In Episode 3 of A Rassie+ Special: The Shape of the Game, Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus and his coaching team focus on one of rugby union’s most unique and misunderstood contests: the maul.They unpack why rugby shouldn’t “fix” the game by changing its fundamentals — and why scrums and mauls must remain protected contests, not replaced by shortcuts like free kicks.A major focus of this episode is the growing grey area around maul defence — particularly the difference between pushing, pulling, and dragging, and how unclear interpretation creates confusion for:• referees trying to make decisions in real time• fans trying to understand what’s legal• coaches trying to build a fair contestThe episode also explores referee pressure, the role of the TMO, and why rugby must prioritise accuracy, fairness and safety before spectacle.

In Episode 2 of A Rassie+ Special on the Shape of the Game, Rassie Erasmus and his coaching staff discuss the power of choice in rugby — and why managing the contest is at the heart of the sport.From scrums, mauls and breakdowns to kicking battles and selection strategy, this episode explores how rugby stays rugby when teams are free to play different styles — while still being governed by fairness, safety and contest.

In Episode 1 of A Rassie+ Special: The Shape of the Game, Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus sits down with his coaching team to unpack one of the most important — and misunderstood — documents in rugby: the World Rugby Charter.

As proposed law changes spark global debate, this episode explores what truly defines rugby union: contest, fairness, safety, and a game for all shapes and sizes. From aerial contests and scrums to refereeing pressure and player welfare, the discussion asks a critical question — are we protecting rugby’s identity, or slowly eroding it?This is not about telling fans what to think. It’s about informing the rugby public, sparking healthy debate, and understanding how the laws should serve the game — not redefine it.

🎙️ Episode 1 of a 3-part Rassie+ A Shape of The Game series.

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In the season finale of Rassie+, we go deep with one of South Africa’s most electrifying wings — Breyton Paulse.Born and raised in Boland on a farm, Breyton reflects on life as a small-town kid with big dreams, breaking through the barriers of expectation in a game that wasn’t always built for him.He opens up about the emotional toll of being labelled a “quota player” — and how that word shaped conversations in South African rugby for years.From standing out as a smaller player in a game dominated by size, to his iconic flick flack celebration (with Rassie’s unexpected contribution), this episode is filled with heart, honesty, and history.🎁 Final GiveawayTo thank you for watching the season, Rassie is giving away 5 signed books to the top 5 most liked comments on this episode.

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In this episode of Rassie+, Rassie sits down with the legendary big man of South African rugby, Os du Randt — the man fans have been begging to see on the show. Os opens up about how he earned his iconic nickname, his role in what many call the "original Bomb Squad," back in 2005 and the unconventional (and hilarious) ways his father toughened him up for the front row — including carrying heavy loads and literally having to stand on his head to make his neck strong. It's a raw, funny, and inspiring chat with one of South African rugby’s most loved figures.

Rassie Erasmus and Nick Mallett — two giants of South African rugby with a complicated history.From coach and player to critic and strategist, their relationship has played out in the public eye with no shortage of headlines.Now, for the first time, they come together — not to settle scores, but to share stories, perspectives, and a deeper understanding of the game they both love.It’s honest, it’s surprising, and it’s a moment South African rugby fans didn’t see coming.#RassiePlus #NickMallett #SmashSports #Springboks #SouthAfricanRugby

In this episode of Rassie+, Rassie Erasmus is joined by scrum guru, former Springbok, and the man behind the iconic bucket hat — Daan Human. From humble beginnings on a Free State farm to the frontlines of France’s rugby powerhouses, Daan shares his remarkable journey through the world of rugby.
They unpack everything from Daan’s love-hate relationship with scrum machines, his transition from player to coach, and the art (and chaos) of scrumming in modern rugby. It’s a raw, insightful, and often hilarious conversation between two of rugby’s sharpest minds.

Whether you’re a front-row fanatic or just love hearing the stories behind South Africa’s rugby legends, this one’s for you.

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From Despatch to Bloemfontein — in this special episode of Rassie+, Rassie Erasmus sits down with two Free State rugby legends: Jaco Peyper and Helgard Müller.

They dive deep into the golden era of Cheetahs rugby, reliving the journey of breaking a 29-year title drought, and the transition from player to coach. Rassie and Jaco share hilarious stories from their varsity days — including when Jaco used to ref Rassie’s games (and wasn’t afraid to blow the whistle against him!).

This episode is packed with behind-the-scenes insights, untold stories, and plenty of laughs from three men who helped define Free State rugby.

Watch now and don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to Smash Sports for more episodes of Rassie+.

The Rassie+ episode you've all been waiting for is finally here. Rugby icon Danie Gerber joins Rassie Erasmus for an unfiltered conversation about his legendary career, and the rich history and legacy of South African rugby — as told by two proud Despatchers.For weeks, fans have been asking for Danie — and now, we deliver.🟢Make sure to subscribe for more exclusive conversations with South African rugby legends.#RassiePlus #DanieGerber #Springboks #SmashSports #RassieErasmus

In Part 2 of Rassie + with Steven Kitshoff, we wrap up a powerful conversation with the Bok legend. Kitshoff opens up about the origins of the Bomb Squad, the unforgettable win against New Zealand at Wellington, and what it meant to play under Rassie Erasmus.

Rassie also shares his ideas on a dedicated scrum referee the injury that changed his rugby career, and reflects on South Africa’s Rugby World Cup victories — while giving full credit to the All Blacks as worthy opponents.

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