Rassie Erasmus has revealed another tactical experiment that could see Malcolm Marx operate in an unfamiliar position for the Springboks.
The experienced hooker is being considered for a role on the flank as South Africa continues to explore the value of versatile, multi-position players.
The potential switch is part of Erasmus’ broader approach to squad management, with the Springbok coach looking for ways to protect players, manage workloads and build greater depth across his squad.
Malcolm Marx could get a run at flank
Marx is listed among the replacements for Sunday’s Test against Australia in Perth, but Erasmus revealed that the hooker could potentially be deployed at flank during the match.
“Even later in the game, if Ox Nché comes on, Jan-Hendrik (Wessels) might move to hooker, and we’ve been trying Malcolm on the flank as well,” Erasmus explained.
The coach said the experiments are designed not only to manage player workloads but also to increase the squad’s tactical flexibility.
“We’re trying to save the bodies, and manage the guys while winning but also building some squad depth,” Erasmus said.
Marx is no stranger to the physical demands of the breakdown, and his work as a ball carrier and turnover threat could make the flanker experiment an intriguing option.
Springboks embracing hybrid players
Erasmus has increasingly shown a willingness to use players outside their traditional positions.
Andre Esterhuizen, for example, has been used at both inside centre and flank, giving South Africa another option when the game requires a different tactical approach.
Erasmus has also suggested that Paul de Villiers could potentially be tested at centre in the future after playing primarily at openside flank.
For Sunday’s match, however, De Villiers will start at No. 6 while Marco van Staden takes the No. 8 jersey.
Erasmus believes the battle at the breakdown could be decisive against Australia.
“If you take Paul, Marco, Elrigh, Jasper if he comes on, André Esterhuizen and others, I think the breakdown battle is going to be massive,” he said.
He also highlighted the threat posed by Australia’s breakdown specialists, including Fraser McReight.
“Marco will have a massive impact there,” Erasmus added.
Springboks team to face Australia
15 Aphelele Fassi
14 Edwill van der Merwe
13 Canan Moodie
12 Andre Esterhuizen (captain)
11 Ethan Hooker
10 Handre Pollard
9 Herschel Jantjies
8 Marco van Staden
7 Elrigh Louw
6 Paul de Villiers
5 Franco Mostert
4 Eben Etzebeth
3 Zachary Porthen
2 Johan Grobbelaar
1 Jan-Hendrik Wessels
Replacements: Malcolm Marx, Ox Nche, Wilco Louw, Lood de Jager, Jasper Wiese, Morne van den Berg, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Quan Horn.
The Test kicks off at 11:45 South African time, with the match being broadcast live on SuperSport.
Marx’s potential move to the flank adds another intriguing layer to Erasmus’ selection strategy and could provide the Springboks with yet another tactical option during the match.
