Rassie Erasmus has once again shown that he is willing to think outside the box as the Springboks look to build greater versatility and depth within their squad.
The latest experiment could involve one of South Africa’s most established players, with hooker Malcolm Marx being tested at flanker.
Erasmus revealed the intriguing possibility while announcing the Springbok side for Sunday’s Test against Australia in Perth.
“We’ve been trying Malcolm on the flank as well,” Erasmus said, explaining that the coaching staff are looking at ways to manage player workloads while continuing to develop squad depth.
Marx’s breakdown ability could make him an option
Although Marx is best known as a world-class hooker, the 32-year-old possesses several qualities that could translate effectively to the flank.
His strength, work rate and ability to compete aggressively at the breakdown could make him a useful option in a hybrid role, particularly during the latter stages of matches.
The experiment fits into a broader Springbok strategy of developing players who can cover multiple positions.
André Esterhuizen has already become a prominent example of this approach, having featured at both inside centre and flank. Erasmus has also indicated that openside flank Paul de Villiers could potentially be tested at centre.
The objective appears to be greater tactical flexibility while reducing the physical burden on individual players over a long Test campaign.
More experimentation in the back row
Marx is not the only forward being asked to operate outside his regular position against the Wallabies.
Marco van Staden will start at No. 8 rather than his usual openside-flanker role, with Elrigh Louw and Paul de Villiers completing the starting loose-forward combination.
Erasmus believes the breakdown battle could prove decisive against an Australian side featuring dangerous operators at the contest area.
The Springbok coach highlighted Van Staden’s ability to make an impact at the breakdown, particularly against players such as Fraser McReight.
“We’re trying to save the bodies, and manage the guys while winning but also building some squad depth,” Erasmus explained.
That philosophy could give South Africa another tactical option: using established players in unfamiliar positions when circumstances demand it.
Springbok team to face Australia
15 Aphelele Fassi
14 Edwill van der Merwe
13 Canan Moodie
12 André 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 Nché, 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 on Sunday, with the Springboks looking to continue building squad depth while maintaining their competitive edge.
