The Springboks have started the season with some relatively ‘low-key’ fixtures against the invitational Barbarians, Italy (twice) and Georgia, but during these broadcasts, many TV viewers have wondered where lead commentator Matt Pearce has been.
Pearce has commentated on over 150 SA games and has become the modern era ‘voice of the Springboks’, and many viewers have missed his popular commentary, especially when alongside equally eloquent and insightful Hanyani Shimange.
The good news is that both Pearce and Shimange are set to return for the Rugby Championship, with SuperSport – quite like the Springboks – having simply been looking to expand their commentary ‘depth’.
Who has been behind the Springbok mic in the absence of Matt Pearce?
While Pearce and Shimange have taken a breather, the Springboks have backed veteran broadcaster Paul Stubbs, supported by the likes of Jean de Villiers, Layla Arrison and even a new pitchside analyst in former Springbok women’s player Zenay Jordaan.
REMINDER OF THE REMAINING TEST SCHEDULE FOR 2025:
- 16 August: vs Australia, Ellis Park, Johannesburg. Kick off: 17:10.
- 23 August: vs Australia, DHL Stadium, Cape Town. Kick off: 17:10.
- 6 September: vs New Zealand, Auckland. Kick off: 09:05.
- 13 September: vs New Zealand, Wellington. Kick off: 09:05.
- 27 September: vs Argentina, Kings Park, Durban. Kick off: 17:10.
- 4 October: vs Argentina, London. Kick off: 15:00.
- 1 November: vs Japan, Brighton. Kick off: TBD.
- 8 November: vs France, Paris. Kick off: 22:10.
- 15 November: vs Italy, Turin. Kick off: 14:40
- 22 November: vs Ireland, Dublin. Kick off: 19:40.
- 29 November: vs Wales, Cardiff. Kick off: 17:10.
Have you missed the regular Bok commentators?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211.
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