Conor Murray to host new BBC rugby podcast: The Ireland Rugby Social launches this week

From left: BBC Sport NI’s Gavin Andrews and Conor Murray

Former Ireland and Munster scrum-half Conor Murray is set to front a brand-new rugby podcast for the BBC, bringing his deep experience and passion for the game to fans across Ireland and beyond.

The Ireland Rugby Social, presented by BBC Sport NI, will launch on Tuesday 28 October and see Murray team up with broadcaster Gavin Andrews for a series of weekly conversations exploring the biggest stories in Irish and international rugby.

With 125 caps for Ireland, five Six Nations titles, and two Grand Slams, Murray is among the country’s most decorated players. Now, he’s swapping the pitch for the podcast mic to share the kind of insight only a player of his calibre can offer.

“Rugby has been such a big part of my life for so long, so I think staying connected to it is a good idea,” Conor said.

“I can give some insight, get some guests with some interesting stories – stories that 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.”

Each week, Murray and Andrews will welcome players, coaches, and rugby insiders to discuss everything from Six Nations rivalries and World Cup memories to the evolving tactics of the modern game.

From left: BBC Sport NI’s Gavin Andrews and Conor Murray

Listeners can expect honest conversations, tactical analysis, and behind-the-scenes stories from across the rugby world.

Before the first episode airs, fans can get an early taste of what’s to come in a preview episode now available on BBC Sounds: Ireland Rugby Social – Welcome To The Ireland Rugby Social.

The debut episode will revisit one of Irish rugby’s most iconic moments: the historic 2016 victory over New Zealand at Soldier Field in Chicago.

Former Ireland and Ulster captain Rory Best will join the hosts to share his memories as Ireland prepare for another showdown with the All Blacks at the same venue.

Gavin Andrews, who has fronted BBC Sport NI’s rugby coverage for years, said fans can look forward to something special.

“Rugby fans, sport fans and anyone who loves a good podcast, are in for a real treat with Conor joining us for The Ireland Rugby Social,” Andrews said.

“Conor’s a sporting legend and brings an unbelievable depth of knowledge, respect and kudos from within the game. Over the course of the series, we will of course be analysing those big talking points with top players and coaches – past and present.

“I imagine we’ll have plenty of laughs and anecdotes from Conor and our guests. And we’ll also be bringing fans the lesser-known stories that connect the game with communities, the personal stories about how the game has changed lives and the role the game plays for people right across the island of Ireland.”

The Ireland Rugby Social will be available on BBC Sounds and all major podcast platforms from Tuesday 28 October.