Sam Larner

In today's Substack we look at the French Back Row. They don't punch massive holes, so if they don't do that do they fail in their roles as modern back rowers?

samlarner.substack.com/p/hole-punch...

Good question! Tbh, I felt it was a law change that didn't directly address what it was trying to fix - i.e. removing players from the defensive line. So I felt it was better to just directly address that in some way. But I was wrong!

Haha that's the hope for sure!

This is wonderful! Thank you Danny, hope you enjoy it.

Haha I love it! Looks like it'll work just fine....

🚨New Pod!🚨

Epic to be joined this weekend by @samlstandsup.bsky.social

Discussing everything from France's kicking game, to backrow balance and the best restaurants in Annecy!

+ the lowdown on Rob's trip to Lille, from Belgian beers to sneaky hospitality...

🎧👇
linktr.ee/rosbifsrugby

Thank you!

Yeah I think that's certainly a possibility! I think there is an evolution ongoing in that squad.

In today's Substack I look at why England aren't firing in the opposition 22 at this Six Nations...

samlarner.substack.com/p/the-final-...

Jérôme Rey: The Top 14's farmer The Lyon prop talks about the cows and pigs he rears near the Alps

This week's Jouez: The French Rugby Dispatch

A chat with Lyon prop Jérôme Rey, a beef and pig farmer, with France's annual agricultural show starting on Saturday

#SIA2026

open.substack.com/pub/illtudda...

Really enjoying @samlstandsup.bsky.social book “Attacking the Space”. If you’re interested in rugby and why it’s played the way it is, it’s a must read.

Thank you so much Will! I really appreciate it, what a kind thing to say.

Just arrived,
@samlstandsup.bsky.social's masterpiece on falling in love with kicking, numbers, and all other things.

PS. Chuffed to be a member of the #Bajad8ta group!

Long Read: Analysing Wales Are there reasons for optimism?

Are there reasons for optimism after another Welsh loss?

Some. But they need to stop falling out of contention before the first quarter is even up and they have to think their way around their opponent's strengths, not just accept they're better.

samlarner.substack.com/p/long-read-analysing-wales

The best way to enjoy Attacking the Space? Possibly.

If you haven't got your copy and you want to understand what's happening under the surface of the Six Nations, this is the book for you.

Have you got your copy of Attacking the Space yet?? If not, you're missing out on being the most informed person in the pub.

Understand why penalties don't matter (in some cases), why possession is overrated, and why Bielle-Biarrey wanders around the pitch.

We do have a French publisher but likely not published until next year. I'm unsure on how to buy the English version there though. I'll do some digging.

Three Moments from France v Ireland "Without the ball, I thought we lost that battle in the first half." Andy Farrell

Today's Substack looks back at last night's game and at the key moments in the first half where France ultimately won the game. Featuring impressive skill, patience, and mindnumbing penalties and brain melting missed opportunities.

samlarner.substack.com/p/three-mome...

This Searle is on Fire...

In today's Substack we look at how Billy Searle is so good with ball in hand and what he can teach players young and old!

samlarner.substack.com/p/this-searl...

Ahh that's so lovely to hear Allan. I'm absolutely delighted you're enjoying it. Thank you for letting me know.

Haha, have you been eating nothing but ice cream?

We return tonight with very special guest @samlstandsup.bsky.social - we'll discuss his new book, preview the men's Six Nations and round up the second trimester of the URC. As usual, #handsintheruck are welcome!

Legend!! Thank you Gregg, I appreciate it. Hope you enjoy.

Thank you John! My preferred method as well!

Thank you Cian!! Can't wait to hear what you think

Highly recommended.

It is the release day for Attacking the Space!!

If you haven't pre-ordered you can now pick-up a copy in your local bookshop.

This is in the shops tomorrow.

I am mentioned in it.

Buy it.

I hope you enjoy it. I'm looking forward to hearing from folks abroad who've got a hold of it!

Haha well thank you very much! I really appreciate one order let alone two!!

'Fantastic insight into how the game has evolved, a must-read for rugby fans' by Ben Youngs

'Compelling' by Metro

'this is a must read. Sam's detail and understanding of the game will open your eyes' by Jimmy Gopperth

And my mum thinks it's great! Buy it anywhere you get books