Rucks, Mauls & Oval Balls

By: Rucks Mauls & Oval Balls
  • Summary

  • Welcome to Rucks Mauls & Oval Balls, the ultimate podcast for all things English rugby! Hosted by two former university teammates who shared the pitch and forged a lasting bond, this show takes you behind the scenes of the rugby world, blending insightful analysis with a shared passion for the sport. Each episode dives deep into the game, with a special focus on statistics, player performance, team dynamics, and match breakdowns. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the game, Rucks, Mauls & Oval Balls offers expert commentary, fun debates, and insider knowledge that you won’t find anywhere else. Tune in for the perfect mix of rugby banter, in-depth analysis, and a true love for the game!

    © 2025 Rucks, Mauls & Oval Balls
    Show more Show less
Episodes
  • Ep. 17 - BONUS EPISODE - Question & Answers Special
    Apr 25 2025

    Rugby fans have been clamoring for more deep dives into the sport's burning questions, and we've delivered with our very first bonus Q&A special. For a full hour, we tackle the questions you've submitted across social platforms, offering thoughtful analysis and occasionally heated opinions on rugby's most debated topics.

    We kick things off discussing whether rugby union should adopt the captain's challenge system from rugby league. While it works well in league, we explore why the current TMO-heavy union setup makes this problematic—potentially leading to even more game delays. Could it work with significant TMO reforms? Perhaps, but the current environment doesn't seem right.

    The conversation shifts to London Irish's future following Eddie Jordan's passing. We analyze whether the Eddie Jordan Group represents legitimate investment and what it means for the club's revival. Their commitment to rebuilding the academy and establishing a women's team sounds promising, but we discuss the realities of rugby's challenging financial landscape and what it takes for investors to succeed in this space.

    One of our most passionate segments explores solutions for Pacific Island rugby, particularly Samoa and Tonga. These rugby-rich nations face enormous challenges from population size to financial limitations. We propose practical solutions including mandated test matches against tier one nations with split gate receipts and expanded 'A' team fixtures to provide both exposure and financial support.

    The episode takes a lighter turn when we construct our dream XV made entirely of rugby-playing brothers. From the Jones twins in the front row to the explosive Tuilagi trio and the skilled Barrett brothers, this hypothetical team would certainly be a force to be reckoned with on the pitch!

    Have questions you'd like us to tackle in future episodes? Send them our way via email at ruxmallsovalballs@outlook.com or through our social media channels. The more questions we receive, the more specials we'll produce!

    Show more Show less
    59 mins
  • Ep. 16 - Have the Lunatics Been Reigned In?
    Apr 23 2025

    The battle lines have been drawn in Round 14 of the Premiership, with a fascinating shift in momentum as the season enters its crucial final stages. The physically dominant, confrontational teams are surging while the free-flowing entertainers struggle under pressure.

    Sale Sharks delivered perhaps the most impressive performance of the weekend, their pack ruthlessly dismantling Harlequins at The Stoop. With George Ford orchestrating proceedings like a maestro, Sale have transformed into genuine title contenders. Their pack, built on what we describe as "the Al Sanderson South African influence of not giving an inch physically," gives them a formidable platform few teams can match.

    Meanwhile, Leicester Tigers continued their pragmatic approach against Bristol Bears, capitalizing on errors and overplaying to secure a crucial away victory. The Tigers barely had possession but scored 36 points through disciplined defense and clinical finishing. Bristol's crisis of identity raises serious questions about their top-four credentials as their early season swagger disappears at precisely the wrong time.

    The weekend also witnessed a resurrection of front row flair, with Newcastle's McCallum and Sale's Opoku-Fordjour scoring magnificent tries and showcasing handling skills that put backs to shame. These "Easter miracles" had us celebrating in our Democratic People's Republic of Front Row segment – a joyous tribute to the unsung heroes of the game.

    In the Women's Six Nations, England continue their march toward what appears an inevitable World Cup triumph later this year. Their lethal back three of Kildunne, Dow and MacDonald looks unstoppable, with the team averaging over 50 points per game. France await in what should be a Grand Slam decider, though we're expecting England to win comfortably by 20-30 points.

    Subscribe for our complete breakdown of all the Premiership action, playoff predictions, and front row appreciation as we head toward the business end of an enthralling season.

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 20 mins
  • Ep. 15 - Champions Cup, Leinster's Toulouse?
    Apr 16 2025

    The European Champions Cup quarter-finals have delivered a stark verdict on the current balance of power in northern hemisphere rugby. Leinster continue their relentless march through the tournament, securing their second consecutive knockout match without conceding a single point. Their systematic dismantling of Glasgow Warriors demonstrated why they remain overwhelming favorites, combining Jacques Nienaber's defensive masterclass with explosive attacking talent.

    Young Henry Pollock stole the spotlight in Northampton's impressive victory over Castres – not just with his performance, but with a showboating try celebration that sparked debate across rugby circles. His emergence symbolizes a new generation bringing much-needed personality to the sport, with Northampton now facing the daunting task of a semi-final against Leinster.

    The all-French quarter-final between Toulouse and Toulon provided the weekend's only genuinely close contest, while Bordeaux's explosive backline proved too much for a battling Munster. The semi-final matchups now present intriguing tactical battles – can Northampton's free-flowing style upset Leinster's machine-like efficiency? Will Bordeaux's inconsistency cost them against the European pedigree of Toulouse?

    Meanwhile, the Women's Six Nations reveals encouraging signs as Ireland, Wales, Italy and Scotland close the gap with England and France in terms of first-team quality, though bench strength remains the defining difference. Italy's surprise victory over Scotland creates an unexpected battle to avoid the wooden spoon.

    Join us as we dissect these fascinating contests, debate selection dilemmas, and explore what makes Ben Tamifuna the perfect pantomime villain that rugby needs. Whether you're following club or international rugby, this episode captures the current pulse of the northern hemisphere game.

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 11 mins
adbl_web_global_use_to_activate_webcro768_stickypopup

What listeners say about Rucks, Mauls & Oval Balls

Average customer ratings

Reviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.