Few in New Zealand know all the French players and Dave Rennie as well as Brad Weber.

Aotearoa Rugby Pod brings in the former All Blacks, Stade Francais and Chiefs halfback to give us the lowdown on both teams before Saturday's first test!.

He explains how French rugby thinks, why Bordeaux's systems are likely to shape France's attack this week, and whether the absence of Toulouse's stars—including Antoine Dupont—really changes the contest. 

The crew also debates the All Blacks midfield combination, Beauden Barrett's role under Rennie, South Africa v England and Australia v Ireland.

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Yes, it was only the Barbarians.

But the performance reinforced a feeling many rugby fans already have: the Springboks' depth of talent is becoming frightening.

Ross Karl, Bryn Hall and James Parsons discuss South Africa's 80-31 win over the Barbarians.

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Fresh off the press - the ARP crew breaks down Dave Rennie's first All Blacks squad!

The 34 man squad, captained by Ardie Savea, includes four new caps, one eyebrow raising inclusion at halfback and the return of a veteran from Japan.

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The Hurricanes didn't just beat the Chiefs in the Super Rugby Pacific final — they dismantled them.

Ross Karl, James Parsons and Bryn Hall break down why the Hurricanes tore apart the Chiefs and why the visitors couldn't find a way back into the contest.

Have the Canes changed the All Blacks selection conversation? Does their style offer a blueprint for the All Blacks?

Plus, reaction to South Africa's demolition of the Barbarians and what it tells us about the Springboks ahead of the international season.

Don't miss our All Blacks squad announcement special.. dropping 12:15 Monday 22.

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Ardie Savea and Wallace Sititi are surely a lock when the All Blacks are named next week. But, our deep dive into the loose forward stats reveal a couple of surprises could be come Monday.

Using ARP's Super Rugby Form Statistics Index, which feeds into our Test Selection Index, we assessed every major contender for Dave Rennie's side.

Some names will surprise you.

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Two different styles. One showdown for the Super Rugby title.

The Hurricanes have lit up Super Rugby with their width and strike power. The Chiefs have built their season on territory, set-piece and ruthless counter-attack.

In this episode, we break down the their philosophies, stats and key match-ups.

Plus, don't miss two signed jersey giveaways and a chance to watch the final with us at Sky City.

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Why do the Hurricanes click?

Hurricanes centre Billy Proctor joins the Aotearoa Rugby Pod ahead of the team's Super Rugby semifinal against the Blues to explain the foundations of their success.

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Bryn Hall reveals how Kubota Spears prepared for the Japan Rugby League One final against Dave Rennie's Kobe Steelers.

From opposition analysis and tactical trends to identifying weaknesses, Bryn explains the detail that goes into building a game plan against one of rugby's most respected coaches.

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Who replaces Scott Barrett?

That's the question dominating this week's ARP.

With Barrett and Fabian Holland injured, the race for All Blacks locking spots is wide open. Jamie Hannah has emerged as a genuine contender and Sam Darry is pushing hard.

Ross Karl, James Parsons and Bryn Hall debate who should be in Dave Rennie's squad and whether the lock hierarchy has shifted.

The team also previews the Super Rugby semifinals, discussing the ominous form of the Crusaders and Hurricanes and whether either side can be stopped from reaching the title decider.

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The All Blacks front row suddenly isn't as straightforward as it looked a month ago.

Fletcher Newell's injury and Tamaiti Williams' absence have opened the door for a new wave of contenders.

Tyrel Lomax and Ethan de Groot are sure things, Aotearoa Rugby Pod assess the leading candidates, including top and comers like Xavier Numia.

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