Series 6 - Episode 21

·44 min·4 clips

Tom Shanklin argues the Welsh players' strike hurts local businesses more than the union.

The episode begins with hosts David Flatman and Tom Shanklin recounting a difficult 30-minute session of mispronounced sponsor reads and connection issues. They share casual banter about celebrities like Danny Dyer and Gavin Henson, and Shanklin describes a family trip to Alton Towers where major rides were closed. The conversation turns to personal routines, with Flatman discussing his portable 5G Wi-Fi device and Shanklin talking about gym habits and home maintenance. They review TV shows, including 'The Last of Us' and 'Mary Kingstown', and the Netflix golf documentary 'Full Swing'. Flatman shares an anecdote about a failed attempt to produce a behind-the-scenes documentary series at a Premiership rugby club due to timing and budget issues. The discussion pivots to the major news in Welsh rugby: a potential player strike over contractual disputes, including the 60-cap rule and reduced wages. Shanklin, who runs a hospitality business in Cardiff, expresses concern about the financial impact of a cancelled Wales vs. England match on local economy. Flatman recalls his experience with an England rugby strike in the early 2000s. They debate whether striking for a high-profile home game is the right tactic, with Shanklin arguing it hurts the wrong people and Flatman discussing strike strategy. They analyze the potential long-term damage to Welsh rugby, including player exodus and the sustainability of four regional teams. The episode concludes with lighter topics: Shanklin's story about a parking dispute, a charity event with David Kirk, and brief rugby analysis of recent Premiership matches and Six Nations predictions.

As heard by us

A near-miss documentary prompts a loose, thoughtful discussion of rugby access, memorable central figures and international predictions.

Rugby's appetite for behind-the-scenes television frames a lively conversation about access, storytelling and the production that nearly happened.

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Why you'd press play

You'll hear how a Premiership behind-the-scenes series got tantalisingly close, then missed the start of the season.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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