DSPN - Devlin Sports Podcast Network

The All Blacks coaching conversation just shifted again, and we finally have some clarity. With New Zealand Rugby publicly outlining the criteria for the next head coach, the speculation is narrowing fast, and a few big names are already out of the race.

Marty and TJ unpack Vern Cotter’s surprise decision to leave the Blues, what it means for the All Blacks shortlist, and why international coaching experience is now non-negotiable. They dig into the five-person selection panel, the mystery retired All Black still to be named, and which candidates are realistically left standing.

There’s also a deep dive into Super Rugby Pacific preseason as the competition fires back up. From disciplinary debates to high-ball tactics and what these warm-up games really tell us, it’s a wide-ranging, honest look at where the game is heading as another massive year begins.

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This one’s a proper rugby pub yarn.

Tony Johnson joins us to tackle one of the biggest debates in New Zealand sport. Who are the greatest All Blacks captains of all time? No stats spreadsheets, no definitive rankings. Just leadership, mana, and the moments that define greatness.

TJ and Marty work through names that shaped generations. From pioneers like David Gallaher, through statesmen such as Wilson Whineray and Graham Mourie, to modern-era icons including Sean Fitzpatrick and Richie McCaw.

It’s about courage under fire, thinking the game differently, and the calm heads who carried the jersey when it mattered most. We also give credit where it’s due to leaders like Wayne Shelford, whose impact went far beyond the win-loss column.
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The inbox exploded and honestly, we’re not surprised. This week’s DSPN Mailbag takes on the All Blacks coaching fallout, the Razor decision, and the sheer volume of opinions flying around New Zealand rugby right now.

Martin and Lachlan dig into everything from Wayne Smith’s reaction to Razor's departure, to the ongoing debate around player power, accountability, and whether this All Blacks group is really as weak as some fans claim.

There’s also a deep dive into the England comparison, why Baltimore is hosting a Test against South Africa, and what that actually means for travelling fans.

Along the way, we read the good, the bad, and the downright unhinged comments. Some fair. Some funny. Some that probably should’ve stayed in drafts.
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Hurricanes preseason, Super Rugby Pacific playoffs, team culture and player development all come under the microscope as former All Black and current Canes assistant coach Cory Jane joins Martin Devlin on the DSPN.

Cory breaks down how the Hurricanes have approached their summer, why connection and belonging inside the group matters, and how that culture held firm even when results weren’t coming.

We talk about accountability within the squad, how players take ownership, and why creating a safe environment leads to better performance.

There’s also a deep dive into Super Rugby realities. Cory explains why playoff rugby is a different beast, what mistakes get punished harder, and what Hurricanes need to do differently if they want to win the competition.

We finish with a detailed look at high-ball contests, law interpretations, refereeing trends, and why fans may see far more kicking this season.
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Coming home is one thing. Coming home after nearly a decade in Europe is something else entirely.

This week on DSPN, Martin sits down with Pita Ahki to talk about his long stint overseas, the grind of French rugby, and what it really takes to survive and thrive in a relentless competition. From winning titles in France to learning how to look after his body and mind over a ten month season, Pita opens up about how much the experience shaped him both as a player and as a person.

Now back in New Zealand and settling into life with the Blues, Pita reflects on returning home, reconnecting with family, and the challenge of earning his spot in a talented midfield. There’s also chat about playing for Tonga, the inspiration of veterans still going strong, and why overseas rugby can be such a powerful growth experience for Kiwi players.
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