of the first test on Saturday. They also get the lowdown on the Wallabies with rugby writer Christy Doran.

Published 2024-06-11

The big review of the sesaon

62 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Jenkins are joined by Wales wing Alex Cuthbert and BBC Sport Wales' rugby writer Gareth Griffiths to look back at the season for the Welsh regions. They pick their standout moments and select their key players as the 2023-24 season draws to a close for the Welsh sides.

Published 2024-06-03

Wales' summer squad

42 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins and former Wales centre Tom Shanklin look at Wales' squad for their summer Tests against South Africa and Australia and discuss just how Ospreys qualified against the odds for the United Rugby Championship playoffs.

Published 2024-05-21

URC round-up with Richie Rees

38 min
Open

Former Wales scrum-half and current Cardiff Rugby backs coach Richie Rees joins Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Jenkins to discuss victories over the weekend for Cardiff, Ospreys and Scarlets. They also run the rule over Nigel Walker's comments after the WRU CEO said cutting the number of regions from four to three is still a possibility.

Published 2024-05-08

Jonathan Davies says farewell to Scarlets

47 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Jenkins head to Parc y Scarlets to chat with Jonathan Davies after he announced he is leaving the Scarlets. Head coach Dwayne Peel also joins to pay his tribute to a Scarlets great and reflects on a disappointing campaign. Got a question for the podcast? Send them in to scrumv@bbc.co.uk.

Published 2024-04-30

How do you fix Welsh women's rugby?

41 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins and Philippa Tuttiett discuss what is needed for Wales to go from the wooden spoon to being Six Nations title contenders. They also speak with former Wales captain Ellis Jenkins after he announced he was retiring from rugby at the end of the season. Got a question for the podcast? Send them in to scrumv@bbc.co.uk.

Published 2024-04-23

Wooden Spoon decider incoming

37 min
Open

Lauren Jenkins, Alex Cuthbert and Philippa Tuttiett reflect on Wales' loss to France which means a wooden spoon decider against Italy on Saturday. They also discuss the URC and a big win for Ospreys in South Africa.

Got a question for the podcast? Send them in to scrumv@bbc.co.uk.

Published 2024-04-16

Wales humbled in Cork

41 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Jenkins are joined by Alex Cuthbert and Philippa Tuttiett to reflect on a humbling defeat for Wales against Ireland in Cork and Ospreys European exit at Kingsholm. Also - Josh Turnbull joins the podcast to discuss his decision to call time on a 17-year career.

Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins and Elinor Snowsill reflect on Ospreys victory over Sale and look ahead to their European Challenge Cup quarter-final trip to Gloucester with Ospreys chief executive Lance Bradley. Elinor also helps preview Wales' trip to Cork as they look to win a first match in this year's Women's Six Nations.

Got a question for the podcast? Send yours to scrumv@bbc.co.uk.

Published 2024-04-02

Ospreys fly the flag for Wales in Europe

60 min
Open

Lauren Jenkins and Nicky Robinson are joined by former Wales international Sioned Harries to review Wales' Women's Six Nations defeat to England, discuss the regions' results and talk Louis Rees-Zammit. We speak with Ospreys head coach Toby Booth before their Challenge Cup tie with Sale Sharks and chat with NFL analyst and former Buffalo Bills coach Phoebe Schecter about Louis Rees-Zammit's move to the Kansas City Chiefs.

Published 2024-03-25

Late kick heartache

30 min
Open

Lauren Jenkins is joined by former Wales internationals Philippa Tuttiett and Siwan Lillicrap to review Wales' Women's Six Nations opening defeat to Scotland. We also discuss the regions' results in the United Rugby Championship.

Published 2024-03-12

Avoiding the wooden spoon

43 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Jenkins are joined by former Wales internationals James Hook and Josh Navidi to review the defeat to France and discuss how Wales will fare against Italy in their final Six Nations match.

Published 2024-03-07

New men in the middle

37 min
Open

Lauren Jenkins is joined by Alex Cuthbert, Philippa Tuttiett and Tom Shanklin discuss Warren Gatland's changes for the Wales' Six Nations match against France and react to the Wales squad announced for the Women's Six Nations.

Published 2024-02-26

Impressive Ireland and Gatland's game plan

46 min
Open

Gareth and Lauren are joined by former Dragons head coach Bernard Jackman and rugby analyst Sam Larner to assess Wales' performance against Ireland and their Six Nations so far.

Wales' 31-7 defeat followed losses to Scotland and England. With France and Italy still to visit the Principality, what do Gatland and Wales need to do to get a win?

Published 2024-02-13

Ireland calls

52 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins and Nicky Robinson review Wales' 16-14 defeat to England and the opening rounds of the Six Nations, look ahead to next week's game against Ireland and preview the weekend's United Rugby Championship fixtures. We also hear from former Wales captain and assistant coach Stephen Jones about his new role at New Zealand-based Super Rugby side Moana Pasifika.

Published 2024-01-30

The Big Six Nations preview

56 min
Open

How will Wales get on in this year's Six Nations? Who is each nation's key player? Who will be the top try scorer? Will there be a Grand Slam? All the big Six Nations questions asked and answered by Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins and Nicky Robinson.

Published 2024-01-22

2024 Six Nations launch

49 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen is in Dublin for the Six Nations launch and catches up with Sarra Elgan, speaks to Wales head coach Warren Gatland and scrum-half Gareth Davies, gets an early look at Scotland in the form of co-captain Rory Darge and gets an insight into the Six Nations Netflix documentary with showrunner Rob Rawlings.

Published 2024-01-10

Hanging out at Harlequins

70 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen and Nicky Robinson head to Surrey to speak to the Welsh contingent at Harlequins. Former Wales and Lions prop, now scrum coach Adam Jones recalls a drop goal attempt whilst playing for Cardiff and pays tribute to two greats we have lost this year, JPR Williams and Clive Rowlands. Fly-half Jarrod Evans talks about his Wales situation ahead of the Six Nations squad announcement next week and Dillon Lewis reveals which of his former teammates are most likely to try and wind him up as Harlequins travel to face Cardiff at the Arms Park on Saturday.

Published 2024-01-09

JPR Williams: A Life In Rugby

29 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen introduces a celebration of the rugby life of JPR Williams, who has died aged 74. Recorded in 2019 to mark his 70th birthday, this programme hears from those who knew the Wales and Lions full-back best, including the late Phil Bennett, Steve Fenwick, Bob Hiller and Gareth Thomas.

With his mutton chops, flowing locks and rolled-down socks he was instantly recognisable. An icon not just of Welsh rugby but of global sport. JPR is one of a select group of six Welshmen who won 3 Grand Slams in an international career that spanned three decades. He won 55 caps for Wales in an era when they reigned supreme – he took to the field 11 times against England and 11 times, he emerged victorious.

JPR also toured twice with the British Lions – in 1971 in New Zealand with the series 2-1 in the Lions favour, he dropped a goal from 45 metres that led to a drawn game and meant they still remain the only Lions side to win a test series against the All Blacks. In 1974 he was a key member of the 'Invincibles' who won 21 of their 22 matches, drawing the final test with South Africa.

Presenter Ross Harries celebrates John Peter Rhys Williams’ life in rugby in the company of some of those who know him best: John Taylor, his teammate at London Welsh, Wales and the Lions and also best man at his wedding; Wales and Lions legends Phil Bennett and Steve Fenwick; former England captain and 71 Lions teammate Bob Hiller; and Wales centurion and Grand Slam-winning captain Gareth Thomas, himself another Bridgend old boy.

It’s widely accepted that he was one of a kind – unique and singular presence on the rugby field. JPR was fearless, he was peerless - but was he the greatest?

Published 2024-01-03

Derby downpour

40 min
Open

Lauren Jenkins is joined by former Wales internationals Nicky Robinson and Andrew Coombs to discuss Ospreys win against Cardiff at a wet and muddy Brewery Field and Dragons defeating Scarlets and what a ninth defeat in 11 games means for Dwayne Peel.

Published 2023-12-19

Ioan Lloyd

53 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen, Nicky Robinson and James Hook are joined by Scarlets and Wales fly-half Ioan Lloyd. Ioan looks ahead to the Christmas derbies, discusses his idols growing up, including the one and only James Hook and talks about his ambitions of earning more Wales caps after making his debut in an empty Parc y Scarlets in 2020.

Published 2023-12-07

The final countdown to Europe

25 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen and Nicky Robinson visit Jonathan 'Fox' Davies at the Scarlets ahead of this weekend's first European fixtures.

They discuss the new format to the tournaments, the rise in social media abuse and Nicky's choice of coat...

Published 2023-12-06

More names added to concussion lawsuit

55 min
Open

As more names are released in conjunction with the concussion lawsuit against rugby's governing bodies, Gareth Rhys Owen speaks to former Wales international Alix Popham, journalists Sam Peters and Andy Bull, Dr Izzy Moore and solictor Richard Boardman to detail the next steps in the case.

Published 2023-11-29

In camp with Ospreys

51 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Jenkins spend the day with Ospreys catching up with head coach Toby Booth and podcast regular Alex Cuthbert. They also speak to James Ratti in the treatment room and meet 'The Postman', South African Daniel Kasende.

Published 2023-11-07

A day with Dai and Dragons RFC

57 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Jenkins spend the day with Dragons RFC at their Ystrad Mynach training facility. We go behind the scenes with head coach Dai Flanagan, captain Steff Hughes, Wales back-row Aaron Wainwright and prop Lloyd Fairbrother fresh off the back of his first Wales appearance at the weekend.

Published 2023-11-03

Warren Gatland

13 min
Open

Ahead of Wales v Barbarians, Gareth Rhys Owen speaks to Wales head coach Warren Gatland about Alun Wyn Jones’s legacy in Welsh rugby and Leigh Halfpenny’s final Wales game.

Published 2023-10-24

The Ox, the Fox and the Butcher

59 min
Open

The Scrum V pod team speak with Stormers head coach John Dobson, Wales flanker Alisha Butchers, Scarlets head coach Dwayne Peel and captain Jonathan Davies.

The team review the opening round of the United Rugby Championship, discuss Wales' WXV1 opening defeat to Canada and preview the World Cup final.

Published 2023-10-19

The URC & WXV1 preview

64 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Jenkins preview Wales' WXV1 opener against Canada with back rower Sioned Harries.

We also go behind the scenes at Cardiff Rugby ahead of the return of the United Rugby Championship with new head coach Matt Sherratt, assistant coach Richie Rees, flanker Alex Mann and winger Theo Cabango.

The Scrum V pod team are live in Marseille the morning after Wales' World Cup quarter-final defeat to Argentina.

Gareth Rhys Owen is joined by former Wales internationals Josh Navidi, Nicky Robinson and Philippa Tuttiett to assess where things went wrong for Warren Gatland's men - and what the future holds.

Published 2023-10-13

The Big Quarter-Final Preview

49 min
Open

The Scrum V pod team sit down in Marseille to preview a huge weekend at the World Cup.

Gareth Rhys Owen is joined by former Wales internationals Josh Navidi and Nicky Robinson, along with S4C reporter Lauren Jenkins.

The team make their predictions for each quarter-final, before looking at the impact Warren Gatland has made since he returned to Wales.

Published 2023-10-11

Next stop: Marseille

25 min
Open

40 matches later...and we're into the World Cup knockout stages. Wales are down to the final eight. Argentina lie between them and the semi-finals.

Gareth Rhys Owen has arrived in Marseille, where he finds two men who saw Argentina beat Japan on Saturday.

They discuss Wales' injury concerns, who replaces Faletau and who really are the underdogs in this weekend's match.

Published 2023-10-02

Wales name their team for Georgia

43 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen and Nicky Robinson are joined by S4C pitchside reporter Lauren Jenkins to assess the XV named by Warren Gatland to face Georgia on Saturday.

Wales need just a point to secure top spot in the group and a quarter-final against likely Argentina or Japan in Marseille the following weekend.

The team are also joined by former Ireland international and Dragons head coach Bernard Jackman to preview Ireland's game against Scotland and look ahead to the rest of the World Cup's final pool matches.

Published 2023-09-25

Kings of Lyon: Wales thrash the Wallabies

30 min
Open

We're live in Lyon the morning after Wales' record-breaking win over Australia.

Gareth Rhys Owen is joined by former Wales internationals Josh Navidi, Nicky Robinson and Philippa Tuttiett - along with (a very sad) Australian commentator Sean Maloney.

Sit back and enjoy the chance to re-live a memorable night for Welsh rugby.

Published 2023-09-22

Are the Wallabies worried?

32 min
Open

Wales vs Australia is getting close but it's the Wallabies who are having the sleepless nights.

As both sides name their starting XVs, Gareth Rhys Owen is joined by S4C reporter for the World Cup, Lauren Jenkins, and Australian commentator Sean Maloney.

And Maloney is worried.

Comedian and rugby fan Mike Bubbins joins the pod to look back at the World Cup so far.

He joins Gareth Rhys Owen and Nicky Robinson to share his best moments of the tournament - and look ahead to Wales' huge game against Australia on Sunday night.

BBC Wales rugby writer Gareth Griffiths was in Saint-Etienne to watch Fiji beat the Wallabies at the weekend and gives his perspective on their prospects against Wales...and Eddie Jones.

Gareth Rhys Owen, Josh Navidi and Nicky Robinson are here to preview Wales' second World Cup pool match.

Portugal await in Nice, but will they pose a threat to Wales? And why are the 'Portuguese Rolling Stones' their biggest fans?

Warren Gatland and Christ Tshiunza also chat to the pod and former England player Chris Ashton gives his views on Wales' wingers.

Published 2023-09-13

Wales name their team for Portugal

14 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen and former Wales international Josh Navidi are on the beach in Nice as Wales announce their team to face Portugal on Saturday.

Josh predicts the 13 changes and reveals the difference between playing with Biggar or Anscombe at 10.

Wales take on Portugal in their second World Cup pool match on Saturday afternoon.

Published 2023-09-12

Onwards to Nice

33 min
Open

The Scrum V podcast team follow Wales to Nice ahead of this weekend's match against Portugal.

When they eventually find the right tram, Josh Navidi and Gareth Rhys Owen head to Wales' training base...where they bump into a familiar face.

The Scrum V podcast team are live in Bordeaux after that tense win for Wales over Fiji at the World Cup.

Gareth Rhys Owen is joined by former Wales internationals Josh Navidi, James Hook and Nicky Robinson to discuss Wales' bonus point victory - and how close they came to losing.

You can also watch this live podcast on BBC iPlayer.

Published 2023-09-09

Wales v Fiji: the big preview

53 min
Open

It's nearly here. Wales v Fiji at the Rugby World Cup.

Who's the favourite? Have Wales picked their strongest team? How will Fiji cope without first choice fly-half Caleb Muntz? And which Welsh journalist has the best singing voice?

Gareth Rhys Owen and former Wales international Josh Navidi are in Bordeaux to find out the answers to all these questions - and more.

Published 2023-09-04

The Scrum V podcast LIVE World Cup preview

40 min
Open

We're live in Cardiff with a big preview of Wales' 2023 World Cup campaign.

Wales wing Alex Cuthbert and former internationals Josh Navidi and Nicky Robinson all join Gareth Rhys Owen to discuss who Warren Gatland should pick against Fiji - and who is set to shine for Wales in France.

This was a live video stream from a cafe in Cardiff. The team will now travel to France, where you'll be able to watch and listen to regular podcasts - including live streams the morning after each Wales game.

Published 2023-09-04

Scrum V Reset: Knockout in Nantes

48 min
Open

As Wales head to the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France and an opening game against Fiji, Gareth Rhys Owen, with the help of players, fans and pundits, reflects on the 2007 tournament when the Flying Fijians stunned the rugby world by knocking Wales out and ending the reign of coach Gareth Jenkins.

Published 2023-09-01

Dan Biggar: 'I want to go out on a high'

39 min
Open

Dan Biggar invites the Scrum V pod into his home to chat about why he's calling it a day for Wales after the World Cup.

He also discusses some of his career highlights with Lauren Jenkins (yes, Twickenham in 2015 is mentioned) - as well as revealing which young players excite him in the Wales squad and why he thinks the team could go under the radar in France.

This week Alex Cuthbert joins the Scrum V pod to give his insight into the Wales World Cup squad.

Cuthbert missed out on selection after a calf injury saw him unable to take part in any of the warm ups.

He now joins Lauren Jenkins and Nicky Robinson to discuss the 33 players picked by Warren Gatland for France, that tantalising opening match against Fiji and why he feels he can still offer something at international level.

Published 2023-08-23

Eyes on the Opposition: Fiji

29 min
Open

Our in-depth look at Wales' World Cup pool opponents concludes with some uncomfortable flashbacks to 2007.

That was the last time France hosted the World Cup...and Fiji knocked Wales out in Nantes.

Gareth Rhys Owen is once again joined by Robbie Owen - aka Squidge Rugby - to look at Fiji's class of 2023. And he speaks to the captain of the 2007 team, Moses Rauluni.

Former Wales internationals Josh Navidi and Rhys Patchell join the Scrum V pod to react to Wales' squad for the 2023 World Cup.

Warren Gatland has named the 33 players he's taking to France, while Jac Morgan and Dewi Lake have been announced as co-captains.

Wales' first game against Fiji is on 10 September.

Published 2023-08-18

A new face at the top of Welsh rugby

34 min
Open

We chat to the new WRU chief exec, Abi Tierney, and look ahead to Wales' World Cup warm up against South Africa.

Warren Gatland also speaks to Gareth Rhys Owen as his Wales players prepare for their final chance to impress before the World Cup squad is announced.

Published 2023-08-13

England v Wales: the debrief

25 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen is joined by former Wales international Nicky Robinson and BBC Rugby Union correspondent Chris Jones post-match at Twickenham after England beat Wales in the second match of their World Cup warm-up double header.

Published 2023-08-10

The Same But Different

37 min
Open

Wales prepare to face England (again) with a new team and new captain.

Dewi Lake will lead a completely changed Wales XV from last Saturday's win at the Principality.

Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins and former Wales fly-half Nicky Robinson are at the team's HQ to discuss who's edging closer to the final World Cup squad and who needs a big performance at Twickenham.

Published 2023-08-09

Eyes on the Opposition: Portugal

25 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen is joined by Robbie Owen - aka Squidge Rugby - to look more closely at Wales' World Cup pool opponents.

This week it's Portugal, who have qualified for the Rugby World Cup for only the second time in their history.

Last time - in 2007 - they conceded over 100 points to the All Blacks. Will they pose any test for Wales in Nice this time around?

Published 2023-08-05

Wales v England : the debrief

22 min
Open

The Scrum V team assemble post-match at the Principality Stadium after Wales beat England in their first World Cup warm up.

Lauren Jenkins is joined by former Wales internationals Nicky Robinson and Philippa Tuttiett to discuss who has moved a step closer to Gatland's final squad for France.

And in Jac Morgan, do Wales have their World Cup captain sorted?

Published 2023-08-03

Captain Morgan and a visit by England

38 min
Open

Lauren Jenkins and former Wales fly-half Nicky Robinson are in the Wales camp ahead the summer test against England in Cardiff.

They hear from Warren Gatland and his new captain - for Saturday at least - Jac Morgan.

They also discuss Leigh Halfpenny ahead of his one hundredth cap and ask how many players who'll feature on Saturday will make the World Cup squad.

BBC rugby union correspondent Chris Jones then drops in to bring us the perspective from across the border.

Published 2023-08-02

Eyes on the Opposition: Georgia

24 min
Open

Wales' defeat to Georgia last autumn was the beginning of the end for Wayne Pivac. Now Gatland's back - and Georgia are on the horizon again.

In the second episode in our series looking at Wales' World Cup pool opponents, Gareth Rhys Owen chats to Georgian head coach Levan Maisashvili and YouTuber Robbie Owen, aka Squidge Rugby, to ask whether lightning could strike twice in Nantes in October.

Published 2023-07-27

Life after Dai: what next for Cardiff?

40 min
Open

No head coach, no director of rugby...and not enough players.

The Scrum V team assess what next for Cardiff after the departure of Dai Young.

Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Jenkins are joined by former Cardiff and Wales fly-half Nicky Robinson, as well as Cardiff Rugby Life blogger Dan Pearce.

Published 2023-07-20

Eyes on the Opposition: Australia

27 min
Open

Eddie Jones will be back in the opposition dugout against Wales this autumn - but this time back in Australian colours. He returned to the Wallabies after leaving England and his side face Wales in Lyon on Sunday 24th September.

In the first of a four-part series on Wales' World Cup opposition, Gareth Rhys Owen is joined by Robbie Owen - a.k.a. Squidge Rugby - and Australian commentator Sean Maloney to look at how the Wallabies are shaping up.

Published 2023-06-30

In camp with Wales

35 min
Open

The Scrum V pod goes into the Wales training camp to chat biceps, SAS training and see how Warren Gatland's squad is shaping up for the World Cup.

Scarlets duo Gareth Davies and Sam Costelow sit down with Gareth Rhys Owen, before journalists Alex Bywater and Gareth Griffiths discuss how Wales are coping with the 'outside noise' and how the team could do in France.

Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Jenkins dissect and debate the comments from Warren Gatland and Nigel Walker on last week's pod.

Then the latest Welsh player to move to France stops by - Sam Davies ahead of his move to Grenoble.

We also look ahead to the Premier 15s Final with Gloucester-Hartpury's Lisa Neumann and Lleucu George.

The Scrum V team get a special visit from Wales head coach Warren Gatland and Welsh Rugby Union interim CEO Nigel Walker.

In an exclusive interview with Gareth Rhys Owen they talk about the recent departures from the Wales camp, Gatland's disappointment at not being able to pick Joe Hawkins and why the problems in Welsh rugby are an opportunity for change.

It's an in-depth, unfiltered chat with arguably the two most influential men in Welsh rugby. Enjoy it in full or use the time codes below to navigate around.

Producer: Tom Brown

0'00 - introduction 3'35 - what do Gatland's grandchildren call him? 5'10 - coping with a difficult season 7'20 - Gatland's reflections on the Six Nations 10'40 - does Gatland have any regrets about returning to Wales? 12'30 - Welsh rugby's reset 14'10 - the vision for the future 16'40 - how many regions can Wales afford? 20'50 - the impact on the players 23'15 - player withdrawals from the Wales camp 25'00 - Alun Wyn Jones 29'15 - the players opting to play club rugby abroad 36'20 - can Wales afford to keep its best players? 37'20 - Joe Hawkins 40'40 - Rhys Carre 49'50 - who will captain Wales at the World Cup? 52'30 - why Gatland is staying positive 55'10 - when will the regions receive the first instalment of the new financial deal 56'00 - Henry Engelhardt's comments 59'15 - the search for the new WRU chair and chief executive 1'01'20 - could Wales lose to Fiji? 1'04'20 - which players excite Gatland? 1'06'00 - peak Shane or peak Sam?

Published 2023-06-07

'There is no league like it in the world'

36 min
Open

Lauren Jenkins is joined by former Wales internationals Philippa Tuttiett and Siwan Lillicrap to look ahead to the Premier 15s finale.

Lillicrap's Gloucester-Hartpury side topped the league but now face two knockout games to win the play-offs.

And there's a bonus chat with Bristol's Alisha Butchers after her long-awaited return from injury.

Published 2023-05-19

Two legends call it a day

30 min
Open

The Scrum V team scramble to react to the shock news of Alun Wyn Jones and Justin Tipuric's sudden retirements from international rugby.

Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Jenkins are joined by former Ospreys head coach Sean Holley and BBC Wales rugby reporter Gareth Griffiths.

They look back at Jones and Tipuric's stellar careers for Wales but ask why have they gone? And, just months before a World Cup, why now?

Published 2023-05-18

The Scrum V end of season awards

50 min
Open

It's been a tough season for Welsh rugby but the Scrum V team are determined to go out on a high.

Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins and Nicky Robinson pop open the alcohol-free prosecco and pick their end of season award winners.

They also debate their best XV of the season from the Welsh regions.

Published 2023-05-16

Henry Thomas - 'I'll show how Welsh I am'

23 min
Open

Former England prop Henry Thomas tells the Scrum V podcast how proud he is to be called up by Wales.

31-year-old Thomas has not played for England since 2014 and qualifies for Wales through his father.

He has been selected in Wales' extended World Cup training squad and Thomas says being capped by Wales would equal anything he's done in his career.

Published 2023-05-12

At home with Dan Biggar

40 min
Open

Dan Biggar welcomes Scrum V to Toulon to talk about his life in France and why he thinks Wales might surprise people at the World Cup.

The 33-year-old has a chance to win a European trophy with Toulon in the EPCR Challenge Cup final.

He also looks back at a turbulent season for Welsh rugby and gives his insight into the week the national players almost went on strike.

Josh Navidi joins the Scrum V team to analyse the controversial inclusions - and exclusions - in Wales’ 54-man World Cup training squad.

Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins and Nicky Robinson also hear from Scarlets centre Joe Roberts and look back at their European Challenge Cup semi-final defeat to Glasgow.

They also pick out Wales’ players of the tournament after their encouraging third-place finish in the Women’s Six Nations.

Published 2023-04-26

S6E45: It's Always Sunny In Llanelli

50 min
Open

The Scrum V team hit the road to Llanelli to see how the Scarlets are preparing for their European Challenge Cup semi-final against Glasgow on Saturday.

Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins and former Wales fly half Nicky Robinson speak to Jonathan Davies, head coach Dwayne Peel and the retiring Aaron Shingler as the region targets its first European trophy.

They also look back at Wales' defeat to France in the penultimate round of the Women's Six Nations and discuss the controversy surrounding Dai Young and Cardiff.

With Judgement Day on the horizon Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins and Nicky Robinson head to the Principality Stadium.

They hear from a concerned Ospreys head coach Toby Booth, analyse Wales' big defeat to England in the Women's Six Nations and ask whether there are any reasons to be optimistic about Welsh rugby.

Published 2023-01-23

S6E22: BREAKING: BBC INVESTIGATES

18 min
Open

BBC Scrum V break down a series of allegations directed towards the WRU with the reporter who’s been leading the investigation Wyre Davies. The allegations - made by former employees - claim there is a culture of sexism , misogyny and bullying at the organisation.

The WRU has investigated and say proper procedures were followed.

Published 2022-10-19

Autumn squad with Wayne Pivac

39 min
Open

The team are back together and back on the road. They meet up with Wales head coach Wayne Pivac to discuss his Wales squad announcement for the Autumn internationals. Philippa Tuttiett also joins the podcast to evaluate the women's Rugby World Cup and all the latest URC action.

Published 2022-06-30

S5 E43: The Latest Magnificent Seven

17 min
Open

Lauren Jenkins and Gareth Griffiths are joined by rugby journalist Matthew Southcombe to discuss the Wales team announcement for the first test in Pretoria. Leicester flanker Tommy Reffell will make his Wales debut, George North returns to midfield while Alun Wyn Jones takes his place on the bench alongside Josh Navidi and Tomas Francis.

Published 2022-05-10

S5 E38: The Next Chapter

46 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins and Nicky Robinson talk with Hallam Amos about retiring from rugby and becoming a doctor. They also catch up with Lloyd Ashley about the next step of his career.

The team also dissect the leaked review of Welsh rugby and discuss what are the implications of cutting one of the regions.

Published 2022-04-19

'It's Harry not Harrison'

44 min
Open

Catrin Heledd disturbs Nicky Robinson’s holiday to digest the last weekend of rugby action. Natalia Johns explains how excited the Welsh squad are to face France on Friday. And Harrison Keddie looks forward for the ‘second leg’ of the Scarlets v Dragons derby.

Published 2022-04-12

S5 E33: A Decade’s Progress in a Year

40 min
Open

Lauren Jenkins is joined by Philippa Tuttiett and Nicky Robinson to digest the last weekend of rugby action. Alisha Butchers explains how much the Welsh squad has developed in this campaign and the lessons they learnt versus England. While Ali Donnelly breaks down the tournament so far, and how fantastic it is to see so many people going to watch the games live.

Published 2022-04-06

S5 E32: Let’s make it uncomfortable

49 min
Open

We’re finally back on the road again and our destinations couldn’t be more of a contrast: James Botham talks about Cardiff's attitude after their derby defeat, whilst there’s a DJ, some questionable footwear and a lot of positive vibes at the Wales Women Camp.

Published 2022-03-29

S5 E31: No Woman No Try

45 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen is joined by Nicky Robinson, Phillipa Tuttiett and Dona Rose to discuss Wales’ Women Six Nations opener vs Ireland and the Welsh regions recent trips to South Africa. Victoria Rush also talks about her recent documentary, No Woman No Try

Published 2022-03-22

S5 E30: The Big Welsh Six Nations Review

49 min
Open

Lauren Jenkins is joined by James Hook, Andrew Coombs and Gareth Davies to evaluate Wales’ six nations campaign. Simon Muderack gives his thoughts on how Wales should rebuild looking towards the future and Sisili Tuipulotu joins Phillipa Tuttiett to preview the Women’s Six Nations as Wales prepares to face Ireland on Saturday.

Published 2022-03-15

S5 E29: Alun Wyn back for Italian job

38 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Jenkins are joined by Scott Baldwin to talk selection ahead of the Italy game. Stephen Varney calls in from the Italian camp as he reveals how Italy will play against Wales and Dillon Lewis takes a break from Wales training and describes how Alun Wyn Jones has been going about training this week.

Lauren Jenkins, Nicky Robinson and Gareth Griffiths are joined by Scarlets executive chairman Simon Muderack to react to the news that Festive sport in Wales will be held behind closed doors. We're also joined by Cardiff Rugby's Rowan Jenkins to look back on their recent games against Toulouse and Harlequins.

Published 2021-11-23

S5 E10: Wales beat the Wallabies

54 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins and Nicky Robinson look back on Wales' win over Australia and chat concussions with former Dragons centre Adam Hughes. We're also joined by France defence coach Shaun Edwards, talk URC with Josh Turnbull and Wales' Hannah Jones joins us to tell us about her special day.

Published 2021-10-12

S5 E4: Show me the money

38 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins and Nicky Robinson discuss all the latest news from the United Rugby Championship, look ahead to the Wales autumn squad announcement and speak to Ospreys flanker Dan Lydiate as he continues his recovery from injury.

Published 2021-07-15

S4 E51: The Lions' tour roars into life

38 min
Open

After the Lions' first defeat of the tour against a strong South Africa 'A' side, Lauren Jenkins and Nicky Robinson are joined by 2013 Test Lion Dan Lydiate and rugby writer Simnikiwe Xabanisa as excitement builds for the first Test in just over a week. Lauren and Nicky also discuss what Wayne Pivac's Wales will have to do differently to go one better against Argentina in their final international of the series on Saturday.

Published 2021-07-08

S4 E50: COVID-19 hits the Lions camp

37 min
Open

After a hectic 24 hours in South Africa, Gareth, Lauren and Nicky discuss the uncertain future of the British & Irish Lions Tour and the team’s victory over Cell C Sharks. We also look back at Wales’ thrashing of Canada and look ahead to the Test against Argentina, as Wales and Cardiff Rugby flanker James Botham joins the podcast.

Published 2021-06-30

S4 E49: Lions roar… and bite!

52 min
Open

Lions roar… and bite, as one of our guests this week will tell you! Scott Baldwin joins Gareth, Lauren and Nicky to talk Lions, Wales and winning the Premiership title with Harlequins. South African rugby journalist Brenden Nel gives us the lowdown on the coronavirus crisis facing the British and Irish Lions. Canada head coach Kingsley Jones also joins the podcast as he leads his team to face Wales this weekend.

Published 2021-06-02

S4 E47: The Welsh World Cup winner

36 min
Open

Gareth, Lauren and Nicky speak with a key member of the Springboks' 2019 World Cup triumph, former South Africa Strength and Conditioning Coach, Aled Walters. The Llangadog man, who's now Head of Physical Performance at Leicester Tigers, gives the pod the low down on Rassie Erasmus and his World Cup winning side ahead of the British and Irish Lions Tour to South Africa. Also, Lauren and Nicky dissect the latest happenings in Pro14's Rainbow Cup.

Published 2021-05-26

S4 E46: He's going to a land down under...

38 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen is back on the podcast after two weeks off, and he and Nicky Robinson are joined by Wales and Scarlets lock Jake Ball. Jake speaks exclusively to the Scrum V Podcast about his imminent departure to Australia where he’ll meet his six-month old son for the very first time, and tells us why he’s not ruling out further caps for Wales. Gareth also catches up with Georgia Evans, the Wales and Saracens second row, ahead of their Premier 15s final versus Harlequins women this weekend.

Published 2021-05-19

S4 E45: Sheedo! Sheedo!

38 min
Open

Lauren and Nicky are joined by Wales and Bristol Bears fly-half Callum Sheedy, who talks about THAT Bristol versus Gloucester match, gives the run down on Pat Lam, and shares his goals and aspirations for the immediate future. Ospreys’ Scott Otten also joins the pod - he opens up about his career-ending neck injury and what’s next for the hooker.

Published 2021-05-13

S4 E44: “I can smile again…”

45 min
Open

Former Wales, now Canada assistant coach Rob Howley joins the pod - he opens up about life lessons following his breach of betting rules and subsequent ban from rugby, British & Irish Lions, his relationship with Warren Gatland, and how ironically he’ll be returning to Cardiff for his first game back when Canada face Wales. The man who can do it all – Ireland and Munster lock/back-row Tadhg Beirne talks about his first Lions call up. Also, Lauren and Nicky mull over Glenn Delaney’s sudden departure from Scarlets.

Published 2021-04-07

S4 E39: Pounds, euros and rubles

57 min
Open

Gareth, Lauren and Nicky speak to Scarlets chairman Simon Muderack about those Dwayne Peel talks, transfers and trimming the squad. They also assess whether the women’s game can go professional with BBC Sport reporter and commentator Sara Orchard, and speak to Russian rugby’s Welsh professional James Down.

Wales head coach Wayne Pivac joins the podcast to review a successful Six Nations and discusses a possible Lions tour for Louis Rees-Zammit as well as captain Alun Wyn Jones' future. And as one tournament ends, another begins and Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins and Nicky Robinson are joined by Wales fly-half Elinor Snowsill, Worcester Warriors back-row Sioned Harries and broadcaster Laura-Jane Jones ahead of the start of the Women's Six Nations this weekend.

One of Wales' standout performers from the Six Nations, prop Wyn Jones joins the podcast to reflect on the tournament and a disappointing night in Paris on Saturday. Andrew Cotter, the BBC's commentator on rugby union and more recently on his dogs Olive and Mabel during the lockdown, helps Gareth Rhys Owen, Nicky Robinson and Lauren Jenkins look ahead to France against Scotland and pick a revised Lions XV.

Published 2021-03-17

S4 E36: Grand Slam hope or expectation?

49 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins and Nicky Robinson are joined by Dan Lydiate who discusses whether the Wales squad believed they could win the Grand Slam this year. French journalist Cécile Grès gives us an insight into the French camp who will be looking to upset the party in Paris on Saturday and former Wales centre Hadleigh Parkes dials in from Japan to give his thoughts on Wayne Pivac, George North at centre and how Wales can stop the likes of Antoine Dupont and Virimi Vakatawa.

Gareth Rhys Owen, Lauren Jenkins and Nicky Robinson are joined by Wales and Scarlets scrum-half Kieran Hardy to discuss his quick-thinking against England and his social media presence before Zebre head coach Michael Bradley joins to talk about what threats Italy might pose Wales on Saturday as well as the future of Italian rugby.

Published 2021-01-13

S4 E25: R.E.S.P.E.C.T.

39 min
Open

Gareth Rhys Owen and Lauren Jenkins talk about respect and dissent on the pitch, discuss the potential postponement of the Six Nations with Illtud Dafydd and speak to Mark Jones about his move to Worcester as senior assistant coach.

Published 2021-01-06

S4 E24: Two Lions and a world champion

37 min
Open

We're back fitter, faster and stronger in 2021 with Gareth Rhys Owen, Nicky Robinson and Lauren Jenkins discussing the latest goings on in Welsh rugby including John Mulvihill's situation at the Cardiff Blues. Jamie Roberts and Dan Lydiate join the podcast to discuss the 2021 Lions tour and we hear from PDC world champion Gerwyn Price.

Gareth Rhys Owen speaks to former Dragons wing Adam Hughes about suing rugby's governing bodies for negligence and Dr Bennet Omalu, the forensic pathologist who discovered the brain disease chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) and rocked American football with his research into the brain injuries sustained by players in the National Football League (NFL).

Wales and Lions wing Alex Cuthbert speaks candidly about the effect social media trolls had on his mental health, and we hear from Ospreys lock and mental health advocate, Lloyd Ashley.

Hear more exclusive interviews from the likes of Justin Marshall, Billy Vunipola and Rhys Webb only on the Scrum V podcasts, available to download and listen on BBC Sounds.

WRU strength and conditioning coach Bobby Stridgeon reveals how Wales' best trainer needs ice cream to reward the squad, and why a Greggs pasty on a match-day is a superstition he won't go without.

For more exclusive interviews with the likes of Jamie Roberts, Dan Biggar Billy Vunipola and Rhys Webb, download and listen on BBC Sound

Rhys Webb speaks exclusively to the Scrum V podcast about how it all ended with Toulon, before joining Bath on a short term deal.

Webb will be an Ospreys player again come July, but has been spending his time in lockdown making PPE equipment, and home schooling his three sons.

For more exclusive interviews with the likes of Jamie Roberts, Dan Biggar & Billy Vunipola download and listen on BBC Sounds.

England's Billy Vunipola lifts the lid on growing up in Wales, wearing the red shirt as a schoolboy...and why big brother Mako still has a Welsh accent.

Speaking exclusively to the Scrum V podcast, Billy tells Nicky and Gareth, what Wales new boy Nick Tompkins is really like, and what away trips he's looking forward to with Saracens playing in the RFU Championship next season.

Gareth Rhys Owen & Nicky Robinson are joined by ex Wales & Lions scrum-half Mike Phillips from his apartment in Dubai, where like us all he's in lockdown.

In this episode he talks about his high profile move from the Blues to the Ospreys, winning titles in France and who he thinks will be the Lions 9 in South Africa next summer.

Published 2019-03-01

JPR @ 70 – A Life In Rugby

27 min
Open

There are few sportsmen or women who are known by their initials alone. JPR Williams is one of them. A singular presence in rugby, there has never been, nor will ever be, another like him. With his mutton chops, flowing locks and rolled-down socks he was instantly recognisable. An icon not just of Welsh rugby but of global sport. JPR is one of a select group of 6 Welshmen who won 3 Grand Slams in an international career that spanned three decades. He won 55 caps for Wales in an era when they reigned supreme – he took to the field 11 times against England and 11 times, he emerged victorious. JPR also toured twice with the British Lions – In 1971 in New Zealand with the series 2-1 in the Lions favour, he dropped a goal from 45 metres that led to a drawn game and meant they still remain the only Lions side to win a test series against the All Blacks. In 1974 he was a key member of the “Invincibles” who won 21 of their 22 matches, drawing the final test with South Africa. As he enters his eight decade, Ross Harries celebrates John Peter Rhys Williams’ life in rugby in the company of some of those who know him best – John Taylor, his teammate at London Welsh, Wales and the Lions and also best man at his wedding. Wales and Lions legends Phil Bennett and Steve Fenwick. Former England captain and 71 Lions teammate Bob Hiller and Wales centurion and Grand Slam winning captain Gareth Thomas – another Bridgend old boy. It’s universally accepted that he was one of a kind – unique and singular presence on the rugby field. He was fearless, he was peerless, but was he the greatest?