Rugby Rivals - Sir John Kirwan & Victor Matfield

The Six Nations is done. And if you watched it, you'll know it was something special. JK, Victor Matfield and Andrew Trimble are back to break down what was one of the most compelling Six Nations in recent memory, and ask the question that's going to rile a few people in the southern hemisphere: is the Six Nations now the best rugby competition on the planet? Whether you're a diehard northern hemisphere fan or a Springbok supporter ready to fight back in the comments... this one's for you. Subscribe to make sure you never miss an episode!

France and England were supposed to be the heavyweights of this year's Six Nations... so what on earth happened this weekend? Sir John Kirwan and Victor Matfield react to the shock results, break down what went wrong for two of Europe's biggest rugby nations, and give their take on what it means for the rest of the tournament. Subscribe to Rugby Rivals so you never miss an episode!

Dave Rennie is the new All Blacks head coach — and the rugby world is reacting. On this episode of Rugby Rivals, Sir John Kirwan (All Blacks legend) and Victor Matfield (Springboks legend) give their immediate reaction to the appointment of Dave Rennie as the next All Blacks coach. What does Rennie bring to the role? How will his coaching style shape the next era of the All Blacks? And what challenges will he face leading one of the most scrutinised teams in world sport? JK and Victor break down Rennie’s track record, what his appointment means for New Zealand rugby, and how the rest of the rugby world — especially South Africa — will be viewing the decision. Subscribe to Rugby Rivals for weekly insights into the biggest stories in rugby.

Ireland go to Twickenham… and suddenly everything changes. Just weeks after talk of “crisis,” Ireland deliver a world-class performance against England. So, are they back on top of the world? Or was it just one emotional afternoon? This week on Rugby Rivals: Ireland’s statement win at Twickenham - turning point or overreaction? The promotion and relegation debate — should the Six Nations introduce jeopardy? Henry Pollock: impact weapon or future starter? Italy’s rise - best scrum in the Six Nations? All Blacks coaching update... what’s really happening behind the scenes? And finally… are South Africa still the best team in the world? Subscribe to us wherever you get podcasts, so you never miss an episode!

Was this just a loss — or a reality check? Victor Matfield and Sir John Kirwan dissect a Six Nations weekend that sent shockwaves through the tournament: Scotland overpower England. France look unstoppable. Ireland bounce back. Super Rugby begins. JK admits he misses South Africa from Super Rugby. Are England regressing? Is France already in a different tier? And what does this mean heading toward the business end of the tournament?

Rugby Rivals is BACK - with a recap for all the Six Nations action over the weekend. Sir John Kirwan, Victor Matfield, Andrew Trimble and producer Ric Salizzo break down all the biggest stories - and ask the question... Is this the end of Ireland’s golden era? Are France the best team in the world right now? England’s huge statement win after crushing Wales Italy’s rise continues with an upset 18–15 victory over Scotland . A massive opening round of the Six Nations - and the tournament already feels wide open.

In this special episode of Rugby Rivals, JK and Victor break down the shock decision to move on from Scott “Razor” Robertson as All Blacks coach - what went wrong, whether it was inevitable, and what it says about the pressure of leading New Zealand rugby. They discuss who’s next in line for the All Blacks job, whether Tony Brown could be tempted away from the Springboks setup, and the other international coaches who could be in line for a call up. We cast an eye ahead to the Six Nations and preview the All Blacks vs Springboks tour at the end of the year, and Victor's got a bold take... Get closer to the show and have your voice heard in our private community, The Rivals Rugby Club - join here: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17nhQTangN/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s our final episode of the year, and we’re sending 2025 off with The Rivals Awards Show, breaking down the Best, Worst and Most WTF Moments from a massive season of rugby.We’re handing out our end-of-year awards, including:🏆 Player of the Year🟥 Worst Red Card of the Year🌍 Team of the Year🚀 Future Superstar Award⏪ Team in Reverse Award🤯 Moment of the Year🔧 The One Thing Rugby MUST Change Next Year🧠 Coach of the YearPlus a full recap of the weekend’s international action and all the chaos, controversy and brilliance that defined rugby in 2025.Join our Facebook Group to get closer to the show: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17SfVayzoi/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're back for another big episode of Rugby Rivals.John Kirwan tries to make sense of the All Blacks’ latest stumble… Victor can’t get through 80 minutes without seeing red, and Trimby relishes in Ireland's whalloping of Australia. In this episode we cover:– What’s REALLY going on with the All Blacks right now– The Springboks’ red-card problem and how it’s costing them– Why Australia can’t catch a break– The biggest performances, turning points and tactical shifts from the weekend Watch, comment, and tell us your take below. Join our Facebook Group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/853841957325005See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Springboks reminded everyone why they’re the best in the world - overcoming France in Paris with only 14 men. Meanwhile, Damian McKenzie delivers another clutch moment to save the All Blacks in a thriller that had fans on edge till the final whistle in Scotland. Sir John Kirwan, Victor Matfield, and Andrew Trimble break down all the big moments from action packed weekend in world rugby. 🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts📺 Subscribe to Rugby Rivals on YouTube for weekly episodes💬 Join the Rivals Rugby Club on Facebook for exclusive clips and banter: See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Northern Tour served up another weekend of drama - starting with Tadhg Beirne's red card. Did the call ruin the match, or was it the right decision? JK, Victor Matfield and Andrew Trimble dig into all the big talking points, including the Springboks–France rivalry and why Victor is worried about what the French are building. We also chat Scotland - are they finally turning the corner, could they beat the All Blacks? If you’ve got a take on the red card, drop it in the comments – we want to hear it. Join our private Facebook Group to get closer to the show and join the conversation. 📱 Follow Rugby Rivals: Instagram: @rugby.rivals TikTok: @rugbyrivalsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Northern Hemisphere tour has officially kicked off, and the North vs. South rivalry is alive and well. Australia opened their campaign with a narrow win over Japan, and now the rest of the Southern giants head north. Sir John Kirwan, Victor Matfield and Andrew Trimble go head-to-head as they break down what’s ahead, who’s in form, and which hemisphere really holds the power in world rugby right now. 👉 Subscribe for weekly rugby chat with two of the game’s greats — insight, banter, and bold takes from both sides of the rivalry. #RugbyRivals #Springboks #AllBlacks #RugbyChampionship #VictorMatfield #JohnKirwan 📱 Follow Rugby Rivals: Instagram: @rugby.rivals TikTok: @rugbyrivalsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Rugby Championship is done and dusted - and the Springboks have gone back-to-back In this episode, Sir John Kirwan and Victor Matfield break down all the key moments from the tournament, what set the Boks apart, and how the All Blacks, Wallabies, and Pumas will be feeling heading into the next phase of the international season. The guys also look ahead to upcoming fixtures, coaching moves, and what each side needs to do before the end-of-year tours. 👉 Subscribe for weekly rugby chat with two of the game’s greats — insight, banter, and bold takes from both sides of the rivalry. #RugbyRivals #Springboks #AllBlacks #RugbyChampionship #VictorMatfield #JohnKirwan 📱 Follow Rugby Rivals: Instagram: @rugby.rivals TikTok: @rugbyrivalsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week’s Rugby Rivals, JK, Victor Matfield, and Ric Salizzo return with a hard-hitting unpack of the latest Rugby Championship drama. They cast a critical eye over South Africa’s masterclass against Argentina, and dissect how the All Blacks scraped through against a determined Wallabies side. 📱 Follow Rugby Rivals: Instagram: @rugby.rivals TikTok: @rugbyrivalsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The pressure is mounting on the All Blacks as they prepare for the Bledisloe Cup — with fans and critics questioning whether they can deliver when it matters most. At the same time, women’s rugby is set for a historic showdown with the Rugby World Cup Final promising to be one of the biggest spectacles the sport has ever seen. Sir John Kirwan and Victor Matfield bring their expert insights and hard-hitting opinions on: Why the Bledisloe clash is make-or-break for the ABs What Razor and the coaching staff need to get right The key storylines heading into the Women’s Rugby World Cup Final The impact these matches could have on the future of New Zealand rugby Don’t miss JK and Victor’s breakdown of one of the biggest rugby weekends of the year. 📱 Follow Rugby Rivals: Instagram: @rugby.rivals TikTok: @rugbyrivalsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Rugby Championship has been blown wide open after the Springboks stunned the All Blacks in dramatic fashion. On this week’s Rugby Rivals, Sir John Kirwan and Victor Matfield break down how South Africa’s victory has shifted the momentum - and whether it has derailed New Zealand’s hopes of taking control of the competition. We’ll unpack what Razor Robertson’s next move needs to be, how the All Blacks can respond, and why every team still has a shot at the title. With the table locked up and the stakes higher than ever, the road to Rugby Championship glory is anyone’s to win. 👉 Subscribe for weekly breakdowns and all the biggest stories in rugby. 📱 Follow Rugby Rivals: Instagram: @rugby.rivals TikTok: @rugbyrivalsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Rugby Championship is heating up, and who better to break it down than All Blacks legend Sir John Kirwan and Springbok great Victor Matfield? In this week’s episode of Rugby Rivals, JK and Victor dive into: The All Blacks’ gritty 24–17 win over South Africa at Eden Park Standout performances from Emoni Narawa, Will Jordan, and Quinn Tupaea Ardie Savea’s 100th Test milestone and game-saving turnover The Springboks’ fightback through Malcolm Marx and Cobus Reinach What this result means for the Rugby Championship table Can South Africa rally in next weekend’s rematch in Wellington? 👉 Subscribe for weekly breakdowns and all the biggest stories in rugby. 📱 Follow Rugby Rivals: Instagram: @rugby.rivals TikTok: @rugbyrivalsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The stage is set for one of the biggest rugby clashes since the World Cup Final, the All Blacks vs Springboks at Eden Park. In this week’s Rugby Rivals, JK and Victor break down the test preview, with the Boks chasing history and the All Blacks desperate to defend their fortress. Eden Park has been unbeaten for 50 games since 1994, but South Africa arrive on a four-match winning streak over New Zealand... Can they finally crack the code in Auckland? We also dive into all the action happening at the Women’s Rugby World Cup and answer questions directly from you, our viewers! 📱 Follow Rugby Rivals: Instagram: @rugby.rivals TikTok: @rugbyrivalsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Round 2 of The Rugby Championship 2025 delivered absolute drama. Argentina stunned the All Blacks 29–23 in Buenos Aires, claiming their first ever home win over New Zealand. Despite leading early, the All Blacks unraveled with three yellow cards and poor discipline — and the Pumas took full advantage to make history. Meanwhile, the Springboks survived a scare of their own against Australia, grinding out a narrow win to keep the title race wide open. After two rounds, every nation has one win each — setting up an unpredictable Championship. In this episode of Rivals, Victor Matfield and John Kirwan break down: What went wrong for the All Blacks in Argentina How the Pumas delivered on the biggest stage Why the Springboks still have questions to answer What these results mean for the rest of the tournament Looking ahead: the All Blacks return home to face the Springboks in back-to-back Tests at Eden Park, while Argentina travel to Australia for two tough clashes against the Wallabies. 📱 Follow Rugby Rivals: Instagram: @rugby.rivals TikTok: @rugbyrivals Facebook: Rugby Rivals See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Springboks are stunned by the Wallabies, the All Blacks rise to World #1, and the Rugby Championship is blown wide open. In Rivals Episode 13, Victor Matfield and Sir John Kirwan react to the Springboks’ shock loss to the Wallabies, the All Blacks’ big win over Argentina, and what it all means for the Bomb Squad, Rassie Erasmus, and Razor. From lineouts to maul tries, Fabian Holland’s potential, and if the Rugby Championship is really a two-horse race — Victor and JK break down every angle of the weekend’s action. 📱 Follow Rugby Rivals: Instagram: @rugby.rivals TikTok: @rugbyrivals Facebook: Rugby Rivals See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Rugby Championship is here, and opening weekend is shaping up to be HUGE. 🏉 In this episode of Rugby Rivals, JK & Victor break down: Rugby Championship Round 1 Preview South Africa vs Australia in Johannesburg... Can the Wallabies upset the defending champs? Argentina vs New Zealand in Córdoba... Are the All Blacks ready for a fast start away from home? The latest from the Women’s Rugby World Cup and who’s looking like the team to beat. What’s happening inside R360 and why it could shape the future of the game. The big questions around USA Rugby and their international ambitions. Let us know in the comments, who’s taking home The Rugby Championship this year? 📱 Follow Rugby Rivals: Instagram: @rugby.rivals TikTok: @rugbyrivals Facebook: Rugby Rivals See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Rugby Rivals, we break down the new-look All Blacks squad ahead of tjeor Rugby Championship campaign. Can this team topple the Springboks, outpace the often-underrated Pumas, and hold off a resurgent Australia? We also dissect the Lions' tour, and ask... were they overrated? And while the Wallabies might not be back yet, there's finally genuine hope for the future. Young talent, clearer systems, and belief - is Australian rugby turning the corner? Plenty to debate. Plenty to get excited about. 👇 Got thoughts? Let us know in the comments! 📱 Follow Rugby Rivals: Instagram: @rugby.rivals TikTok: @rugbyrivals Facebook: Rugby Rivals See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Rugby Rivals, JK and Victor Matfield break down why the real issues facing the Wallabies run deeper than refereeing decisions, and what needs to change ahead of the final Lions test. We also unpack the Springboks’ latest squad omissions, key selections, and what they signal for the Rugby Championship. Plus, concern is growing for the All Blacks, with a mounting injury list threatening their momentum. 👇 Got thoughts? Let us know in the comments! 📱 Follow Rugby Rivals: Instagram: @rugby.rivals TikTok: @rugbyrivals Facebook: Rugby Rivals See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

JK, Victor, and Andrew Trimble say the Wallabies have no chance against the Lions, and raise serious concerns about the future of union in Australia. We also ask the big question: is Finn Russell the best player in the world right now? Plus, we break down the growing resentment toward Ireland, and why all great teams eventually feel the heat the Irish are facing. Plenty of big calls, sharp analysis, and classic Rugby Rivals energy. 👇 Got thoughts? Let us know in the comments! 📱 Follow Rugby Rivals: Instagram: @rugby.rivals TikTok: @rugbyrivals Facebook: Rugby Rivals See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are the Springboks in winning form - or are they proving disappointing vs Italy? Will the All Blacks be able to maintain their form against sides like Ireland and South Africa? JK and Victor Matfield go head to head over the biggest stories in rugby, joined by former Irish international Andrew Trimble, to cover: The headbutt incident dividing fans Are the Lions set to dominate the Wallabies? The pre-game nerves they all faced in their playing careers JK asks if Northern Hemisphere rugby has overtaken the Southern Hemisphere And so much more! Watch or listen to Rugby Rivals wherever you get podcasts. Follow Rugby Rivals: Instagram: @rugby.rivals TikTok: @rugbyrivals Facebook: Rugby Rivals See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Debate: The TMO debacle has the rugby world fuming, and JK & Victor are leading the charge. We unpack all the action over the weekend - All Blacks vs. France, Springboks vs. Italy, Australia vs. Fiji and the Lions' showing against Australia's club teams. We also discuss why Codie Taylor is underrated, the rise of Japan's national team, and how Northern Hemisphere club rugby might be better preparing players for tests compared to Super Rugby. Tune in wherever you get podcasts! Follow Rugby Rivals: Instagram: @rugby.rivals TikTok: @rugbyrivals Facebook: Rugby Rivals See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We dive deep into the rise of 20-year-old flanker Henry Pollock, and ask is it fair to compare his skill-set to Ardie Savea? Jim gives his take on whether he’s ready for a starting position in the Lions jersey, while JK and Victor clash over whether hybrid players are ruining rugby. From bomb squad blow-ups to Finn Russell vs. Johnny Sexton, and whether there should be a 'Golden Point' rule in the Lions series - this episode is packed with strong opinions and passionate debates about the hottest topics in the rugby world. Note: Episode was recorded prior to the announcement of the All Blacks squad to take on France on Saturday 5th July. 🎧 Watch or listen to the new episode wherever you get podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Wallabies refusing to release their top players for the British & Irish Lions’ tour games against Super Rugby teams... smart long game or a mistake? This week on Rugby Rivals, Victor Matfield and Sir John Kirwan go head-to-head on:– Joe Schmidt and Wallabies’ strategy– Argentina's form vs. the Lions– Damian McKenzie’s form, still world class or slipping?– Razor’s All Blacks picks, and who missed out!– Rassie’s bold youth call for the Springboks New episodes weekly with top-tier rugby analysis from both sides of the globe. Hit subscribe for more, find the audio-only episodes on all podcast apps by searching for 'Rugby Rivals'!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sir John Kirwan has a radical idea to keep top talent like Richie Mo’unga in New Zealand... a tax scheme like the Irish! Victor Matfield isn’t convinced about the Springboks picking overseas players, we debate Dan Coles' yellow card drama, and a surprise bolter enters the All Blacks selection chat.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Rivals, Victor Matfield and Sir John Kirwan talk about the Bulls taking the win over the Sharks, JK gives his views on whether the Chiefs know how to get the job done at the back end of the season and JK and Victor debate whether France are ready to take the world cup out, or if they just don't want it. Irish legend Andrew Trimble joins us to talk about the Lions tour, and what Andy Farrell has planned for the Australians. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Rivals, Victor Matfield and Sir John Kirwan react to the viral penalty kick-off between the Sharks and Munster, Jaden Hendrikse's wink. Sean Fitzpatrick joins the show to debate what the difference is between gamesmanship and cheating, how players should interact with referees, why South Africa are winning what New Zealand needs to do - and so much more!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Instant replacement for Red Cards, fights over the bomb squad and love for the All Black Springbok rivalry. Plus Sir John Kirwan gets to meet NZ Rugby's greatest winger Portia WoodmanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.