The Ireland Rugby Social Podcast
Deep dives into rugby’s biggest moments, legends and rivalries - straight from the scrum half’s seat. Honest chat, expert insight and untold stories.
Episodes
All Blacks Too Strong at Eden Park | Reaction with Gavin, Conor and Richie Murphy
Ulster Head Coach Richie Murphy joins the show this week to break down Ireland's defeat to New Zealand at Eden Park, as Andy Farrell's side fell short in the final game of this summer's Nations Championship.The team analyse where the game was won and lost, discussing Ireland's set-piece struggles, the physical battle, and the key moments that swung the contest in the All Blacks' favour. Richie als
Ireland Get the Job Done... Just! Reaction with Gavin, Conor and Former International Paul Marshall
Ireland made it two wins from two, but it was far from a perfect afternoon as Andy Farrell's side were pushed all the way by a determined Japan.Gavin and Conor are joined by former Ireland and Ulster scrum-half Paul Marshall to dissect the match, looking at Ireland's struggles at the set-piece, the impact of the new caps, and the players continuing to stake their claim in a competitive squad. Paul
Ireland survive Wallabies scare! Reaction with Gavin, Conor and Ulster Centre James Hume
They’re back!Gavin Andrews and Conor Murray are joined by Ulster and Ireland centre James Hume to break down Ireland's dramatic 33-31 victory over Australia in the opening match of the Nations Championship.The panel analyse the key moments that turned the game in Ireland's favour, from Hugo Keenan's outstanding return to Andy Farrell's half-time intervention and the composure shown in the closing
Ireland Rugby Social Post match in Bilbao
Gavin Andrews, Ian Humphreys & Tony McWhirter chat post match in Bilbao after both Ulster and Leinster lost their European Finals
Six Nations Review with Sam Monaghan
Sam Monaghan joins Gavin Andrews and Lindsay Peat to look back on Ireland’s Six Nations Championship campaign. Sam gives insight into Ireland’s performance, key moments, and how the team developed throughout the tournament. She also talks us through her guilty pleasures, getting her cap number and the historic match at the Aviva.
Cliodhna Moloney-MacDonald: The Chief Hooker
Gavin and Lindsay are joined by Ireland international, Exeter Chiefs and Lindsay’s best friend Cliodhna Moloney‑MacDonald.
It’s a powerful and honest conversation about life in elite rugby and beyond. Cliodhna opens up on the realities of being a top-level athlete, the Six Nations campaign to date and her Ireland journey. She shares personal stories from her career, playing against her wife, En
Ireland 33 Wales 12: Reaction Pod with Edel McMahon
Gavin and Lindsay are joined by special guest Edel McMahon as they delve into a ruthless Irish performance in Belfast. They discuss the players performances, 'Irish Touch' and looking forward to the final game, against Scotland, in the Aviva Stadium.
Brittany Hogan: Weddings, Rugby and a fresh start with Sale
Ireland Rugby Social is back with another great conversation from the heart of the game. This week, Gavin and Lindsay are joined by Ulster and Ireland international Brittany Hogan for an honest and engaging look at life in elite rugby. Brittany shares her journey from Ballynahinch to Dubai and being star struck in her first scrum against the Black Ferns and much more.
Lynne Cantwell: Visibility, Legacy and Changing Irish Rugby
Gavin and Lindsay are joined by Lynne Cantwell - Ireland's most capped women's international, Grand Slam winner and a voice for progress both on and off the pitch.
From leading Ireland through some of their biggest international moments to helping shape the future of the game beyond her playing career, Lynne brings honesty, insight, and perspective you don’t often get to hear. We’ll talk leaders
France 26 Ireland 7: Frustration in Clermont
Gavin and Lindsay are joined by Edel McMahon to reflect on how that contest unfolded, where the game was won and lost. We’ll hear reaction, break down the key performances, and ask what lessons Ireland can take from facing one of the tournament’s toughest opponents as we dive into France v Ireland here on the Ireland Rugby Social.
Erin King: Leading from the front
Gavin and Lindsay are joined this week by one of the leading voices in Irish rugby - Ireland captain Erin King. From the demands of international rugby to the realities of leadership at the highest level, Erin has been at the heart of Ireland’s journey, on and off the pitch. In this episode, she opens up about the responsibility of being captain at a young age, the culture within the squad, and wh
Ireland smash Italy: Reaction from Galway
Gavin and Lindsay are pitch side after the final whistle in Galway as they chat through Ireland's brilliant win over Italy in Galway. Nine tries and a bonus point victory, they look at what went so well for the team in green, discuss how important the massive crowd was in the Dexcom Stadium and look ahead to a huge clash with France.There’s an impromptu post-match celebration with the team and rea
Ireland v Italy: The big preview with Anna McGann and Eve Higgins
Gavin Andrews and co-host Lindsay Peat join Anna McGann and Eve Higgins in Ireland camp to reflect on their performance against England and looking ahead to playing Italy in Galway as their continue their Six Nations campaign.
Expect honesty, laughs, and a few insights you won’t hear on the pitch — as we go inside the minds of two of Ireland’s most exciting backs.
England beat Ireland: Post match reaction after Six Nations opener
Gavin and Lindsay breakdown England’s 34th consecutive win as they chase an eighth straight Six Nations title and fifth consecutive Grand Slam. They discuss Erin King Ireland’s new captain, the set piece and so much more.
Gareth Steenson: The Chief now coaching the Ireland Women's Team
Gareth Steenson and co-host for the women's six nations, Lindsay Peat, join Gavin Andrews to look back on Gareth’s career from missing out on Ulster due to a certain Mr David Humphreys, to his successful career in England with Exeter Chiefs and his move back home. Gareth discusses his role within Ireland Women’s camp and their preparations for the upcoming Six Nations campaign.
Concussion Special: Does the game need to change?
Rugby is built on huge hits and powerful collisions — but at what cost? In this special episode, we dive into the toll of head injuries, the latest science behind concussions, and the innovations reshaping player safety. From tackle height to culture‑changing protocols, Gavin sits down with David Irwin, Luke Marshall and Kenny Hooks to discuss how the sport is fighting to protect its players and s
Stuart McCloskey: Centre of Attention
Stuart McCloskey 'Le Frigo Irlandais' joins Conor and Gav to look back on Ireland’s Six Nations Championship campaign from the player's perspective. One of Ireland’s standout performers of the tournament, Stuart talks us through the championship game by game — from the reaction inside camp after big results to some of his best moments in green. He also discusses the atmosphere within the squad, th
Ireland win the Triple Crown: Reaction and analysis from Dublin
Intent was the buzz word as former Ireland internationals Conor Murray and Mike McCarthy break down Ireland’s Triple Crown sealing win over Scotland.
Mike shows off all this stats from the game as Conor highlights his key performers in green.
Gavin also grabs a word with Ulster’s Tom O’Toole.
Andrew Trimble: Ireland v Scotland, Selection Calls and the Title Race
Andrew Trimble joins Conor and Gavin to look ahead to Ireland’s final Six Nations clash with Scotland and reflect on a dramatic championship. The trio discuss whether Ireland are really there for the taking, Scotland’s threat heading to Dublin, and how momentum across the tournament has shifted perceptions on teams. They also review Ireland’s win over Wales, debate key selection calls, discuss Ire
Ireland edge Wales: Post-match reaction at The Aviva
Conor, Gavin and Mike breakdown a vital Irish win at the Aviva, discussing an impressive Wales performance, Ireland's tactics and who makes the cut for a huge Triple Crown decider next week against Scotland. We also hear from Head Coach Andy Farrell on Ulster scrum half Nathan Doak's first cap, and from Jamison Gibson Park on his 50th cap, and what they learnt from the win.
Jamie Roberts: Ireland v Wales, Key Battles and Belief
Former Wales and British & Irish Lions centre Jamie Roberts joins the podcast to share his thoughts ahead of Ireland’s clash with Wales. Drawing on his experience at the very highest level, he weighs in on Wales’ current transition, the challenge of maintaining standards during difficult periods, and why Ireland’s consistency has made them one of the most formidable sides in world rugby. He al
Zac and Bryn Ward: Chasing the Ireland Dream Together
Ulster duo Zac and Bryn Ward join this week’s episode to reflect on their very different paths into professional rugby. Former 7s star Zac shares lessons from the Olympics, handling pressure, expectation, and social media criticism. Bryn opens up on his rapid rise this season and what it’s like being part of an Ireland camp. The brothers discuss Ulster’s ambitions, competition for places, and the
Ireland smash England: Post-match reaction from Twickenham
Conor, Gavin and Mike dissect a standout Irish performance, discussing the big moments and key players that guided Ireland to a record win at the home of English rugby. We also catch up with Stuart McCloskey and Tommy O'Brien who give their thoughts on a performance that's thrown the Six Nations wide open.
How Ireland can beat England
Jack Crowley gets his chance at 10 as Andy Farrell makes big calls for Ireland’s huge trip to Twickenham Stadium. Conor and Gavin break down the selection, explain why criticism could fuel Ireland’s response, highlight the key battles up front and predict a defining, emotional showdown with England.
Ireland bounce back: Post-match reaction from players and pundits
This week on The Ireland Rugby Social, former Ireland international Mike McCarthy gives his take on a nail-biting 20-13 win over Italy in Dublin. We also catch up with Cormac Izuchukwu, who reflects on his Six Nations debut, and Stuart McCloskey following a standout performance. To wrap up, Conor Murray joins us to look at England's shock defeat to Scotland and discuss what it means for selection
Seán O’Brien: Ireland v Italy, Selection calls and Coaching life
Former Ireland, Leinster and Lions back row Seán O’Brien joins The Ireland Rugby Social to share his thoughts on Ireland’s selection ahead of the Six Nations clash with Italy.
Seán weighs in on back-row balance, what coaches really look for at Test level, and why some players thrive in games while others struggle to translate training form. Drawing on his experience as both an elite international
France thrash Ireland: Reaction with Conor and Rob Kearney
What went wrong for Ireland in Paris? Conor and Gavin are joined by Rob Kearney to review Ireland’s bruising 36-14 defeat to France. The panel look at where the game was won and lost, try and explain why Ireland have fallen off, and suggest what needs to happen ahead of Italy next week.
Six Nations: Can this Ireland team beat France?
Andy Farrell names his starting XV for the blockbuster opener in Paris against France - so many big calls - Prendergast x2, Stockdale over Lowe, Loughman at loose-head and Jamie Osborne at fullback. Conor and Gavin review the Ireland team, look at where the game will be won and lost and make a bold prediction for Thursday night.
The Six Nations preview podcast live from City of Armagh RFC
Recorded in front of a full house at City of Armagh RFC, this special episode features Andrew Trimble and Rory Best alongside Conor and Gavin as they look ahead to the Six Nations. The panel explore what sets the Championship apart, the pride of winning it, Ireland’s key selection decisions, and the teams to watch. Expect sharp insight, strong opinions, and no shortage of great anecdotes from the
The Six Nations Launch: Caelan Doris and Andy Farrell
With Conor on a beach getting some winter sun, Gavin travels solo to Edinburgh for the 2026 Six Nations launch. At a noisy press launch, he gets a word with Ireland captain Caelan Doris and speaks with Andy Farrell about being back coaching in green after his successful year away leading the Lions. Gavin also chats with the Daily Telegraph's Chief Rugby Correspondent, Gavin Mairs and gets his thou
Jacob Stockdale: Tries and Lowes
On this week’s episode, Conor and Gavin sit down with Ireland and Ulster star Jacob Stockdale to unpack the highs, lows, and hard lessons of life at the top of rugby. From breaking through with Ireland and the magic of 2018 to injuries, online abuse, and rebuilding confidence, Jacob speaks honestly about pressure, fame, family, and finding perspective. He also brings the lighter side — including a
Bundee Aki: Centre Stage
This week, Conor and Gavin sit down with current Ireland international Bundee Aki to trace a remarkable journey from New Zealand to the centre of Irish rugby. From lifting silverware with Connacht to earning the green jersey, Bundee reflects on the moments that shaped his career and his identity as a player. He opens up on the pressure, pride, and scrutiny that comes with representing Ireland, the
Ian McKinley: From accident to the Azzurri
What does it take to come back from the impossible? Ian McKinley was a rising rugby star whose career was shattered by a freak accident that left him blind in one eye. Most would have walked away—but Ian didn’t. In this episode, we explore his extraordinary journey from despair to determination, reinventing himself as a professional player with protective goggles and becoming a symbol of resilienc
Lindsay Peat: Late beginnings, fierce competitiveness, and breaking boundaries
This week, Conor and Gavin sit down with Ireland international Lindsay Peat to chart an extraordinary sporting journey defined by late beginnings, fierce competitiveness, and breaking boundaries. From discovering elite sport later than most to excelling across multiple codes, Lindsay opens up about the moments, mindsets, and mentors that shaped her path—on the rugby pitch and far beyond it. Honest
Conor Murray: Shirts That Shaped Me
In this Christmas special, Conor revisits the defining moments of his career—one jersey at a time. This episode uses a shirt from Murray’s storied journey as a storytelling spark, opening the door to untold stories, pivotal matches, proud highs, painful lows, and the personalities who shaped his path.
Willie John McBride: The ultimate Lion
In this episode, Conor and Gavin sit down with Willie John McBride to hear about his remarkable life and legacy. The towering Ulsterman, came to define the very spirit of the British & Irish Lions. From a late introduction to the sport, to becoming one of rugby’s most revered figures, McBride’s story is one of resilience, leadership, and unshakeable team spirit.
Devin Toner: Winning Big
What’s it like to spend over a decade at the heart of Leinster and Ireland rugby? This week, Devin Toner joins Conor and Gavin to share the inside story of his extraordinary career. From towering over classmates to lifting European trophies, unforgettable tour tales, and the heartbreak of missing the 2019 World Cup. This is a conversation full of insight, honesty, and great stories you won’t forg
Rob Kearney: Grand Slams, Jet Skis and how to fix the game
One of Irish Rugby's most decorated players, Rob Kearney, joins Conor and Gavin to discuss some of his favourite memories on and off the pitch. A sporting career that started on the Gaelic football pitches of Louth, and ended on the Western Coast of Australia, Kearney recalls all the craic along the way, and shares his views on how to fix the game.
Conor Murray’s Ultimate XV
Conor reveals his Ultimate XV — the dream team of players he’s shared the pitch with for Munster, Ireland, or the British & Irish Lions. From rugby legends to all-time heroes, who makes the cut?
Beaten by the Boks: Cards and Chaos
Conor and Gavin review Ireland's defeat to the Springboks, ask did the ref get the five card calls right, why this South Africa side might be the best team ever and why there might be Six Nations hope for Ireland with the character they showed in the chaos.
Rob Herring: Patience, Pride and that Grand-Slam Try
Rob Herring on making the move to Ireland, having to wait for his chance, his greatest moments in green, facing South Africa and his love of snacks.
A record win over Australia: What sets Hansen apart, and why the Springboks game is massive for Ireland's future.
Former Ireland scrum-half Conor Murray and Gavin Andrews discuss Ireland's win over Australia. Why Mack Hansen is so good, how Paul O'Connell got the line-out back firing, concerns over maul defence and why next week's match against the Springboks is massive for Ireland's future.
Peter O'Mahony - Stories from the Shed
A Captain for every team he’s played for, Peter O’Mahony joins Conor Murray and Gavin Andrews, speaking about breaking through at Munster, what it takes to be a leader in the dressing room, and all the craic and characters along the way
A win over Japan - who gets the 10 jersey next week? - & the influence of Paul O'Connell
Conor Murray and Gavin Andrews review Ireland's win over Japan, discuss the massive influence of Paul O'Connell and outline the big calls to come ahead of the Tests against the Wallabies and the Springboks.
Eddie Jones – Farrell, Ireland in transition & the state of the game
Bonus Pod - Japan Head Coach, Eddie Jones, chats to Gavin about his admiration for Andy Farrell, his views on Ireland’s current ‘sticky period’, and the recently retired Munster player who he thinks is irreplaceable (and spoiler.. it’s not Conor..)
Andrew Conway - the Dub who became a Munster Legend
Former Ireland winger, Andrew Conway, on having to tell Joe Schmidt he was moving from Leinster to Munster, resilience, his debut for his country, his favourite game in green, and the top players he faced in his rugby career.
Beaten by the All Blacks - The Red Card, Big Performances & What’s Next for Ireland
Conor and Gavin reflect on Ireland’s defeat to New Zealand. Murray breaks down the key moments from the match, including the controversial red card shown to Tadhg Beirne and its impact on the game. He highlights the players who stepped up and assesses how Ireland responded to the challenge posed by the All Blacks. With the Autumn Series still unfolding, Murray explores what this loss means for Ire
Rory Best - How Ireland beat the All Blacks
In this episode, Conor Murray and Gavin Andrews sit down with former Ireland captain Rory Best for a powerful and insightful conversation. They revisit that unforgettable day in Chicago when Ireland toppled the All Blacks for the first time in history, and explore the tactical genius of Joe Schmidt and the evolving leadership of Andy Farrell. Rory shares his thoughts on what makes a great coach, h
Welcome To The Ireland Rugby Social
Starting on October 28th. Step into the world of elite rugby with The Ireland Rugby Social, a compelling new podcast hosted by former Ireland and British & Irish Lions scrum half, Conor Murray and BBC Sport NI’s Gavin Andrews. With 125 caps for Ireland, Murray brings unmatched experience, insight, and authenticity to every episode—offering fans a rare glimpse into the mindset of a professional
