Inside Rugby Asia: Challenges & Triumphs with Steve Noble | Rugby Through the Leagues Podcast

Join us in this episode of Rugby Through the Leagues Podcast, where our host sits down with Steve Noble from Rugby Asia 24/7. The conversation spans the landscape of rugby in Asia, discussing the challenges of governance, the impact of expats, and the incredible grassroots initiatives despite political and financial hurdles. Steve shares his insights on the potential for growth in regions like UAE, China, and Cambodia, the opportunities and issues faced by teams like Hong Kong China, and what it would mean for these nations to compete on the world stage. Don't miss this deep dive into the complexities and future opportunities for rugby in Asia.

00:00 Introduction and Recap of Last Episode

00:25 Guest Introduction: Steve Noble

01:04 Steve's Rugby Journey

02:50 Rugby Documentaries and Springbok Fans

05:22 Lions Series Predictions

10:04 Cambodia Rugby: Grassroots to Growth

14:49 Challenges in Asia Rugby Governance

19:51 Positives and Growth in Asia Rugby

24:03 Kazakhstan Women's Rugby Decline

27:34 China's Rugby Potential

34:11 Sevens Rugby and Governance Issues

48:19 Rugby in the Armed Forces

51:54 Middle East Rugby Growth

52:55 Historic Test Match for Bahrain

53:12 Challenges in Asian Rugby

54:01 Regional Rugby Developments

55:27 World Cup Qualification Efforts

56:59 Impact of Transient Expats

58:23 Political Tensions and Rugby

59:07 Future of Rugby in the Middle East

01:03:44 UAE's Rugby Prospects

01:05:36 Sri Lanka's Rugby Journey

01:09:02 Hong Kong, China Rugby Analysis

01:12:38 World Cup Qualification Scenarios

01:30:51 Women's Rugby World Cup 2025

01:38:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts