The Biggest Man in Cricket

In the latest edition of The Biggest Man in Cricket, Pieter Malan reveals that he has officially called time on his playing career as he prepares to move full-time into coaching. We look back on a career built on grit, perseverance and an unwavering belief that his opportunity would come, eventually culminating in a Test debut for the Proteas against England at Newlands. He opens up about growing up in the fiercely competitive Malan household alongside brothers Janneman and Andre, the setbacks and sacrifices along the way, the fitness and professionalism that became hallmarks of his career, and what kept him going when the dream of playing for South Africa seemed a long way away. From refusing to give up on the dream to now helping the next generation chase theirs, this is the Pieter Malan story.

Some conversations are interviews. Others become part of history. Dr Ali Bacher has lived almost every chapter of modern South African cricket. From captaining one of the country's greatest teams, through international isolation, the rebel tours and South Africa's return to world cricket, few people have witnessed more from the inside. In this extraordinary conversation, recorded inside Dr Bacher's Johannesburg home and surrounded by priceless cricket memorabilia, he reflects on the moments that shaped both his own life and the future of South African cricket. This isn't simply the story of Ali Bacher. It's the story of South African cricket.

One of the greatest fast bowlers in cricket history, Allan Donald joins The Biggest Man in Cricket for one of his most personal and reflective interviews yet. From unforgettable battles with Sachin Tendulkar, Brian Lara, Steve Waugh and Michael Atherton, to his legendary years at Warwickshire, representing South Africa after readmission, and why the Royal Challengers Bengaluru family became such a special part of his coaching journey in the IPL, Donald opens up on the moments that shaped his career. He also shares why mentoring the next generation of South African fast bowlers, including Kwena Maphaka, has become one of his greatest passions. This is the story behind White Lightning - the competitor, the coach and the man.

For years, Wayne Parnell was one of South African cricket's most talked-about and scrutinised figures. He grew up in the public eye, faced criticism from every angle, and learned some tough lessons along the way. In this honest conversation, Wayne reflects on that journey, how fatherhood has given him a new perspective, and why his greatest purpose today extends beyond his own playing career. While the fire to compete still burns, he's equally passionate about helping shape the next generation of cricketers. This is a conversation about resilience, maturity, identity, family, and finding purpose beyond the headlines.

Dave Rundle was one of the premier off-spinners in South African cricket during the late-80s and early-90s, representing both Western Province and South Africa during a distinguished playing career. After hanging up his boots, he became one of the country's most respected player managers, helping guide some of the biggest names in world cricket through the professional era. From managing Jacques Kallis from the very start of his international career to nurturing the next generation of stars such as Tristan Stubbs, Rundle shares fascinating insights into a role that extends far beyond contracts and commercial deals. Along the way, he shares hilarious stories from a remarkable journey in the game, reflects on cricket's evolution from the amateur era to the global business it is today, and reveals the relationships that have defined his career. Featuring a special guest appearance by some guy called Dale Steyn ...

It's The Biggest Man in Cricket's one year birthday, and to celebrate we have invited cricketing royalty to our Bootleggers studio! From making her international debut for South Africa while still at school, to becoming one of the most dominant batters in world cricket, Laura Wolvaardt’s journey has been extraordinary. The Proteas captain reflects on the evolution of her game across all three formats, the pressures of leading her country, and the expectations that come with being one of the faces of women’s cricket. She also opens up on life as a global franchise cricketer, with experiences in the WPL in India, the Big Bash in Australia and The Hundred in the UK. With the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England fast approaching, Wolvaardt discusses belief, leadership and South Africa’s ambitions of finally going one step further on the world stage. At just 27 years old, Laura Wolvaardt is already a global superstar. She now looks destined to become one of the greats of the game.

Episode 20 features former Proteas allrounder Robin Peterson, who unpacks the Warriors’ return to silverware, his work in developing South Africa’s rising talent, and his journey as an attacking spin bowling allrounder for the Proteas. Robbie P also shares insights on his move into coaching and his success with the Mumbai Indians family, including MI New York and MI Cape Town. And, of course, there is a fair share of cricketing anecdotes, from bowling THAT over to the great Brian Lara, to the maverick Meyrick Pringle hiding dead animals in the St George's Park locker room...

From cricket’s isolation era to the heart of modern greatness, Vincent Barnes has seen it all - and shaped a lot of it too. We talk about how he turned a career cut off from the world stage into a coaching journey that helped produce absolute legends like Dale Steyn, Vernon Philander and Morne Morkel. There are also some proper behind-the-scenes stories, including chaos and laughs with Herschelle Gibbs before that unforgettable 438 game, the 'changing of the guard' from the Pollock to the Smith era, and how Makhaya Ntini went from background bowler to the attack leader. But this is not just nostalgia. Vincent breaks down what it actually takes to compete at the highest level, the mindset, the discipline, the standards and why so few truly make it. Now he is building the future through Schools SA20, passing it all on to the next generation. If you love cricket, this one is full of gems you will not hear anywhere else.

The Biggest Man in Cricket is on the road this week, with former Proteas and Eastern Province allrounder Dave Callaghan opening the doors to his beautiful home in St Francis. 'Callars' talks candidly about the characters in that all-conquering EP team, from the larger-than-life trio of Meyrick Pringle, Vlam Michau and Rod McCurdy, to the brilliant - and oftentimes uncompromising - leadership of Kepler Wessels. From his career-defining 169* not out against New Zealand in 1994, to a surreal experience involving Hansie Cronje as news of the match-fixing scandal shocked the world. And, April being Testicular Cancer Awareness month, he talks openly about his battle with the disease, and how it helped shaped him as a person.

From his roots in Welkom to grinding it out for Free State, Dean Elgar ’s journey is built on hard work, grit and an unshakeable mindset. He opens up about his rise through the ranks, facing 158km/h thunderbolts from Mitchell Johnson on Test debut in Perth, battles with Virat Kohli, and playing a massive role in setting the Proteas on their way to World Test Championship glory. He reflects on filling some of the biggest boots in world cricket, the battles that defined his career, and what it really means to be a true team man. Now in the twilight of his career and enjoying his time with Essex in county cricket, he shares perspective on the journey, the sacrifices, and the moments that made it all worth it. This is a story of resilience, leadership and pride.

The Cook name is woven into South African cricket history, but Ryan Cook has built a coaching career that stands firmly on its own. Mentored by Gary Kirsten and Adrian Birrell, his journey has taken him from the Bangladesh national team to the intensity of franchise cricket in the Indian Premier League and SA20, and now to leading the Netherlands on the world stage. Under his watch, the Dutch have become genuine giant killers at World Cups, including the Proteas at the 2023 ODI showpiece in India. In this episode, we get into the detail: the real challenges Associate nations face: How belief is built in environments with fewer resources. The balance between skill and character. Franchise cricket versus international cricket. And what Dutch cricket could look like five years from now. We also look ahead to the upcoming IPL season and what modern coaching at the highest level actually demands.

From first-class cricketer to elite international umpire, Marais Erasmus takes us inside the pressure, preparation and precision required at the highest level of the game. We unpack what it really takes to become an elite umpire, how technology like DRS has changed decision-making, and what it was like standing in the middle during the unforgettable 2019 World Cup Final. Marais also shares stories from the international circuit and opens up about managing big personalities like Virat Kohli, Stuart Broad and Babar Azam. Insightful, honest and packed with behind-the-scenes stories from one of cricket’s most respected umpires.

The legendary Peter Kirsten joins us for a wide-ranging conversation on cricket and life. From piling on runs for Western Province and Border to a hugely successful County stint with Derbyshire, 'Kirsy' talks about the challenges of playing during South Africa’s years in isolation, and the pride of wearing the Proteas badge after readmission to international cricket. He reflects on his 1992 World Cup heroics, the Kirsten family legacy, leadership under the late, great Clive Rice, and unforgettable meetings with Nelson Mandela and Mother Teresa. Episode proudly powered by Oppo!

From a young boy on the Cape Flats to playing World Cups for his country and becoming the most decorated player in South African domestic cricket, Farhaan Behardien’s journey is anything but ordinary. In this episode, 'Fudgie' opens up about learning his cricket in Cape Town before carving out a legendary career with the Titans, a player opponents hated facing, but a team-mate you’d go to war with every single day. We unpack the highs and lows of his Proteas career, the harsh realities of international cricket, and the resilience required to stay true to yourself at the highest level. Episode proudly powered by Oppo!

The Biggest Man in Cricket sit down with Omar Henry, a true historical figure in South African cricket. We explore his remarkable journey from a purpose-driven playing career to his long-standing connection with Scottish cricket, where he now serves in a presidential role. With cricket in his blood, Henry reflects on his memories of the iconic Free State side led by Hansie Cronje and considers whether the successes of the past can guide the future of the domestic game. A powerful conversation with a man who has lived every chapter of cricket’s evolution.

South Africa’s Test wicket-keeper Kyle Verreynne joins The Biggest Man in Cricket for a grounded, honest and inspiring conversation. 'Scholesy' reflects on earning the Jacques Kallis bursary to Wynberg Boys’ and breaking into a strong Western Province side by performing when it mattered. He speaks about his long-standing relationship with Ashwell Prince, making his Proteas debut, and two career-defining moments: hitting the winning runs in the ICC World Test Championship Final at Lord’s, and again for Nottinghamshire as they won the County Championship. He also shares why he loves the current Proteas environment — a team that plays for each other and believes they’re never out of the game. Episode proudly powered by Oppo!

Paul Adams burst onto the scene with that unforgettable “frog in a blender” bowling action, but his story runs far deeper. From his club cricket roots and a one-on-one lunch with Nelson Mandela, to reinventing himself as a coach and even quoting poetry with the Proteas Women at a World Cup, this episode dives into one of South African cricket’s most iconic and original stars. Plus, hear how he once managed to piss off the fearsome Shoaib Akhtar! Episode proudly powered by Oppo!

Shukri Conrad reflects on his remarkable journey, from his early days as a teacher to leading South Africa on the world stage. He opens up about the emotion of chasing the World Test Championship, sharing the personal touch he brought to the team, and the joy of celebrating that moment with family and friends. Conrad discusses the hard yards he’s done as a coach at every level, and how he’s created a Proteas culture where every player belongs, can be themselves, and thrive in an environment built on trust and authenticity. He speaks candidly about making tough selection decisions, balancing performance with people, and staying true to the team’s values. He also looks back on his playing career during segregated cricket, explores his coaching philosophy and personal identity, and shares how his supportive wife and role as a father continue to shape the man and mentor he is today. With honesty and warmth, he reveals the importance of his close-knit management group, and recalls a recent conversation with Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus, offering unique insight into leadership and culture across South African sport.

Few players rise through the local club system to become legends of the international game, but Vernon Philander is one of them. From Western Province to the Proteas, he carved out a career defined by precision, grit, and unforgettable moments. His Test debut against Australia was the stuff of nightmares… for the Aussies. Nicknamed 'The Surgeon' for the way he dissected batting line-ups with unerring accuracy, Philander was at the heart of a relentless South African bowling attack that dominated world cricket. He never backed down from a challenge, relished the banter of the Barmy Army, and made Newlands his fortress — a ground that loved him every bit as much as he loved it. In this episode, we relive the career, the stories, and the legacy of Vernon Philander — a true Proteas great.

In the latest episode, The Biggest Man in Cricket is on the road - a road which leads to an apple farm in Elgin in the Western Cape. Strap in for a nostalgic trip down memory lane with the one and only Adrian Kuiper, the big-hitting middle-order batsman whose towering sixes into the Newlands crowd is etched in many a youngster's memory. He talks about the great Benson & Hedges era, squaring up to Clive Rice's 'Mean Machine', being greeted by 80 000 spectators at Eden Park, Rebel Cricket, watching the scoreboard change to '22 off 1 ball' in 1992, and THAT over from Craig McDermott. Oh, whether he ever hit a cricket ball into a Fish Hoek-bound train for the biggest six in history.

From a dream Test debut to IPL stardom and coaching stints around the world, JP Duminy’s career is a story of highs, lows, and fighting back. He opens up about resilience, faith and the tough, honest conversations with coaches like Shukri Conrad that shaped him. We also explore how the JP21 Foundation is changing young lives through cricket — and revisit his unbeaten 50 in the World Championship of Legends final, proving he still delivers when it matters most.

The Biggest Man in Cricket sits down with former Proteas speedster Brett Schultz, one of South African cricket’s most unforgettable quicks. Mentored by Kepler Wessels in Eastern Province, his story is one of raw talent, relentless aggression, and an impact that far outweighs his short international career. From terrifying Sri Lankan batsmen to becoming a cult hero in the mid-90s, Schultz brought fire to the Proteas attack during a pivotal time in the country's cricketing history. Injuries may have cut his playing career short, but the legacy is loud. This is a story of passion, pace, and playing with purpose. A must-listen for cricket fans who love the heroes who gave it their all.

In Episode 4, The Biggest Man in Cricket sits down with a legendary father and son duo from one of South African cricket’s most iconic families - Jimmy and Stephen Cook. Jimmy shares reflections from a remarkable career, including his historic role in South Africa’s readmission to international cricket, his chirps to a young Sachin Tendulkar, playing in the Rebel Tours, and his influential years at Somerset County Cricket Club in England. Stephen discusses what it was like to follow in his father’s footsteps, scoring a debut on Test debut, and how he’s now helping shape the game from the inside as a successful cricket administrator. Spanning generations, this conversation is rich with personal stories, cricketing insight, and a deep love for the game.

In the latest episode of the Biggest Man in Cricket, legendary fast bowler Dale Steyn talks about being a new father, his love of raw pace, striking fear into batsmen, cruising with Adam Sandler's bulldog, trying (and failing) to buy a be

From saying a premature goodbye to South African Cricket, to a surprise Proteas comeback, Dane Piedt’s story is anything but ordinary. In this episode of The Biggest Man in Cricket, Dane brings his trademark humour and no-holds-barred honesty as we unpack his journey from Test cricket to chasing the American dream — and now, an unexpected return to South African cricket with the Knights in Bloem. There’s banter, bold calls, dressing-room honesty and tour stories for days ... and a reminder that you should never count out a good spinner.

In the very first episode of The Biggest Man in Cricket, host David Brooke sits down with a true titan of South African cricket – Ashwell Prince. From his gritty rise through domestic cricket to captaining the Proteas, Ashwell shares raw, unfiltered stories of resilience, leadership, and life after the game. This isn’t your average cricket chat. It’s about mindset, identity, and what it really takes to make it at the highest level — on and off the field. Expect laughs, goosebumps, and moments that will stick with you long after the final over.