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The Rugby Paper Podcast

RED ROSES ROLL ON! | England v Wales + Saints v Bath Preview | ft Nick Heath | Rugby Paper Roundup

April 23, 2026·35 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

In this week’s episode of The Rugby Paper Roundup… Assistant Editor Ben Jaycock is joined by Women’s Six Nations commentator and Rugby Writers chair Nick Heath to preview a massive weekend across the women’s and men’s game. The sun is shining and it’s raining tries across rugby — and England head into Round Three of the Women’s Six Nations with serious momentum. A sold-out Ashton Gate awaits as the Red Roses take on Wales, with new faces like Millie David stepping into the spotlight on her home ground after a prolific season with Bristol. We break down England’s selection, including seven changes, Ellie Kildunne’s return to full-back, and what it says about the depth driving this side forward — as well as where Wales can realistically test them. There’s also a powerful story on the Welsh side, with Alisha Joyce returning after 562 days and just 158 days after giving birth, potentially lining up alongside Jaz Joyce in a remarkable family moment. We also cover: • England’s growing fanbase and sold-out crowds • Millie David’s debut and England’s attacking edge • Key tactical battles at Ashton Gate • France v Ireland — a World Cup quarter-final rematch in Clermont • Italy v Scotland — who bounces back? • Whether the title race is building towards another England v France decider 🏆 Premiership Rugby – Round 14 Attention then turns to the Premiership, where it’s first vs second as Northampton Saints host Bath in a huge top-of-the-table clash. We preview the key battles, including Fin Smith v Finn Russell, and assess how Bath cope without key midfield options. Plus, we shine a light on Saracens sensation Noah Caluori, who has racked up 17 tries this season at just 19 — including five against Sale alone. ⚡ Quickfire with Nick Heath • Favourite ground to commentate at? • One player you love calling right now? • Most chaotic game you’ve covered? • Nando’s order? (heat level included…) • Tea or coffee on comms? 🎧 Subscribe for more weekly rugby insight, analysis and debate from The Rugby Paper Roundup. You can subscribe to The Rugby Paper digitally or physically for more great content via this link: https://www.therugbypaper.co.uk/subsc... Follow us across social media for more rugby insight and analysis: X: https://x.com/TheRugbyPaper Facebook: / therugbypaper Instagram: / therugbypaper

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