Conor Murray Launches New Rugby Podcast “The Ireland Rugby Social” with BBC | Full Details & Guest Lineup
This is an exciting move for Irish rugby fans, former Ireland international Conor Murray is returning to the spotlight — this time behind the microphone. Partnering with BBC Sport NI’s Gavin Andrews, the legendary scrum-half will co-host a brand-new rugby podcast titled The Ireland Rugby Social, set to launch on BBC Sounds and major podcast platforms from Tuesday, 28 October 2025.
This weekly series promises not just post-match analysis, but the kind of authentic locker-room stories and insider perspectives that only a player of Murray’s calibre can deliver.
Few names in Irish rugby carry the weight and respect of Conor Murray. With 125 international caps, five Six Nations titles, and two Grand Slams, Murray’s influence on and off the pitch is legendary.
Now, he’s set to bring that same insight and passion to a new audience of listeners eager for something beyond highlight reels and match statistics.
The show will feature intimate interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and in-depth discussions on the evolving world of rugby — from tactical insights to mental resilience and the changing culture of the sport.
🎙️ What to Expect from “The Ireland Rugby Social”
The podcast aims to blend professional analysis with personal storytelling, creating a relaxed yet informative listening experience for fans.
Weekly Episodes Include:
Exclusive interviews with current and former players
Candid conversations with coaches and rugby insiders
Deep dives into Ireland’s biggest matches and moments
Unfiltered perspectives on the physical and emotional demands of elite rugby
Co-host Gavin Andrews, a respected BBC presenter, brings his broadcasting expertise and journalistic flair to balance Murray’s insider’s perspective — ensuring every episode offers depth, insight, and entertainment.
🏆 Rory Best Headlines the First Episode
The series kicks off with none other than Rory Best, former Ireland and Ulster captain, who joins Murray and Andrews for a revealing conversation about one of the most iconic chapters in Irish rugby history — Ireland’s rematch against New Zealand at Soldier Field in Chicago.
That 2016 clash marked Ireland’s first-ever win over the All Blacks, ending a 111-year drought and reshaping the team’s global reputation.
Best shares behind-the-scenes stories from that historic victory and the emotional aftermath when Ireland faced New Zealand again shortly after.
💬 Conor Murray on Staying Connected to the Game
Reflecting on his new role, Murray said:
“Rugby has been such a big part of my life for so long, so I think staying connected to it is a good idea. I can give some insight, get some guests with some interesting stories — stories you maybe haven’t heard before. I know the guests we have will be able to relax and tell us their true thoughts and stories.”
Murray’s calm yet commanding presence — honed through years of leadership at the highest level — is expected to bring authenticity and depth to each conversation.
🎧 Gavin Andrews: “Rugby Fans Are in for a Real Treat”
BBC presenter Gavin Andrews expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration:
“Rugby fans, sport fans, and anyone who loves a good podcast are in for a real treat. Conor’s a sporting legend and brings unbelievable depth of knowledge, respect, and kudos from within the game. We’ll be analysing big talking points with top players and coaches, sharing anecdotes and personal stories about how the game has changed lives across Ireland.”
Andrews’ journalistic perspective complements Murray’s on-field experience, offering a perfect blend of professionalism and passion.
🇮🇪 Why “The Ireland Rugby Social” Matters
This podcast arrives at a time when Irish rugby is thriving on both the national and club levels. From Leinster’s dominance in Europe to Ireland’s record-breaking Six Nations campaigns, fans are eager for deeper insights into what fuels the country’s success.
“The Ireland Rugby Social” is more than a podcast — it’s a celebration of the Irish rugby community and the personalities that make it thrive. Expect discussions not just about tactics and performance, but also about:
Life after rugby — how players transition off the field
Mental health and resilience — the unseen challenges of professional sport
Grassroots development — nurturing the next generation of Irish talent
Women’s rugby — the fast-growing frontier of the game
🌍 The Broader Impact: From Clubhouse to Community
The creators of The Ireland Rugby Social hope to spark conversations beyond match results. Rugby, after all, has always been about connection, camaraderie, and culture.
Through laughter, storytelling, and honest dialogue, Murray and Andrews want to bridge the gap between players and fans, offering a space where the spirit of rugby can be celebrated in all its forms.
Expect episodes that mix nostalgia, humour, and raw emotion, while exploring the evolving identity of Irish rugby in a global context.
🔊 Where and How to Listen
Fans can catch The Ireland Rugby Social every Tuesday, beginning 28 October 2025, on:
BBC Sounds
Spotify
Apple Podcasts
Google Podcasts
And all major podcast platforms
Each episode will be available for streaming and download, with highlights shared across BBC Sport NI’s social channels.
🏉 About the Hosts
Conor Murray
Former Ireland and British & Irish Lions scrum-half
125 international caps
5 Six Nations titles
2 Grand Slams
Known for his leadership, precision passing, and unmatched game intelligence
Gavin Andrews
Veteran BBC Sport NI broadcaster
Experienced interviewer and storyteller
Renowned for insightful sports coverage and compelling on-air presence
Together, they bring both expert analysis and human connection — a hallmark of great sports journalism.
💡 The Future of Rugby Media
Podcasts like The Ireland Rugby Social represent the future of fan engagement in sports. In an era where audiences crave authenticity over perfection, this series bridges generations — from seasoned fans who grew up watching Murray play, to young listeners eager to understand the game from the inside out.
As more athletes move into broadcasting and podcasting, expect this format to shape the next chapter of sports storytelling.
⚡ Key Takeaways
Launch Date: 28 October 2025
Platform: BBC Sounds & all major podcast apps
Hosts: Conor Murray & Gavin Andrews
Focus: In-depth rugby insights, untold stories, and authentic conversations
First Guest: Rory Best, discussing Ireland’s 2016 win over the All Blacks
Tone: Candid, insightful, and deeply Irish
📰 Final Thoughts
With The Ireland Rugby Social, Conor Murray steps into a new role — not as a player, but as a storyteller, mentor, and voice of Irish rugby. Fans can expect laughter, honesty, and moments of reflection as he and Gavin Andrews explore the sport’s biggest personalities and defining moments.
As rugby continues to evolve, this podcast reminds us why we fell in love with the game in the first place: its people, its passion, and its powerful sense of community.
