The 42 Rugby Weekly UNLOCKED: The best of this week's Rugby Weekly Extra
Mar 20, 2026
James Tracy, line-out and set-piece specialist, and Bernard Jackman, former pro player and coach, break down this week’s standout rugby moments. They debate Player of the Championship contenders, dissect intercept and decision-making drama, and analyze Ireland’s scrum, line-out tweaks and plus-one tactics. Quick previews of upcoming club fixtures round out the chat.
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McCloskey Emerged As Ireland's Complete Player
- Stuart McCloskey's all-round peak made him Ireland's standout player across attack and defence.
- Murray Kinsella and Bernard Jackman praised his pace, assist count (six in the championship) and crucial defensive interventions like the turnover tackle on Russell.
GPS Speed Data Would Boost Rugby Broadcasts
- Live GPS speed data would add a compelling broadcast layer, highlighting players like Bundee Aki and Tommy O'Brien in top-speed moments.
- Murray Kinsella and colleagues argued team data would show peak metres-per-second and enrich discussion of explosive sprints.
Why A Forward Rarely Deviates After An Intercept
- Oli Chessom's intercept try sparked debate because he didn't run under the posts, but his decision reflects a forward's instinct to maintain line and speed.
- Bernard Jackman and Murray Kinsella argued forwards rarely change angle 50 metres out, valuing straight-line speed over subtle deviation.