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THE EPISODES
Ep. 96
Nick Mallett: Springboks | British & Irish Lions | and the Future of the Game 🇿🇦🦁
This week on Behind the Ruck, we’re joined by none other than Nick Mallett — former Springbok coach, international player, and one of the sharpest minds in the game.
We dive into his approach to media and punditry, coaching in France, and how he sees social media shaping modern rugby. From school rugby structures to the road to RWC 2027, Nick doesn’t hold back.
He walks us through his own coaching journey, future play-styles to look out for, and the stars lighting up the game. We also get stuck into a proper rugby debate: Champions Cup vs URC, and wrap up with a big chat on the British & Irish Lions.
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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. 95
Michele Lamaro Talks Springboks Tour and Italy’s Rugby Revolution
We kick things off with a look at the latest Champions Cup action, then dive straight into an honest chat with Michele. He shares his thoughts on the rise of Italian rugby, the impact of the Six Nations, and what it’s really like growing the game in a football-mad country.
From there, we unpack SA’s role in European club rugby and what Michele and the boys are expecting from their upcoming tour to South Africa. He also takes us inside the mindset of captaining Italy—what it means to wear the armband and lead from the front.
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Ep. 94
Paul de Villiers | From Oakdale Farm Boy to Juniorbok Captain | To Stormers Key player
The spotlight’s on Paul de Villiers – Juniorbok captain and Stormers rising star – who chats about learning from the Springboks in the squad and what it means to earn their respect. He reflects on his early playing career, life in the Garden Route, and how a farming-focused school like Oakdale helped build his rugby DNA. We also get into his leadership journey, winning the SA U21 Cup with WP, managing his body through a tough season, and how he balances rugby and studies like a pro.
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Ep. 93
Josh Strauss | From Lions Legend to Scotland Star | How He Led Ikeys to Varsity Cup Glory!
Josh Strauss, former Scotland star and standout for the Lions and Glasgow Warriors, joins Behind the Ruck this week! Known for his trademark beard and relentless playing style, Josh carved out a unique path in rugby, earning international caps for Scotland after rising through the South African rugby system.
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Ep. 92
Who Should Wear the Springbok 8 Jersey? 🤔 | Aussie Rugby Rising Again? | Drama in the Varsity Cup 🔥
We kick things off with the Varsity Cup, chatting standout moments and what’s got everyone talking. Then it’s onto the BrightRock experience and our Bounce Player of the Week. From there, we unpack the latest results and break down the key performances.
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Ep. 91
Peter de Villiers Unveils All: Eposes Springboks' Challenges! | Coaching Style | State of Rugby
In this episode of Behind the Ruck, hosts Rudy Paige and Juan de Jongh cover a range of topics, starting with the BrightRock Bounce Player of the Week, celebrating an outstanding performance in recent matches. They then analyze the latest Challenge Cup results and fixtures, offering insights into team performances and upcoming games.
The highlight of the episode is an exclusive interview with former Springbok coach Peter de Villiers. He discusses his coaching style and selection philosophy, providing a behind-the-scenes look at his approach to team management. De Villiers also shares his thoughts on the current Springbok squad, reflects on the highlights of his 2009 coaching tenure, and talks about overcoming challenges throughout his career.
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Ep. 90
Jordan Hendrikse | Joining the Sharks, His Springbok Future & The Art of Kicking! 🦈
Before Jordan jumps on, Rudy and Juan have something special for the Ruckers—a competition with Festina Watches! 🎉 Want to win? It’s simple: Watch the episode, listen for the question about a previous episode, and drop your answer in the comments. Every correct entry gives you a shot at winning a sleek Festina watch! ⏳⌚
Now, onto the main event—Jordan Hendrikse! He sits down with us to chat about his big move to Durban and joining the Sharks, his journey from school games into pro rugby, growing up alongside his brother Jaden Hendrikse, and what it takes to be a top kicker. Jordan also dives into his Currie Cup victory, signing with Roc Nation, and his future aspirations in the game.
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Ep. 89
Oupa Mohojé on Injuries, Rugby’s Harsh Reality & the State of Cheetahs Rugby! 💥🏉🔥
This week on Behind The Ruck, Oupa Mohojé joins the show for an in-depth chat! Before diving into his journey, Rudy and Juan kick things off by breaking down their Brightrock Bounce Player of the Week, highlighting a standout performer from the past weekend.
Oupa then joins the conversation to talk about balancing rugby while preparing for life after the game. He shares insights on getting into coaching, how he’s preparing for the future while still competing at a high level, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. He also reflects on the best coach he’s ever worked with and how they influenced his career.
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Ep. 88
Are the Springboks in Trouble? Is a New Era of French & NZ Rugby Dominance Coming?!
Rugby fans, buckle up! 🏉 This week on Behind the Ruck, Gio Aplon joins Juan and Rudy for a no-holds-barred discussion on all things rugby! From thrilling Six Nations results to bold predictions for the British & Irish Lions, this episode is packed with insights, debates, and a few controversial takes! 💥
We dive into the Six Nations results—who’s thriving and who’s struggling? 🇫🇷 With French rugby dominating, are they the new kings of the sport? Plus, we break down Ireland’s red-hot form and whether they can keep it up heading into 2025.
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