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THE EPISODES
Ep. 82
Malcolm Marx on Rassie's Bomb Squad Revolution | Life in Japan, Derby Predictions and many more! 💣🔥
In the latest episode of Behind the Ruck, we’re joined by none other than Malcolm Marx! 💥 The Springbok powerhouse, currently playing for Kubota Spears Funabashi Tokyo Bay in Japan. He speaks about adapting to life in Japan, and how his playing style fits into his preparation for games. Before Malcolm joins, Juan and Rudy kick things off by diving into the highly anticipated BrightRock Derby Weekend, where the DHL Stormers take on the Vodacom Bulls in a massive North-South showdown! 🔥
Malcolm opens up about the adjustments he’s had to make both on and off the field in Japan and how his meticulous preparation allows him to stay at the top of his game. He also shares insights into how Coach Rassie Erasmus revolutionized the way South Africa approaches impact players, branding the bench as the Bomb Squad, which played a crucial role in the Springboks’ success. Beyond rugby, Malcolm speaks about his business venture with former Springbok teammate Steven Kitshoff, launching Bombsquad Beer, a brand inspired by their dominant forward pack. He also weighs in on the Bulls vs. Stormers clash, giving his take on who he thinks will come out on top. To wrap things up, Rudy and Juan break down other exciting URC fixtures, analyzing what’s in store for the teams battling it out this weekend.
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Ep. 81
The PRESSURE of Being Springbok Captain | Reality Check after Rugby | Jean de Villiers Tells All!
In the latest episode of Behind the Ruck, Rudy and Juan sit down with former Springbok captain Jean de Villiers for an in-depth conversation about life on and off the field. He opens up about the challenges of transitioning from rugby to the corporate world, adjusting to a new routine, and finding purpose beyond the game.
Jean reflects on his standout career moments, including how special his 101st Test match was, played in front of his home crowd. He shares the day he’d relive if he could, reminisces on his journey from childhood to becoming a Springbok, and recalls the moments that shaped his passion for rugby.
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Ep. 77
Elton Jantjies Reflects on His Journey | Pressure, Challenges, and Rugby Success!
Elton dives into the vital role of senior players in a team, explaining the importance of leadership and understanding what it truly means to play for something greater. Reflecting on his stellar career with the Springboks and Lions, he reveals how achieving one goal inspired him to set the next, always striving for excellence. He also gives us insight into his unique kicking style and how it has become a defining part of his game.
To close the episode, Rudy and Juan take a moment to reflect on the year that was, share their aspirations for the new year, and wish all of you a Happy New Year. They also introduce our WhatsApp Channel, where you can join the conversation and stay updated on all things Behind the Ruck.
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Ep. 70
Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu Opens Up About His Injury, Return to Play, & Springbok Camp Secrets
We’re thrilled to have Springbok Star Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu on Behind The Ruck! Sacha dives into his journey to the top, from juggling first-team spots in multiple sports to his unforgettable Springbok debut as a fly-half. He shares insights from the Springbok Camp, the invaluable role his family played in his career, and even gives a shoutout to our very own Rudy and Juan for their hard work! Sacha also opens up about his injury struggles, the tough road to recovery, and what it means to make his return to play with the Springboks.🔥
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Ep. 68
Cheslin Kolbe Reveals the Secrets Behind His Legendary Sidestep and 1st Springbok Call-up
In this electrifying episode of Behind the Ruck, we’re honored to sit down with none other than Cheslin Kolbe! 🌟 From the dusty fields of South Africa to the grand stadiums of France and Japan, Cheslin’s story is one of pure heart, resilience, and relentless passion for rugby. Hear him relive the pivotal moment he first laced up for the Springboks, and the blood, sweat, and tears that shaped his journey there. 💚💛
He lets us in on the secrets behind his jaw-dropping sidestep, the intense conditioning that keeps him unstoppable, and the rugby heroes who inspired him to chase his dreams. Cheslin also shares the moving story behind the Kolbe Foundation, a project close to his heart, dedicated to turning obstacles into powerful motivators for others.
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Ep. 31
A real conversation with Siya Kolisi
The renowned rugby figure and two-time Springbok Rugby World Cup champion, Mr. Siya Kolisi, graces the Behind the Ruck studio with his presence, offering Ruckers an exclusive peek behind the scenes. As former teammates and friends, we delve into Siya's experiences since relocating to France and gain some more insight on his life.
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Ep. 80
French Rugby DOMINATES Investec Championship Cup | Can the Springboks Stop Them!?
This week on Behind the Ruck, Juan and Rudy bring you an intimate and in-depth rugby discussion! They dive into the latest rugby debates, unveil the Bounce Player of the Week, and break down the Investec Champions Cup results.
Discover why all South African teams are out of the main competition, with only three advancing to the EPCR Challenge Cup. The duo analyzes French clubs' dominance in the Champions Cup knockout stages and explores the state of South African Rugby in European competitions, pondering implications for the year-end Springboks vs France test.
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Ep. 79
Thibaud Flament Talks Toulouse, SA Rugby, and His Next Big Move! 🚀
This week on Behind the Ruck, Rudy and Juan bring you all the latest rugby news and updates from the past weekend, including a breakdown of standout moments and results. They also introduce an exciting new segment: the Brightrock Bounce Player of the Week, celebrating the top performances in rugby!
Later, we’re joined by the incredible Thibaud Flament, who gives us a deep dive into his journey and insights. Thibaud shares his thoughts on Toulouse’s unique and dynamic play style, the impact of South Africa’s inclusion in European club tournaments, and how his upbringing shaped his rugby career and many more. He also opens up about his future plans and what’s next for him as one of the prominent figures in rugby.
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Ep. 78
Springbok 2025 Debutants? Rudy & Juan Investec Challenger Cup Predictions!
This week on Behind the Ruck, our dynamic hosts, Rudy Paige and Juan de Jongh, take center stage for a jam-packed episode! With no guest this time, they bring their signature energy and expert insights to discuss all things rugby.
Rudy and Juan kick things off by welcoming our newest sponsor, BrightRock, and introducing an exciting new segment. They recap the festive season’s rugby results and provide an in-depth look at this weekend’s Investec Challenger Cup fixtures.
They also dive into the state of South African rugby, highlighting the players they’re excited to see and sharing their bold predictions for 2025 Springbok debutants. Plus, they explore the gaps the Springboks might need to fill after the 2027 World Cup, offering valuable insights from their own experiences.
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Ep. 76
Jake White Talks Springbok Glory and Bulls Vision | Rudy & Juan’s Heartfelt Year-End Recap
This week on Behind the Ruck, we’re thrilled to welcome the legendary Jake White! 🏉
Jake dives deep into his remarkable journey, sharing his thoughts on the importance of bringing South Africa’s best players back home and how it could transform the local rugby landscape. He also reflects on the challenges and triumphs of taking on the position of Bulls Head Coach, shedding light on the current state of the team and his vision for the future.
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Ep. 75
Edwill van der Merwe Reveals How He Got His Springbok Call-Up | From Kylemore to National Glory!
This week on Behind the Ruck, we’re excited to host the dynamic Edwill van der Merwe! 🏉🔥
Edwill opens up about life on and off the field, reflecting on his experiences playing in the Challenger Cup and URC, and how he’s adapting to life in Johannesburg after growing up in Cape Town. He shares insights into working with the Lions coaching staff and the incredible vibe within the team.
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Ep. 74
The Untold Story of Tricky Ricky (Ricardo Duarttee) | From Selling His Car to Blitzboks Stardom!
This week on Behind the Ruck, we’re joined by Blitzboks sensation Ricardo Duarttee, better known as Tricky Ricky! 🏉✨
We kick things off by reflecting on his game-changing role in the Blitzboks’ historic HSBC Cape Town Sevens win, ending a 9-year drought. Ricardo shares how the Sevens circuit has evolved, with more teams competing for glory, making it more exciting than ever.
He gives us a glimpse into the current state of the Blitzboks, emphasizing their focus on building not just a strong team but a full squad of talented players ready to step up. Ricardo also opens up about his incredible journey, from nearly giving up on rugby to selling his car to join the Stellenbosch Academy of Sports and chase his dream.
On top of it all, he shares his passion for MMA and him perusing a career in the sport. 🥋
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