Behind the Ruck

Behind the Ruck
  • 4.8 (19)
  • RUGBY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Rugby’s funniest duo — Rudy Paige & Juan De Jongh (Springboks, Stormers, Blue Bulls)Provides next-level access to life in rugby union as it unfolds. They will drop insights about past experiences, current games and share unique perspectives on trending rugby news and headlines. Off-field interests, and engaging conversations with special guests.    Watch and listen to new episodes during the rugby season & check out Instagram, Twitter and TikTok for all the best moments from the show. 

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    BTR Ep. 145 Sione Tuipulotu Opens Up on Captaincy Pressure and His Journey to Scotland

    Sione Tuipulotu joins us for a proper chat as we dive straight into his journey, unpacking his life in Scotland and what it has really been like settling into a new rugby culture. From the inside look at Glasgow Warriors to how he has grown within that environment, this episode sets the tone with honesty and perspective. We get into the realities of handling social media as a professional athlete and how he keeps his focus where it matters most. There is a strong emphasis on the joy of competing, what drives him week in and week out, and how that passion translates onto the field, especially when representing at the highest level. The conversation shifts into big stage rugby with insights into the Six Nations and what that competition means to him. He reflects on his childhood in Australia and the journey that shaped him, leading all the way to the honour and responsibility of becoming the Scottish national captain. We wrap things up with a powerful look at his Tonga connection and a special Brightrock Love Change studio moment that hits home. Then it is back to Behind the Ruck energy as we break down the latest URC results and look ahead to the upcoming fixtures. Chapters: 00:00 Intro 03:15 Lineup 04:27 Interview with Sione Tuipulotu 06:55 Life in Scotland 07:43 Glasgow Warriors 20:11 Handling social media 22:24 The joy of competing 29:10 The 6 Nations Cup 35:35 Childhood in Australia 41:21 On becoming the Scottish national rugby captain 46:12 The Tonga connection 50:42 Brightrock #Lovechange Studio Moment 53:36 URC results 58:37 URC Fixtures 01:01:29 Sponsors and goodbye 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

    1hr 2min

  2. 1 DAY AGO

    BTR Ep. 144 | RUHAN NEL SPEAKS OUT: Inside the Stormers Mindset, Toulon Battle, URC Strategy and Rugby’s New Era

    This episode of BTR kicks off with a look at the Burger King SA competition and what fans can get involved in, before diving into the full lineup for the show and setting the stage for a packed rugby conversation. We sit down with Ruhan Nel for an in depth interview covering his journey, mindset and experiences in the game. The conversation also explores the Toulon fixture and what it means in the wider context of his career and modern rugby demands. From there the focus shifts into the DHL Stormers URC standings and the strategy shaping their season, along with a wider discussion on Springboks potentially linking up with the Stormers. We also unpack modern rugby leadership, how captains and coaches are evolving, and the growing synergy between sevens and fifteen man rugby. Later in the episode we reflect on Ruhan Nel’s career journey in full, followed by a Brightrock Love Change Studio Moment centred around becoming a parent. We also pay tribute to Chippy Solomons before closing with fixtures and predictions brought to you by Burger King, rounding off a loaded rugby discussion from start to finish. Chapters: 00:00 Intro 02:57 Burger King SA competition 03:38 Lineup 04:19 Interview with Ruhan Nel 06:11 The Toulon game 13:17 URC Stormers standings and strategy 24:26 Springboks joining the Stormers 26:21 Modern rugby leadership, captains and coaches 30:27 Synergy between 7s and 15s rugby 34:43 Ruhan's rugby career 45:55 Brightrock #LoveChange Studio Moment - having a baby 49:09 Tribute to Chippy Solomons 57:19 Fixtures and predictions - by Burger King 01:03:28 Goodbye 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

    1hr 4min

  3. 1 DAY AGO

    BTR Ep. 143 | Ezekiel Ngobeni Opens Up on Varsity Cup Pressure, New Rules & His Rise to the Top 👀🔥

    🔥 It all kicks off with a classic Behind the Ruck moment as the boys dive into a Burger King special before locking in the lineup for the episode. The energy is high, the banter is flowing, and it sets the tone for what’s to come as they welcome a rising name in South African rugby. 🏉 The spotlight then shifts to Ezekiel Ngobeni, who joins the show for a proper chat about his journey and everything happening around the Varsity Cup. From the impact of the new tap rule to how the competition is evolving, this segment gives real insight into the game at university level. He also opens up about the pressure of playing at scrumhalf and what it really takes to own the number 9 jersey. 💭 Things get deeper as Ezekiel shares his pathway to where he is today, giving Ruckers a look at the work behind the scenes. The Brightrock Love Change studio moment brings a powerful story about landing the job, adding a motivational layer to the episode that goes beyond rugby and into real life lessons. 📊 To wrap it up, the boys break down the latest results from the Challenge Cup and Investec Champions Cup, before looking ahead to the upcoming fixtures. They also give their takes on the Varsity Cup Shield and the big final, closing off the episode with predictions, energy, and appreciation for the sponsors that keep the show going. #RuckersUnite Chapters: 00:00 Intro 03:57 Burger King special 05:44 Lineup 06:37 Interview with Ezekiel Ngobeni 07:24 Varsity Cup 13:54 New Tap Rule 21:30 Pressure of playing #9 23:49 Varsity Cup Final predictions 27:03 Ezekiel's path to today 44:49 Brightrock #LoveChange Studio Moment : Landing the Job 50:00 Results: Challenge Cup and Investec Champions Cup 56:43 Fixtures: Investec Champions Cup 58:13 Fixtures: Varsity Cup Shield and Varsity Cup Final 58:41 Outro and Sponsors 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

    59 min

  4. 1 DAY AGO

    BTR Ep. 142 | Pierre Schoeman: From SA to Scotland… The Untold Truth About Scottish Rugby and Lions Tour 👀🏴

    The boys are joined by Scotland powerhouse Pierre Schoeman for a proper catch up on Behind the Ruck! From the moment he steps in, it’s all energy as we dive into his rugby journey, how things have been going lately, and his thoughts on the current Six Nations Championship. You’ll hear his perspective on the Scottish setup, what makes their rugby culture unique, and reflections on World Cup experiences and traditions that shape the team. We also get into life beyond the pitch as Pierre opens up about adapting to life in Scotland. From cultural shifts to personal growth, it’s an honest look at what it takes to build a life and career far from home. The conversation then heats up as we chat about the upcoming British and Irish Lions Tour 2025 in Australia and what it would mean to be part of such a historic tour. Things get more personal as Pierre shares what truly drives him, the mindset behind his performances, and the key people who have backed him throughout his journey. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of support systems in elite sport. We also have a special BrightRock Love Change studio moment that brings some real emotion and a surprise you don’t want to miss. To wrap it up, the boys break down the latest action in the United Rugby Championship with a look at recent results, before shifting focus to the Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup fixtures. Plus, we give our predictions for the big South African clashes, including the Stormers and Bulls. #RuckersUnite 🏉🔥 Chapters: 00:00 Intro 02:37 Lineup 03:40 Interview with Pierre Schoeman 05:29 Rugby career catchup 07:16 6 Nations 14:12 Scotland RWC and rugby traditions 22:00 Adapting to life in Scotland 29:47 British and Irish Lions tour 2025 - Australia 44:47 What drives Pierre Schoeman 52:05 People who have supported Pierre on his rugby journey 54:11 Brightrock #LoveChange Studio Moment - popping the question 01:00:15 URC Week 14 results and discussion 01:02:33 Investec Champions Cup and Challenge Cup fixtures 01:03:03 Predictions for Stormers and Bulls games 01:06:09 Sponsors and goodbye Against the Grain: https://againstthegrainscotland.co.uk 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

    1hr 7min

  5. 25 MAR

    BTR Ep. 141 | Markus Muller: From Schoolboy Rugby Sensation to the DHL Stormers… and That Springbok Call Up 🚀🏉

    This episode kicks off with a look at LIV Golf before we sit down with rising star Markus Muller for an in depth conversation you do not want to miss. We unpack his recent call up to the Springbok alignment camp, dive into different coaching styles, and reflect on his journey through school and schoolboy rugby that shaped him into the player he is today. We get into the details of his preferred position between inside and outside centre, his early leadership experiences, and the role his friends and family have played along the way. Markus also takes us back to that unforgettable Interschools clash, shares his future ambitions, and opens up about joining the Stormers and his involvement with SAS Rugby. The conversation continues with an honest look at areas of improvement in his game, including his kicking, while also reflecting on the rugby heroes he looked up to growing up. We add some fun with our Center of Attention game and get to know Markus off the field as he shares more about his hobbies, plus a special Brightrock Love Change Studio moment. To wrap things up, we shift back into rugby talk as we break down the latest URC results and look ahead to the upcoming fixtures with our predictions. Another jam packed episode filled with insight, energy, and everything you love about Behind the Ruck. #RuckersUnite Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:42 LIV Golf 04:37 Lineup 07:02 Interview with Markus Muller 10:55 Springbok Alignment Camp 18:41 Different coaching styles 19:32 School and schoolboy rugby 26:02 Playing #12 or #13 27:53 Rugby leadership experience 29:38 Friends and family 31:43 THAT Interschools game 34:56 Future plans 35:44 Joining the Stormers 37:37 SAS Rugby involvement 38:34 Areas of Improvement 40:07 Kicking 42:36 Childhood rugby heroes 46:05 Center of Attention game 49:20 Hobbies 50:09 Brightrock #Lovechange Studio Moment 53:18 URC Week 13 Results - discussion 57:52 URC Week 14 Fixtures and predictions 59:20 Outro 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

    1 hr

  6. 25 MAR

    BTR Ep. 140 | Springboks in Trouble? The Age Debate + All Blacks Comparison Gets HEATED 🔥

    The episode kicks off with the friend of the show Gio Aplon, bringing energy, insight and plenty of laughs. The boys dive straight into the iconic North South Derby, unpacking the intensity, key moments and what it means for South African rugby right now. From there, the conversation shifts to the Springboks and the ever present age factor. Is experience still king or is it time for a new generation to rise? The debate gets real as they break down the balance between youth and legacy in the national setup. A major talking point follows with Rassie Erasmus extending his contract until 2031. The guys weigh up the pros and cons of long term leadership, what it means for continuity, and whether this is the move that secures sustained dominance or limits fresh evolution. To wrap things up, they touch on the excitement around Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Tour and the latest from the Six Nations before delivering a memorable Brightrock Love Change Studio moment where Gio takes things to another level and pops the question. A proper mix of rugby, banter and real life moments that you do not want to miss. Chapters: 00:00 Intro 02:53 Lineup with friend of the show, Gio Aplon 04:06 North South Derby 27:14 Springboks - the age factor 42:25 Rassie signed until 2031 - pros and cons 50:47 Rugby's Greatest Rivalry Tour 54:40 Six Nations 01:07:41 Brightrock #LoveChange Studio moment - Gio pops the question 01:10:31 Outro 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

    1hr 11min

  7. 25 MAR

    BTR Ep. 139 | Stormers vs Bulls Drama, Six Nations Chaos & Is This the End for Western Province?

    In this episode of Behind the Ruck, the boys unpack the North South Derby between the Blue Bulls and the Stormers. They break down the intensity of the rivalry, the key moments from the match, and what the result means for both teams moving forward. The conversation then shifts to the latest action from the Six Nations Championship, as Rudy and Juan analyse the results from the fourth round. They highlight the standout performances, big talking points, and which teams have built momentum heading into the final week. Looking ahead, the hosts discuss the upcoming fixtures in the final round of the Six Nations Championship, sharing their thoughts on the matchups and what could unfold as the tournament reaches its conclusion. The episode also features a special Brightrock #LoveChange Studio Moment before ending with a discussion about the future of Western Province in the Currie Cup, and what it could mean for one of South Africa’s most historic rugby unions. 🏉 #RuckersUnite Chapters: 00:00 Intro 02:26 Show Lineup 04:49 North South Derby 24:13 Six Nations Week 4 Results and analysis 38:08 Six Nations Week 5 Fixtures and discussion 41:42 Brightrock #LoveChange Studio Moment 43:36 The end of Western Province in the Curry Cup 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

    47 min

  8. 25 MAR

    BTR Ep. 138 | Eddie Jones Opens Up about the Springbok's early peak, Modern Rugby and the Misconceptions About Him

    Eddie Jones joins Behind the Ruck for a powerful and honest conversation that starts with his current view on the global game and the evolution of the Six Nations. We unpack how rugby is changing, the tactical shifts at the top level, and dive into Japan versus South Africa as a fascinating clash of styles and philosophies. The conversation then turns to the big question many fans are asking: are the Springboks peaking too soon? Eddie takes us inside the team selection process, explaining what really goes into picking a squad at the highest level and the pressures coaches face behind closed doors. We also explore the personal side of his journey. From career challenges and resilience to his time with the Stormers and what it meant for his growth as a coach, before reflecting on the responsibility and intensity that came with leading England on the world stage. To close, we tackle the misconceptions surrounding Eddie Jones and share a special Brightrock Love Change studio moment. Juan and the team then break down the URC Week 12 results and look ahead to a massive Six Nations Week 4. Chapters: 00:00 Intro 02:29 Lineup 03:55 Eddie Jones interview 04:45 6 Nations and the changing game of rugby 07:02 Japan vs. South Africa 16:37 Are the Springboks peaking too soon? 22:28 We look inside the team selection process 26:36 Career challenges 29:36 The Stormers chapter 32:49 Coaching England 43:29 Misconceptions about Eddie Jones 45:32 Brightrock #Lovechange Studio moment 49:15 Results: URC Week 12 54:09 Fixtures: 6 Nations Week 4 56:59 Sponsors 57:15 Outro 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

    58 min
See All (131)

4.8
out of 5
19 Ratings

About

Rugby’s funniest duo — Rudy Paige & Juan De Jongh (Springboks, Stormers, Blue Bulls)Provides next-level access to life in rugby union as it unfolds. They will drop insights about past experiences, current games and share unique perspectives on trending rugby news and headlines. Off-field interests, and engaging conversations with special guests.    Watch and listen to new episodes during the rugby season & check out Instagram, Twitter and TikTok for all the best moments from the show. 

Information

  • Creator
    Behind the Ruck
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    131
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Behind the Ruck

You Might Also Like