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Should English rugby have its own version of the Pro Bowl, State of Origin or the NBA All-Star Game? Join us in the discussion as we mull over the pros and cons of such a match happening among the Gallagher Premiership players. Head to theflanker.co.uk or our social feeds on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for more reads, listens and thoughts from The Flanker!

With the Lions squad to tour South Africa in 2021 now in the books, The Flanker takes a look at the key ins, the big outs and who could be considered to be shaking it all about.  Bundee's back, a surprising Jonny makes the plane, there's no room for a couple of players eyeing up a third tour, and the bolter from the blue is heading to South Africa.  We also discuss from the squad what kind of gameplan Gatland could be cooking up to contain the world champions in their own backyard.  Head to theflanker.co.uk or our social feeds on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for more reads, listens and thoughts from The Flanker!

Glasgow and Scotland flyhalf Adam Hastings joins The Flanker ahead of the return of the Pro14. We talk to him about growing up as part of a rugby dynasty, his reflections on the 2019 World Cup, his relationship with Finn Russell and how Donncha O'Callaghan gave him his first 'welcome to rugby' moment.  We also check in on how he's tracking ahead of what is set to be a big year of rugby at club, international and (dare we say it) Lions level.  Head to theflanker.co.uk or our social feeds on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for more reads, listens and thoughts from The Flanker!

The Flanker talks to Michael Hudson, president of the LGBTQIA+ inclusive rugby team the Sheffield Vulcans.  Michael talks about his own rugby journey and obstacles he encountered, how he came to be involved with the Vulcans and the wider growth of inclusive rugby sides across the world.  We also discuss Israel Folau, Gareth Thomas, the rugby community and World Rugby's new movements on the treatment of transgender players.  Head to theflanker.co.uk or our social feeds on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram to see more from The Flanker.

Welcome to the brand-new The Flanker podcast, bringing you in-depth interviews with the great and the good of world rugby.  Our first episode brings us face-to-face with Joe van Niekerk, a 50-cap Springbok international and captain of one of the greatest club sides the modern game has known.  Since leaving rugby, Joe has trodden his own path and now lives on an organic farm in Costa Rica. We talk to Joe about his Springbok days, his failed move to Northampton Saints, his time at Toulon and how he came to be where he is now.  Please check out The Flanker at theflanker.co.uk, 'The Flanker' on Facebook and @theflankerrugby on Twitter and Instagram!