Episodes

  • Investing and Not For Profits: The Business of Rugby
    Mar 18 2026

    In this episode of Inside Line, hosts Michael Atkinson and Sam Worthington dive into the shifting commercial landscape of Australian rugby. The centerpiece of the discussion is the Western Force's landmark move to a not-for-profit structure. Following a Memorandum of Understanding with Rugby WA, the hosts explore how this change aims to broaden the team's investment base beyond the Forrest family and potentially secure state government support.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • The Lingering Lomax Question, Selection Surprises and an absent Wallaroos Star
    Mar 11 2026

    The boys break down the biggest talking points in Australian rugby, including the shock Zac Lomax switch from league to rugby and why it has sparked such a reaction. They also cover major team news, Replay-gate and what went wrong with the broadcast chain of communication.

    Plus a look at the Wallaroos squad, the new Super Rugby Women’s draw starting 6 June, and your mailbag questions on Victoria missing out on Tests and how rugby can diversify revenue like the NRL.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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    55 mins
  • The Great Scrum Conspiracy & The Lomax Lockdown
    Mar 3 2026

    In this episode of Inside Line, Michael Atkinson (Stan Sport) and Iain Payten (SMH) dive deep into the "geopolitics" of global rugby following explosive reports from the Northern Hemisphere.

    The boys peel back the layers on rumors that Australia and New Zealand are conspiring to "depower" the scrum, exploring why nations like South Africa and France are so quick to believe the Aussies are out to turn Union into League.

    The discussion shifts from boardroom battles to the latest scandals and safety trials:

    • The Springbok Cloud: Digging into the UK Telegraph’s report on the six-fold decrease in drug testing in South Africa and what it means for their recent World Cup triumphs.

    • The Ben Donaldson HIA: A look at the new pre-game concussion protocols that saw the Force fly-half pulled just minutes before kickoff due to a "mouthguard ping."

    • The Zach Lomax Lockdown: With the NRL courts ruling that Lomax can't play for a rival until 2028, could a move to the Brumbies or the Force be back on the table? Payto breaks down the "price point" reality of luring League stars to Union.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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    42 mins
  • Larkham to the All Blacks? Suaalii’s Struggles & The Global Calendar
    Feb 25 2026

    In this episode of Inside Line, the team breaks down a massive Round 2 of rugby action, headlined by a historic Brumbies victory in Christchurch. Is Stephen Larkham actually in the sights of the NZRU, or is it all just Tasman smoke?

    We dive into the "Ferrari Faltering" narrative surrounding Joseph Suaalii’s recent performances and look at the fascinating stats showing Australian sides are keeping the ball in hand more than their Kiwi counterparts. Plus, we discuss the latest developments on the elusive Global Calendar.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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    45 mins
  • Ramm Returns, Lynagh Whispers & Western Worries
    Feb 18 2026

    The boys are back breaking down a huge week in Australian rugby, from James Ramm signing with the Western Force, to growing speculation around Tom Lynagh and his future in Queensland.

    We unpack the controversial Lions try that’s left fans fuming, ask hard questions after the Force’s 56 to 24 loss to the Brumbies, and debate whether expectations are already too high for Les Kiss.

    Plus, plenty of listener mailbag heat on broadcast decisions, player welfare, Melbourne’s missing Tests, and how Rugby Australia can build stronger revenue streams.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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    45 mins
  • Crichton Signs, Razor Sacked & Tahs Brawl
    Feb 11 2026

    Inside Line Season 4 starts NOW.

    The team recaps a chaotic summer: the Miles Amatosero training ground incident, Angus Crichton’s shock Waratahs signing, and the All Blacks' coaching bombshell.

    Plus, we preview Round 1 of Super Rugby Pacific and answer your questions on the 2027 RWC schedule, the Women’s game, and the Western Force’s chances.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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    Not Yet Known
  • Wallabies Wake Up Call
    Nov 19 2025

    Michael Atkinson, Iain Payten, Michael Hooper and Justin Harrison provide informed perspectives on the run of poor form from the Wallabies and answer some of the most passionate fans concerns. Will the green shoots of 2025 be realised in the years to come?

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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    54 mins
  • Nations Championship, R360 and Victorian Rugby
    Nov 12 2025

    Special Guest Nick Stiles offers qualified insights into the direction of the game both domestically and globally, the evolution of the professional player and development of Carter Gordon.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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    1 hr and 1 min