Rugby Rivals - Sir John Kirwan & Victor Matfield

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.