Boks Unpacked x The Verdict

The Greatest Rivalry is here, and on this episode of Boks Unpacked, the panel welcomes former All Blacks legend Andrew Mehrtens to discuss one of rugby’s biggest battles — the Springboks vs All Blacks at Ellis Park. Mehrtens shares his experiences of facing South Africa, the intensity of the rivalry, and what makes playing the Springboks such a unique challenge.The team also looks back at iconic moments from the rivalry, including the 1995 Rugby World Cup Final, Ellis Park memories, the famous Paris panel debate, and how both nations continue to shape the history of world rugby. With the first Test approaching, the panel breaks down what fans can expect when these two rugby giants collide once again.Proudly brought to you by:‪ ‪‪‪@WeBuyCars‬ - ‪@BetwaySouthAfrica‬ - ‪@officialcastlelager‬ - ‪@coca-colasouthafrica‬ - ‪@supersport‬

Duane Vermeulen joins the Fan Van for a brilliant look back at a career that delivered some of the defining moments in Springbok history. From the extraordinary turnaround under Rassie Erasmus and why winning the 2019 Rugby World Cup was never actually part of the original plan, to thinking his Bok career was finished before being called back for one final shot at glory in 2023, Duane lifts the lid on what made that generation so special. He also reveals how Rassie first discovered him, the evolution of his coaching over nearly 20 years and why the Springboks’ success ultimately comes down to getting the right people pulling towards one goal. There are plenty of stories from one of the toughest No.8s to ever play the game too: returning from neck fusion to face Samoa at the 2015 World Cup, picking out defenders as his “customers”, naming Richie McCaw as the toughest opponent he ever faced and recalling some unforgettable battles with the All Blacks. Plus, Duane tells the story of refusing Robbie Fleck’s request to repeat himself in English, accidentally drinking his coach’s entire bottle of brandy and the moment Os du Randt was mistaken for his dad. A proper Fan Van episode with one of South African rugby’s modern greats.

The Greatest Rivalry is here, and on this episode of Boks Unpacked, the panel welcomes All Blacks legend Justin Marshall to discuss one of rugby’s greatest rivalries: South Africa versus New Zealand. Justin reflects on unforgettable Rugby World Cup memories, the 2023 Rugby World Cup Final, and what makes the Springboks vs All Blacks rivalry unlike anything else in world rugby.The panel also breaks down the upcoming Greatest Rivalry Tour, including the challenges facing both teams, All Blacks squad selections, Richie Mo’unga’s omission, South Africa’s depth, and how the move away from Super Rugby has changed the development of players on both sides. From classic battles against legends like Joost van der Westhuizen and Ma’a Nonu to the physicality, history, and passion that define this rivalry, this episode dives deep into the stories shaping the biggest contests in rugby.

Springbok legend Percy Montgomery joins the Fan Van to revisit an extraordinary career that made him one of South African rugby’s most recognisable figures. From the long blond hair and white boots to becoming the first Springbok to reach 100 Test caps, Percy reveals the work, pressure and personality behind the image.He tells the truth behind the controversial incident that led to his six-month playing ban, recalls the terrifying reality of trying to stop Jonah Lomu and explains how his time in Wales transformed both his kicking and his career. Percy also shares the story of Jake White bringing him back into the Springbok setup after he had missed the 2003 World Cup.That comeback would end with Percy playing a decisive role in South Africa’s triumphant 2007 World Cup campaign. He reflects on the final against England, the discipline that made him one of rugby’s greatest goal-kickers and the journey from being written off to becoming a world champion.

We’re hitting the road with our mobile studio to sit down with Fourie du Preez, diving into his incredible rugby journey — from his early days to becoming one of the greatest Springbok scrum-halves.This episode captures exclusive conversations with Fourie, exploring his career highlights, behind-the-scenes stories, and unforgettable moments that defined his legacy in South African rugby. Fans will get a rare look at his reflections, personal anecdotes, and the human side of life in the jersey.Our mobile studio brings Fourie’s story directly to you, preserving his legacy and offering unique insights into his career and impact on the game.Subscribe for weekly updates on our Fan Van journey, and tell us in the comments which Fourie du Preez memory you love the most.Watch more Boks Unpacked Episodes:    • Boks Unpacked   Watch more The Verdict Episodes:    • The Verdict   Never miss a new episode - subscribe here:    / @the-verdict-channel