It was a crazy weekend of international rugby! 🏉In this episode of Bench Opinions, we break down every major clash from November 1st — starting with the massive Ireland v New Zealand showdown in Chicago, where Tadhg Beirne’s red card sparked chaos and controversy. Did he deserve to see red? 🤔We dive into the incident, how it changed the game, and what it means for Ireland heading into the rest of the November Tests. But that’s not all — there were huge statements across the board: England v Australia – England extend their unbeaten run and thump the Wallabies. Are Borthwick’s men officially back, or did Australia’s injury list make it too easy? South Africa v Japan – The Springboks dominate again, and Sascha Feinberg-Mngomezulu continues to impress. Is this the start of a new era for the Boks’ backline? Scotland v USA – A statement victory for Scotland and a big reality check for USA Rugby ahead of their 2031 home World Cup. Can they close the gap in time?

It’s been a chaotic week in rugby — both on and off the pitch. We dive into Jan Hendrik Wessels’ ban and what it means for the Bulls and the URC, before turning our attention to Ireland’s looming showdown with New Zealand. With Leinster’s URC struggles raising questions and the All Blacks on the horizon, could Irish rugby be heading for a mini-crisis? Or is this just a bump before the big stage? We also review URC Round 5 results, predict the Top 8 and eventual winner, and look ahead to the autumn internationals, including key fixtures and Springbok squad depth — who steps in at fullback if Willemse is sidelined?

 Irish rugby is heating up! In this week’s episode, we dive deep into the Leinster vs Munster clash, where Munster continue their rise and Leinster show real signs of struggle. Are we seeing a power shift in Irish rugby? We also break down Ulster’s impressive win over the Sharks, Connacht’s close call against the Bulls, and all the other Round 4 URC results. We take a look at the updated league standings and preview what to expect in Round 5. Finally, we turn our attention to the Springbok squad announcement for the autumn internationals — including one exciting debut and some big-name recalls. It’s a packed episode full of URC insights, South African rugby news, and international storylines you don’t want to miss!

In this week’s episode, we break down all the URC action — the Stormers are flying, Ulster look like a genuine threat, and the Italian clubs continue to impress. But there are worrying signs for the Sharks, Bulls, and Lions. Then we deep dive into the biggest talking point in world rugby right now — the R360 breakaway league. Is it a net positive for the sport? How will private equity reshape the future of rugby, and can it force the traditional powers to adapt or risk being left behind? We wrap up by reacting to Jack Dempsey’s claim that it’s harder to win the Six Nations than the Rugby World Cup — is he onto something, or is that madness?

The Springboks go back-to-back and claim another Rugby Championship title — but how did everyone else fare?In this week’s episode, we grade every team’s season, breaking down who passed with flying colours and who needs some serious extra time on the training field. We also look at the latest URC results, standout players, and what the early form tells us about the season ahead.

The Springboks delivered a resounding win over Argentina in Durban, led by a record-breaking performance from Sasha Feinberg-Mngomezulu. We break down how South Africa dominated, what it means for the Rugby Championship, and which players are making the biggest impact. Elsewhere, the All Blacks narrowly edged Australia to keep their unbeaten Eden Park streak alive. We look ahead to the next round of fixtures — Springboks vs Argentina and All Blacks vs Wallabies — before diving into Week One of the URC and which teams are already making a statement.

We break down the Springboks’ starting 15 to face Argentina in the Rugby Championship — who to watch, key battles, and what a win could mean for South Africa’s development. We also look at the stakes in the New Zealand vs Australia clash and what those results could mean for both nations.   Later, we dive deep into the upcoming URC season, picking out the favourites, contenders, and dark horses, before wrapping up with a look at the Currie Cup final, the Griquas’ role, and the future of South Africa’s oldest competition.   Rugby fans — this one’s packed with everything you need ahead of a massive weekend of action!

60 characters so it displays fully. 📝 Episode Description The Springboks produced a record-breaking performance to demolish the All Blacks and blow the Rugby Championship wide open. We analyse how South Africa dominated, where New Zealand were exposed, and what this means for the title race. We also look at Argentina’s win over Australia, preview the Women’s Rugby World Cup semi-finals, and touch on the start of the English Premiership season. All the biggest rugby talking points in one episode!

The All Blacks extended their unbeaten run at Eden Park with a hard-fought win over the Springboks — and no, this time we probably can’t blame the referee.... Or can we? We break down exactly where the game was won and lost, the key moments that swung the result, and what the Springboks need to change before the rematch in Wellington. We also revisit the thrilling classic between Australia and Argentina, plus take a closer look at the Springboks’ lineup for the next showdown with New Zealand.

The Springboks face the All Blacks at Eden Park — and we debate exactly who Rassie Erasmus should pick for one of rugby’s biggest tests. We break down the key Springbok selection battles, what South Africa needs to do to win in New Zealand, and how this game could shape the Rugby Championship. We also review the Women’s Springboks’ results at the Rugby World Cup, discuss Nthlabakanya’s looming drug ban, and react to Nigel Owens’ controversial video calling out the refereeing in South Africa’s clash with Australia. 👉 Can the Springboks make history at Eden Park? Tune in for our full preview and rugby insights.

The Springboks are back on track after beating the Wallabies in Cape Town — but is this the sign that Australia are finally a good team again? We break down the key moments, standout performances, and what it means for South Africa’s Rugby Championship hopes. Elsewhere, Argentina shocked New Zealand to blow the tournament wide open, while we also dive into Nthlabakanya’s doping issues and the kickoff of the Women’s Rugby World Cup. All the biggest rugby stories in one place!

The Rugby Championship is heating up! We break down South Africa’s shock home defeat to Australia — what went wrong for the Springboks, and can they bounce back next week in Cape Town? We also look at New Zealand’s dominant win over Argentina in Buenos Aires and preview the second clash between the two sides. Plus, we dive into the growing controversy around ticket pricing in South Africa. All the big talking points, bold predictions, and rugby banter you need this week.

This week’s What a Week brings you a sun-soaked mix of awkwardness, laughs, and questionable choices. We kick things off with the most sensual sunscreen application ever witnessed on a public beach (yes, it’s as uncomfortable as it sounds), dive into the world of supermarket products with names that should’ve been focus-tested, and wrap up with the bittersweet reality of winning second place in amateur golf. Equal parts hilarious and cringe-worthy — it’s a week you don’t want to miss.

We break down the Springboks squad to take on Australia in the opening test of the Rugby Championship. From debutants to experienced campaigners, we analyse the selections and what they mean for the Wallabies clash. We also assess Australia’s chances against both South Africa and New Zealand, question where the All Blacks are in their development cycle, and ask if Argentina are hitting a slump at the worst possible time.

Dom and Claus hold down the fort to unpack the final test match from a fantastic British & Irish Lions Tour to Australia. Tune in to hear what the boys think about both teams, they give marks to the Lions and the Wallabies and also pick their players of the tour. What does this mean for Australia moving forward and should the Lions be happy with the 2-1 result? You know what to do. Click play... 

This week’s What A Week takes a sharp left turn — from DJs with no rhythm, to scooter rides that should come with a waiver, and a very questionable crowd-navigation strategy involving a disabled person. We unpack the chaos so you don’t have to. Tap in for stories you won’t believe and judgments you probably shouldn’t repeat.

The British & Irish Lions have sealed the series win over Australia — but not without controversy. In this episode, we dive deep into the decisive third Test, breaking down the key moments and the refereeing decisions that have fans and pundits talking. We talk about Itoje's questionable actions as captain, whether the TMO did his job, discuss what this result means for both sides going forward, and ask the big question: did the Wallabies really put up enough of a fight? 

This week’s What a Week dives into the fine art of keeping secrets, dodging clingy acquaintances, and parents surviving kids’ events. Chaos, laughs, and unsolicited sideline coaching guaranteed.

The British & Irish Lions are off to a flying start after comfortably dispatching the Wallabies in their opening test in Australia. We break down the standout performances, key tactical wins, and what this result means for the rest of the tour. We also celebrate the Junior Springboks' triumph at the U20 Championship and take a quick look ahead to the Springboks’ July test run. Whether you're a die-hard rugby fan or just tuning in, this episode has everything you need to stay in the loop.

This week, we tackle the business side of the game — who should own rugby clubs? We debate whether the French model of private ownership is the blueprint for future success and ask if rugby is ready for big brand investments like the rumored Red Bull takeover of Newcastle Falcons. Is private equity the saviour or the slippery slope for club rugby? And what does this mean for competitiveness, tradition, and the global game?