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In this episode, we kick things off by diving into Rugby's Greatest Rivalry, breaking down what it means and what an exciting time it will be for Springboks and All Blacks fans and players. From there, we unpack the latest results and look ahead to the upcoming fixtures, setting the scene for what’s next in South African cricket. We’re then joined by Ashwell Prince for a powerful and insightful conversation. Ashwell shares his honest thoughts on the current state of South African cricket, the growth of SA20, and how the women’s game is continuing to rise. The chat goes deeper as Ashwell opens up about balancing broadcasting and coaching, his experience coaching the Proteas, and the lessons learned along the way. He also takes us through his life story, reflecting on the journey, challenges, and defining moments that shaped him. To close things off, Ashwell offers valuable advice for young coaches coming through the system, before we end with a meaningful Brightrock LoveChange Moment that brings the conversation full circle. 🎧 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and join the conversation in the comments. #RuckersUnite Chapters: 00:00 Intro 03:31 The Greatest Rivalry 06:22 Results 15:26 Fixtures 20:45 Ashwell Prince Interview 22:30 The state of SA Cricket 27:47 Growth of SA20 and women's game 29:00 Juggling broadcasting and coaching roles 32:26 Coaching the Proteas 52:00 Ashwell's life story 01:04:04 Advice for young coaches 01:07:00 Brightrock LoveChange Moment 01:09:24 Outro 01:10:21 Credits Behind the Ruck is supported by SuperSportBET, make sure you place your bets this weekend: https://www.supersportbet.com/ A big shoutout to our official apparel sponsor, Macron! 🏅 Don’t miss their incredible range—check it out here: https://www.macron.com/wo?srsltid=AfmBOoqOB-JWRvQJmCE3GhkXhChu0fIbRexUKUcDe_OBCk6-PQQKURkb Our audio sponsor for this episode is PlanetWorld South Africa. Check out their services and products on their website:https://www.planetworld.co.za Connect with us on our social pages 👇 WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaybG05H5JLs9rvAD321 Website: https://www.behindtheruckpodcast.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/behindtheruckpodcast?igsh=MWQzcWM0OTg1eTli Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094862943119 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@behindtheruckpodcast?_t=8p5FQddj1mv&_r=1

This week on Behind the Ruck, we dive into some major rugby headlines before sitting down with Billy Searle for an honest and insightful conversation. We unpack the news around Razor and the All Blacks, before Billy opens up about his journey through professional rugby. He chats about his current season with Leicester Tigers, what life is really like playing rugby in France, and how he approaches the game as an attacking flyhalf in the modern era.

This week on Behind the Ruck, we kick things off with a deep dive into the Investec Champions Cup, unpacking the fixtures and sharing our predictions ahead of a massive round of rugby. We’re then joined by Gurshwin Wehr as he takes us through his journey from South Africa to Manchester and what it’s really like playing for Sale Sharks. He opens up about leaving home, adapting to life in the UK, and how his trademark side step has been getting fans and defenders talking overseas. The conversation also turns to the habits and mindset needed to succeed at the highest level, along with a unique Sharks vs Sharks experience and how it felt going up against familiar faces. We wrap things up with our BrightRock Love Change studio segment, answer some meaningful questions, and announce the Switch Giveaway winner. Real stories, honest insights, and proper rugby chat. This one’s not to be missed. 🎧 Like, subscribe, and join the Behind the Ruck community Chapters: 00:00 Intro 04:24 Investec Champions Cup Fixtures 16:47 Investec Champs Cup Predictions 19:29 Gurshwin Wehr Interview 21:22 Going to Manchester, Playing for Sale Sharks 29:27 Experience Leaving SA 37:14 UK's Reaction to Gurshwin's Magic Side-step 40:22 Brightrock Love Change Studio Segment 50:57 Habits Needed for Professional Success 54:26 Sharks VS Sharks Experience 01:02:00 Brightrock Love Change Questions 01:08:04 Switch Giveaway Winner 01:09:39 Credits Behind the Ruck is supported by SuperSportBET, make sure you place your bets this weekend: https://www.supersportbet.com/ A big shoutout to our official apparel sponsor, Macron! 🏅 Don’t miss their incredible range—check it out here: https://www.macron.com/wo?srsltid=AfmBOoqOB-JWRvQJmCE3GhkXhChu0fIbRexUKUcDe_OBCk6-PQQKURkb Our audio sponsor for this episode is PlanetWorld South Africa. Check out their services and products on their website:https://www.planetworld.co.za Connect with us on our social pages 👇 WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaybG05H5JLs9rvAD321 Website: https://www.behindtheruckpodcast.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/behindtheruckpodcast?igsh=MWQzcWM0OTg1eTli Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094862943119 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@behindtheruckpodcast?_t=8p5FQddj1mv&_r=1

In this episode of Behind the Ruck, we catch up with Paul Adams, one of South African cricket’s most memorable spinners 🏏 From his unique bowling action to pulling on the Proteas jersey at just 18, Paul opens up about his journey in the game and the moments that shaped him. We chat about spin bowling, coaching, and how players and fans reacted to his style over the years. Paul also shares what it was like meeting Nelson Mandela, the work he’s doing through the Paul Adams Foundation, and the challenges he faced during his career before moving into coaching. We wrap things up with a Switch Giveaway, a meaningful Brightrock Love Change Moment, and a look ahead at the Investec Champions Cup fixtures. If you enjoyed the episode, make sure to like, subscribe, and drop a comment below. Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:50 Switch Giveaway 04:34 Paul Adams Interview 07:26 Spin Bowling Techniques and Coaching 13:13 Reactions to Paul's Unique Bowling 21:25 Playing for SA at 18, Meeting Madiba 29:56 Paul Adams Foundation 36:44 Career Challenges, Moving into Coaching 45:32 Brightrock Love Change Moment 51:20 Investec Champions Cup Fixtures 59:46 Credits Behind the Ruck is supported by SuperSportBET, make sure you place your bets this weekend: https://www.supersportbet.com/ A big shoutout to our official apparel sponsor, Macron! 🏅 Don’t miss their incredible range—check it out here: https://www.macron.com/wo?srsltid=AfmBOoqOB-JWRvQJmCE3GhkXhChu0fIbRexUKUcDe_OBCk6-PQQKURkb Our audio sponsor for this episode is PlanetWorld South Africa. Check out their services and products on their website:https://www.planetworld.co.za Connect with us on our social pages 👇 WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaybG05H5JLs9rvAD321 Website: https://www.behindtheruckpodcast.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/behindtheruckpodcast?igsh=MWQzcWM0OTg1eTli Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094862943119 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@behindtheruckpodcast?_t=8p5FQddj1mv&_r=1

In this episode of Behind the Ruck, we sit down with Springbok legend Percy Montgomery for an honest, reflective, and forward-looking conversation that hits on rugby, leadership, and life beyond the game. We kick things off by unpacking the vision for Behind the Ruck heading into 2026, what we’re building, and why the community always comes first. From there, Percy shares his take on the 2025 Springbok season, breaking down what impressed him, how the Boks have evolved, and what still excites him about South African rugby. Percy opens up about his time working under Rassie Erasmus, the standards that shaped him, and how pressure moments like kicking in big Test matches defined his mindset. He also reflects on his journey to 100 Test caps, the lessons learned from adversity, and how those moments shaped who he is today. We close things off with a powerful Brightrock Love Change Moment, diving into coaching, life after rugby, El Centurion, and bold predictions for 2026. Real conversations. Real lessons. One of the greats. If you’re about SA rugby, growth, and the stories behind the jersey, this one’s for you. Chapters: 00:00 Intro 03:50 BTR Goals for 2026 05:57 Percy Montgomery Interview 09:24 2025 Springbok Recap from Percy 16:17 Percy's Experience with Rassie 24:37 Banning Incident 29:44 Percy's Journey to 100 caps 42:00 Kicking Under Pressure 46:31 Brightrock Love Change Moment - Coaching, El Centurion 53:39 2026 Predictions 57:58 Credits Behind the Ruck is supported by SuperSportBET, make sure you place your bets this weekend: https://www.supersportbet.com/ A big shoutout to our official apparel sponsor, Macron! 🏅 Don’t miss their incredible range—check it out here: https://www.macron.com/wo?srsltid=AfmBOoqOB-JWRvQJmCE3GhkXhChu0fIbRexUKUcDe_OBCk6-PQQKURkb Our audio sponsor for this episode is PlanetWorld South Africa. Check out their services and products on their website: https://www.planetworld.co.za Connect with us on our social pages 👇 WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaybG05H5JLs9rvAD321 Website: https://www.behindtheruckpodcast.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/behindtheruckpodcast?igsh=MWQzcWM0OTg1eTli Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094862943119 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@behindtheruckpodcast?_t=8p5FQddj1mv&_r=1

In this episode of Behind the Ruck, the boys sit down with Conrad Jantjes for an honest and wide ranging conversation about life in rugby and beyond. From his playing days to what keeps him busy after rugby, Conrad opens up about balancing different sports, work, and the realities of life once the boots are hung up. The chat then dives into the tougher moments of his early career and the challenges that shaped him along the way. Conrad reflects on his journey to the Springboks, what that moment meant to him, and the decisions that followed including his move from the Lions to the Stormers. He also shares his views on the current Springboks setup and where South African rugby is heading. To wrap things up, the conversation shifts to Conrad’s love for football, how close he came to a return to playing, and his growing passion for cricket. He offers valuable advice for young sportsmen coming through the system and finishes off with his predictions for the upcoming SA20. Real stories, real insight, and proper South African sport chat. 👇 Like, subscribe, and join the conversation Chapters: 00:00 Intro 02:21 Conrad Jantjes Interview 05:31 Playing Other Sports, Work Post-Rugby 17:05 Early Career Challenges 25:32 Springbok Journey 35:25 Moving from Lions to Stormers 44:05 Thoughts on Current Springboks 53:37 Football Love, Near Return to Playing 01:04:07 Love for Cricket, Advice for Sports Youth 01:10:02 SA20 Predictions 01:15:37 Credits Behind the Ruck is supported by SuperSportBET, make sure you place your bets this weekend: https://www.supersportbet.com/ A big shoutout to our official apparel sponsor, Macron! 🏅 Don’t miss their incredible range—check it out here: https://www.macron.com/wo?srsltid=AfmBOoqOB-JWRvQJmCE3GhkXhChu0fIbRexUKUcDe_OBCk6-PQQKURkb Our audio sponsor for this episode is PlanetWorld South Africa. Check out their services and products on their website: https://www.planetworld.co.za Connect with us on our social pages 👇 WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaybG05H5JLs9rvAD321 Website: https://www.behindtheruckpodcast.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/behindtheruckpodcast?igsh=MWQzcWM0OTg1eTli Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094862943119 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@behindtheruckpodcast?_t=8p5FQddj1mv&_r=1

In this episode of Behind the Ruck, Rudy and Juan sit down with Asenathi Ntlabakanye as he opens up about his incredible rugby journey. We kick things off with a powerful conversation about his roots, identity, and the mindset that shaped him into the player he is today. We then dive into his upbringing in Plett and Stithian’s, how those environments influenced his confidence, and the moment rugby became a serious path. Asenathi talks us through getting the call-up to the Springboks, what that debut truly meant, and what it was like packing down in the scrum alongside seasoned Bok veterans under Coach Daan. The technical detail and respect for the craft is unreal. To close, we go deeper than rugby: weight, identity, and pressure in professional sport; Christmas wishes and what he hopes for his family and community; and finally, Asenathi lays down his ambitions for 2026 on and off the field. It’s honest, inspiring, and full of heart. Enjoy the ride! 🟢💛🏉 Chapters: 00:00 Intro 04:46 Asenathi Ntlabakanye Interview 08:07 Growing Up in Plett, Stithian's 20:48 Springbok Call-up and Debut 34:03 Scrumming with the Bokke, Coach Daan 42:14 Experiences with Weight 45:35 Asenathi's Christmas Wishes 47:52 2026 Ambitions 52:53 Credits A big shoutout to our official apparel sponsor, Macron! 🏅 Don’t miss their incredible range—check it out here: https://www.macron.com/wo?srsltid=AfmBOoqOB-JWRvQJmCE3GhkXhChu0fIbRexUKUcDe_OBCk6-PQQKURkb Our audio sponsor for this episode is PlanetWorld South Africa. Check out their services and products on their website: https://www.planetworld.co.za Connect with us on our social pages 👇 WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaybG05H5JLs9rvAD321 Website: https://www.behindtheruckpodcast.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/behindtheruckpodcast?igsh=MWQzcWM0OTg1eTli Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094862943119 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@behindtheruckpodcast?_t=8p5FQddj1mv&_r=1

🔥 NEW EPISODE OUT NOW! We sit down with Morné van den Berg as he opens up about Springbok camp culture, learning the 9 jersey, the meaning of Lions Rugby and Ellis Park, life off the field, 2025 highlights, 2026 goals, future ambitions, and a look at the Investec Champions Cup fixtures. This one is packed ruckers don’t miss it! 💬🏉 #BehindTheRuck #RugbyFamily Chapters: 00:00 Intro 05:12 Morné van den Berg Interview 10:16 Springbok Camp Culture and Learnings 17:06 Learning To Play 9 Position 25:07 Significance of Lions Rugby, Ellis Park 33:58 Usual Lions Training Program 37:33 Life Off the Field 40:23 2025 Season Achievements, 2026 Goals 46:07 Future Plans and Ambitions 49:50 Investec Champions Cup Fixtures 01:01:06 Credits A big shoutout to our official apparel sponsor, Macron! 🏅 Don’t miss their incredible range—check it out here: https://www.macron.com/wo?srsltid=AfmBOoqOB-JWRvQJmCE3GhkXhChu0fIbRexUKUcDe_OBCk6-PQQKURkb Our audio sponsor for this episode is PlanetWorld South Africa. Check out their services and products on their website:https://www.planetworld.co.za Connect with us on our social pages 👇 WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaybG05H5JLs9rvAD321 Website: https://www.behindtheruckpodcast.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/behindtheruckpodcast?igsh=MWQzcWM0OTg1eTli Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094862943119 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@behindtheruckpodcast?_t=8p5FQddj1mv&_r=1

Gio Aplon joins Behind the Ruck for a massive breakdown of where the SPRINGBOKS stand right now and what the future could look like as we head toward the 2027 Rugby World Cup. The episode kicks off with questions from the audience before diving into a full reflection on Springbok rugby in 2025 and the key areas where the Boks have grown. 🇿🇦🔥 The crew then dig into the evolution of our game with a look at Tony Ball, Rassie Ball and the rise of Rony Ball, unpacking what has changed and what still needs to improve. From analysing strengths in the current system to identifying the gaps that still need sharpening, this section delivers honest debate, discussion and deep analysis. 🏉💬 To wrap things up they look outward at the global landscape, comparing the form of England, Ireland and the All Blacks before asking the big question… do we already have our 2027 Rugby World Cup squad? It gets real, it gets detailed and it is essential viewing for any Springbok supporter. 🇿🇦🔥🏉 Chapters: 00:00 Intro 02:50 Questions from the audience 08:06 Looking back at Springbok Rugby in 2025 21:13 Where Have the Boks Improved? 32:30 Tony-Ball, Rassie-ball, Rony-ball 42:09 Where CAN the Boks Improve? 49:47 Form of Other Teams - England 55:21 Form of Other Teams - Ireland 01:02:20 Form of Other Teams - All Blacks 01:13:59 Do We Have Our 2027 RWC Squad? 01:18:59 Credits Behind the Ruck is supported by SuperSportBET, make sure you place your bets this weekend: https://www.supersportbet.com/ A big shoutout to our official apparel sponsor, Macron! 🏅 Don’t miss their incredible range—check it out here: https://www.macron.com/wo?srsltid=AfmBOoqOB-JWRvQJmCE3GhkXhChu0fIbRexUKUcDe_OBCk6-PQQKURkb Our audio sponsor for this episode is PlanetWorld South Africa. Check out their services and products on their website: https://www.planetworld.co.za Connect with us on our social pages 👇 WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaybG05H5JLs9rvAD321 Website: https://www.behindtheruckpodcast.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/behindtheruckpodcast?igsh=MWQzcWM0OTg1eTli Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094862943119 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@behindtheruckpodcast?_t=8p5FQddj1mv&_r=1

In this week’s episode, we kick things off with an in-depth conversation with Dylan Maart as he shares his journey into professional rugby and how he found his way into the Stormers setup 🏉. From early opportunities to recent milestones, Dylan opens up about the moments that shaped his rise and the achievements that put his name firmly on the radar ⭐️. We then dive into major rugby moments reflecting on the Currie Cup Final before shifting into Dylan’s inspiring grind off the field. From working as a taxi guard 🚕 to finding success at Paarl Valley Bottling 🍾, he talks about the hustle, the balance, and the mindset it took to keep his rugby dreams alive while still handling real world responsibilities. It is raw, honest, and exactly the kind of story that defines the spirit of the game 💪. To wrap things up, Dylan takes us back to growing up in Peyton Place and the powerful influence of his mom ❤️ before we look ahead to all the rugby action coming up. We break down the upcoming fixtures including the Springboks vs Wales clash 🇿🇦🐉 and what to expect in the next round of URC matchups 🔥. Strap in, this episode is packed with heart, hustle, and proper rugby insight. Chapters: 00:00 Intro 02:51 Dylan Maart Interview 04:24 Joining the Stormers 10:33 Recent Achievements 19:07 Currie Cup Final 26:45 Coming Up, Working as a Taxi Gaurd 31:36 Working at Paarl Valley Bottling, Success There 42:07 Pursuing Rugby Seriously, Still Balancing Work 48:18 Growing Up in Peyton Place, Mom's Influence 58:27 Upcoming Fixtures - Boks VS Wales 01:02:14 Upcoming Fixtures - URC 01:08:48 Credits A big shoutout to our official apparel sponsor, Macron! 🏅 Don’t miss their incredible range—check it out here: https://www.macron.com/wo?srsltid=AfmBOoqOB-JWRvQJmCE3GhkXhChu0fIbRexUKUcDe_OBCk6-PQQKURkb Our audio sponsor for this episode is PlanetWorld South Africa. Check out their services and products on their website: https://www.planetworld.co.za Connect with us on our social pages 👇 WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaybG05H5JLs9rvAD321 Website: https://www.behindtheruckpodcast.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/behindtheruckpodcast?igsh=MWQzcWM0OTg1eTli Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094862943119 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@behindtheruckpodcast?_t=8p5FQddj1mv&_r=1

The episode kicks off with a full breakdown of the upcoming fixtures and a deep dive into the Springboks vs Ireland clash, followed by a look at the World Rugby Player of the Year nominees. From there, the guys sit down with Saldanha Rugby Club to unpack their current season, form, coaching approach, leadership dynamic, and the unique identity that sets Saldanha Bay apart. Things heat up with a fun round of quickfire questions before moving into the next feature interview. Roses United joins the show next, sharing insights on their semi final experience, the shift in team culture, and what it takes to prepare for a final at the highest level, setting the stage perfectly for the much anticipated Sanlam Boland Top 12 Final, one of the biggest community rugby showdowns of the year. The episode wraps with player questions and a final round of shoutouts as Rudy and Juan close things off in true BTR spirit. Strap in for rugby stories, honest conversations, and the passion that keeps the game alive across every level. Chapters: 00:00 Intro 03:37 Fixtures, Boks VS Ireland Discussion 11:40 World Rugby POtY Nominees 14:50 Interview with Saldanha Rugby Club 16:29 Current Season and form 20:39 Coaching and Leadership in the team 28:05 Saldanha Bay's Point of Difference 38:39 Quickfire questions 42:05 Interview with Roses United 42:38 Semi-final Experience 54:03 Adjusting to the Team Culture 01:01:09 Prepping for the Final 01:05:48 Player Questions 01:09:22 Closing Shoutouts Behind the Ruck is supported by SuperSportBET, make sure you place your bets this weekend: https://www.supersportbet.com/ A big shoutout to our official apparel sponsor, Macron! 🏅 Don’t miss their incredible range—check it out here: https://www.macron.com/wo?srsltid=AfmBOoqOB-JWRvQJmCE3GhkXhChu0fIbRexUKUcDe_OBCk6-PQQKURkb Our audio sponsor for this episode is PlanetWorld South Africa. Check out their services and products on their website:https://www.planetworld.co.za Connect with us on our social pages 👇 WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaybG05H5JLs9rvAD321 Website: https://www.behindtheruckpodcast.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/behindtheruckpodcast?igsh=MWQzcWM0OTg1eTli Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094862943119 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@behindtheruckpodcast?_t=8p5FQddj1mv&_r=1

In this episode, we kick things off with an exciting Boktown ticket giveaway for fans ready to back the Bokke in style. Then we sit down with none other than Juarno “Trokkie” Augustus — the powerhouse eighthman making waves up north. From his days in Cape Town to becoming a key figure at Ulster and Northampton Saints, Trokkie shares his incredible rugby journey and what it’s been like competing in the Northern Hemisphere.We dive into the challenges of moving to England, adapting to new playing styles, and balancing life far from home. Trokkie opens up about his Springbok ambitions, what drives him to keep improving, and how he stays grounded off the field. Expect honest reflections, laughter, and a few stories that show a side of Trokkie fans don’t often see.To wrap things up, we chat about playing style, Trokkie’s advice for young players chasing their rugby dreams, and we break down the upcoming fixtures — including the highly anticipated Bokke vs France clash. It’s a full episode of passion, insight, and pure rugby energy you don’t want to miss. 💚🇿🇦Chapters:00:00 Intro04:02 Boktown Ticket Giveaway06:32 Juarno 'Trokkie' Augustus Interview09:10 Playing for Ulster and NH Saints16:04 Challenges of Moving To England28:15 Springbok Ambitions34:49 Life Off the Field40:20 Playing Style, Advice for Young Players54:10 Fixtures Discussion and Predictions, Bokke VS France01:03:58 CreditsA big shoutout to our official apparel sponsor, Macron! 🏅 Don’t miss their incredible range—check it out here: https://www.macron.com/wo?srsltid=AfmBOoqOB-JWRvQJmCE3GhkXhChu0fIbRexUKUcDe_OBCk6-PQQKURkbOur audio sponsor for this episode is PlanetWorld South Africa. Check out their services and products on their website:https://www.planetworld.co.zaConnect with us on our social pages 👇WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaybG05H5JLs9rvAD321Website: https://www.behindtheruckpodcast.com/Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/behindtheruckpodcast?igsh=MWQzcWM0OTg1eTliFacebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094862943119TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@behindtheruckpodcast?_t=8p5FQddj1mv&_r=1

This week on Behind the Ruck, we kick things off by announcing the winners of our Eben Etzebeth’s “Unlocked” book giveaway before diving straight into the latest fixtures and results shaking up the rugby world. Rudy and Juan share their takes on the upcoming clashes, standout players to watch, and which teams are finding their rhythm as the season heats up. Then, we sit down with none other than Nizaam Carr, a player whose journey through rugby has been filled with resilience and inspiration. From representing the Bulls and adapting to a new coach, to his time with the London Wasps and dealing with the challenges of retrenchment, Nizaam opens up about the realities of professional rugby and the mindset it takes to keep moving forward. He also reflects on his early career with the Stormers and Springboks, and what it meant to make history as the first Muslim Springbok. Nizaam speaks candidly about the role of faith in his life, the fine line between luck and hard work, and how he balances confidence without arrogance. Wrapping up, he shares touching stories about his roots in Mitchells Plain, the guidance of his father, and his heartfelt advice to the next generation chasing their rugby dreams. Chapters: 00:00 Intro 04:12 Book Giveaway Winners! 05:46 Fixtures Discussion 16:02 Nizaam Carr Interview 19:34 Playing for the Bulls, New Coach Experience 30:38 Experience Playing for London Wasps, Retrenchment 35:14 Early Career, Stormers and Springboks 41:34 Being the first Muslim Springbok, Role of Faith 47:07 Luck VS Achievements, Arrogance VS Confidence 51:26 Mitchells Plain Community, Role of Nizaam's Father 59:57 Advice to Younger Generation 01:08:43 Credits A big shoutout to our official apparel sponsor, Macron! 🏅 Don’t miss their incredible range—check it out here: https://www.macron.com/wo?srsltid=AfmBOoqOB-JWRvQJmCE3GhkXhChu0fIbRexUKUcDe_OBCk6-PQQKURkb Our audio sponsor for this episode is PlanetWorld South Africa. Check out their services and products on their website:https://www.planetworld.co.za Connect with us on our social pages 👇 WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaybG05H5JLs9rvAD321 Website: https://www.behindtheruckpodcast.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/behindtheruckpodcast?igsh=MWQzcWM0OTg1eTli Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094862943119 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@behindtheruckpodcast?_t=8p5FQddj1mv&_r=1

In this episode of Behind the Ruck, the boys sit down with Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick, who recently celebrated an incredible milestone; 100 games with the Bokke. He opens up about his journey from player to coach, the lessons learned along the way, and what it truly means to represent and serve the nation through rugby. Stick dives deep into the mindset and dynamics behind one of the greatest Springbok eras. He shares insight into managing player and coach egos, building a diverse and aligned coaching team, and what it takes to keep the squad grounded while performing at the highest level. He also talks about joining Roc Nation, and the role of purpose and unity in driving long-term success. The conversation wraps up with a look at the remainder of the 2025 fixtures, future goals for the team, and a discussion around the upcoming touring squad. From leadership philosophies to the brotherhood that fuels South African rugby, this episode is packed with wisdom, laughter, and that signature Behind the Ruck energy. Chapters: 00:00 Intro 02:54 Interview with Mzwandile Stick 03:52 Reaching 100 Caps with the Bokke 09:43 Deciding to move into Coaching 19:06 Working With The Best Springbok Era to Serve the Nation 25:26 Managing Player and Coach Egos 35:20 Bok Coaching Staff Diversity and Alignment Strategy 46:20 Joining RocNation 49:21 Plan for Remaining 2025 Fixtures, Future Goals 56:23 Touring Squad Discussion 01:02:57 Credits Behind the Ruck is supported by SuperSportBET, make sure you place your bets this weekend: https://www.supersportbet.com/ A big shoutout to our official apparel sponsor, Macron! 🏅 Don’t miss their incredible range—check it out here: https://www.macron.com/wo?srsltid=AfmBOoqOB-JWRvQJmCE3GhkXhChu0fIbRexUKUcDe_OBCk6-PQQKURkb Our audio sponsor for this episode is PlanetWorld South Africa. Check out their services and products on their website:https://www.planetworld.co.za Connect with us on our social pages 👇 WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaybG05H5JLs9rvAD321 Website: https://www.behindtheruckpodcast.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/behindtheruckpodcast?igsh=MWQzcWM0OTg1eTli Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094862943119 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@behindtheruckpodcast?_t=8p5FQddj1mv&_r=1

In this week’s episode of Behind the Ruck, we sit down with Boland Cavaliers captain Thurlow Marsh - a man who’s not only leading on the rugby field but also serving his community as a police detective. He opens up about balancing life between law enforcement and professional rugby, the challenges and rewards that come with both, and what it means to be recognised as a role model in the Boland region. Thurlow shares heartfelt stories about his journey from school rugby to captaining Boland, and the pride he feels representing his community. We dive into the culture of rugby in the Boland. From passionate Sunday games to the deep respect shared between the Kavaliers and URC-level teams like the Stormers. This conversation is a powerful reminder of how sport can unite and uplift entire communities. Rudy and Juan wrap up the episode with their take on the latest URC results, bold predictions for the upcoming fixtures, and reflections on the Currie Cup season and Boland’s inspiring performances. Tune in for a lekker honest conversation. Chapters: 00:00 - Intro 02:42 - Thurlow Marsh Interview 03:48 - Balancing Detective and Rugby Duties 09:02 - Being Recognised While On Duty 17:00 - Boland Sundays, Connection with Community 26:08 - Playing URC Level Teams, Respect Between Kavaliers and Stormers 29:17 - Journey From School Rugby to Boland Captain 41:21 - Power of Club Rugby in Boland Region 52:07 - URC Results Discussion 01:06:58 - URC Fixtures and Predictions 01:10:30 - Credits Behind the Ruck is supported by SuperSportBET, make sure you place your bets this weekend: https://www.supersportbet.com/ A big shoutout to our official apparel sponsor, Macron! 🏅 Don’t miss their incredible range—check it out here: https://www.macron.com/wo?srsltid=AfmBOoqOB-JWRvQJmCE3GhkXhChu0fIbRexUKUcDe_OBCk6-PQQKURkb Our audio sponsor for this episode is PlanetWorld South Africa. Check out their services and products on their website:https://www.planetworld.co.za Connect with us on our social pages 👇 WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaybG05H5JLs9rvAD321 Website: https://www.behindtheruckpodcast.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/behindtheruckpodcast?igsh=MWQzcWM0OTg1eTli Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094862943119 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@behindtheruckpodcast?_t=8p5FQddj1mv&_r=1