As the most capped Brumbie in Super Rugby, and having spent 72 games in the front row for the Wallabies, Ben Alexander knows his rugby. In this episode of 'One Game at a Time' from Rugby World Magazine, Ben talks to Sam Roberts about life in the front row, starting his career in England's second tier with Dan Cole, playing against the Springboks, losing against the British and Irish Lions and even, taking on a completely different trio every day. It's a wonderful insight into a fascinating rugby journey and his outlook on life and rugby can only make you smile.

At one point in the interview, we discuss the tragic suicide of Dan Vickerman, one of Ben's former Wallaby teammates. It's a tough but important listen and goes to show how important it is to talk to and look after each other. If you are affected by anything you hear in the podcast, please do speak to someone. You can 'phone 116 123, 24 hours a day or visit the Mental Health Matters website - www.mhm.org.uk

The youtube clips we use to look at the game from the Rugby World Cup in 2011 are here:

First half https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8u5kAUKUaos&t=1907s

Second half https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AurzdlF_ayY

You can watch along with us by following the timecodes given.

Ben's internet connection wasn't the best but we made it through (with some clever editing) and I do hope you enjoy listening to Ben as much as we did.

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Having recently announced a move to North America's Major League Rugby, it seemed a perfect time to speak to Chris Robshaw and reflect on a quite incredible career. As well as examining the Aviva Premiership Final from 2012, we talk about playing his first game in the RFU Championship, the difference between backs and forwards, loyalty to 'Quins, preparing in the sun, letting go of games and even, how to look after everyone's mental health. He has been a superb servant to the English game and this discussion is a wonderful insight into his experiences.

We watch clips from this full match replay on youtube and by following the time codes given, you can watch along too.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o9fjvE3Rr3o

If you like this podcast, please leave us a review and let people know. If you have any requests of matches and players you'd like us to talk to, get in touch.

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Many people can remember watching European Cup semi final between Cardiff and Leicester in 2009, mainly because it was decided by a rugby rarity: a penalty shootout. Jordan Crane had the difficult role of taking the match winning kick and he talks us through not only the game, but the anxiety of the shootout itself. It's an enlightening discussion and sheds some light on a punishing rugby schedule, a dominant Leicester Tigers side and how nerves can affect us all.

Match highlights - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G8yIxQsEv_E&t=305s

Full replay of the penalty shootout - press play with 10 seconds on the clip - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kmIzYvh9Dys

If you like this podcast, please leave us a review and let people know. If you have any requests of matches and players you'd like us to talk to, get in touch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.