Matt Pearce reaches commentary milestone

SuperSport broadcaster Matt Pearce commentated on his 150th Springbok test match when the Boks played the All Blacks in Cape Town over the weekend.

To mark the occasion we asked him to tell us more about himself.

What was the first match / Bok match you were commentator on for SuperSport?

First match was Vodacom Cup, Natal Wildebeest vs Border Bulldogs in Durban, 2005. First test was SA vs France in Cape Town, 2006.

What has been your favourite Bok match to have called on the mic? 

So hard to choose one, but 2019 RWC final probably had the most enjoyment factor for a variety of reasons.

Which is your favourite rugby ground in the world and why? 

Again, so hard to isolate one as they all have unique and special characteristics. Cardiff is incredible with the roof on, the Welsh singing and the ease of access to the stadium in the middle of the city.

Who was the biggest influence on your career?  

I loved listening to Bill McLaren and Hugh Bladen has been so ‘unbelievably’ supportive from the start!

What has been your favourite interview conducted? 

Jean de Villiers immediately after his exit from RWC 2015 and his retirement. It was very personal, raw and emotional.

The best Bok team you have seen play while commentating? 

Hard to distinguish between 2009 and the one we are seeing now!

Any words of advice for aspiring commentators? 

Preparation is everything…align preparation with passion and you are on the road. And never take anything for granted.

What is your preparation like ahead of a big test match? 

Plenty of detailed statistical research, attending training sessions, speaking with as many players and coaches as possible. The informal chats are often more valuable than the formal ones. It adds up to days of work that are worth every minute.

Sum Matt Pearce up in three words… 

Passionate, Caring, Grateful

Quick picks:

Joost or Fourie? Fourie

Malcolm or Bismarck? Malcolm…just!

Victor or Eben? You can’t make me choose, but I don’t have to… Eben at 4, Vic at 5. Thanks!

And finally – what do you want on your tombstone? 

Worked hard, played hard, cared deeply, loved life.