Malcolm no longer in the middle? Rassie hints at new role for Bok powerhouse
by Craig Taylor · KickOffIt was said in response to a question about Jan-Hendrik Wessels and Johan Grobbelaar, who start at loosehead prop and hooker against the Wallabies, but Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus might have let the cat out of the bag about a specific scenario that could play out in Perth on Sunday.
Erasmus clearly likes players who can play in multiple positions, and it seems there’s a new role earmarked for Malcolm Marx.
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Erasmus was explaining his decision to start both Wessels and Grobbelaar, with Marx providing cover off the bench, but the Springbok coach also indicated that Wessels could move to hooker should the need arise, while Marx has been training at flanker as well.
Marx certainly has all the attributes of a loose forward, thanks to his defensive capabilities, bullocking runs, and ability to jackal and win ruck ball.
Erasmus threw the comment out more or less in passing, but it’s an intriguing idea, that’s for sure.
Erasmus explained that at 39 years old and after three Tests against New Zealand, Deon Fourie was more than deserving of a rest, and that Grobbelaar deserved his start.
“Deon playing three Test matches in a row at the age of 39, Grobbies deserves a chance now,” Erasmus said.
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But then he dropped the bombshell.
“Even later in the game, if Ox Nché comes on, Jan-Hendrik might move to hooker, and we’ve been trying Malcolm on the flank as well.”
For Erasmus, it’s all about keeping the Springboks as fresh as possible, with several more Test matches to come before the end of the year.
“We’re trying to save the bodies, and manage the guys while winning but also building some squad depth,” he added.
Marx at flanker certainly is an interesting option, but it’s one that gives the Springbok coach more choices, and that’s never a bad thing.