John Smit has gone on record to say Malcolm Marx has surpassed him as the best hooker ever to wear the Springbok No. 2 jersey — and he means it without reservation. Speaking on the I Love Rugby podcast, Smit broke down what makes Marx genuinely irreplaceable: elite scrummaging, an accurate lineout throw, explosive carrying, jackal threat, and no meaningful weakness anywhere in his game. But Smit's deeper point is about Marx the person. He argues that Marx's character — his service to teammates, his composure, the confidence he radiates in a changing room before a big Test — is what elevates him beyond mere statistical greatness. With his 93rd cap imminent and a Rugby World Cup on the horizon, Smit sees Marx as one of those rare players opponents respect even as they dread facing him.
John Smit: Malcolm Marx is the greatest Springbok hooker of all time
John Smit names Malcolm Marx the greatest Springbok hooker ever, arguing his complete skillset and character make him irreplaceable — both on the field and in the dressing room.
Brown confirms post-2027 All Blacks move but eyes World Cup glory with Boks first
Springbok attack coach Tony Brown will join Dave Rennie's All Blacks staff from 2028, but remains committed to helping South Africa win a third successive World Cup title before his departure.
The Barbarians hit-out is a key cog in Rassie's World Cup machine
Nel makes the case that the Barbarians fixture is less about the result and more about Erasmus stress-testing depth, blooding uncapped talent, and keeping the World Cup-winning core fresh — all with 2027 firmly in mind.
Tony Brown to join All Blacks backroom staff in 2028 after Springbok contract ends
NZR have confirmed Tony Brown will join the All Blacks' backroom staff in 2028 on a two-year contract, with the Springboks attack coach set to depart after the 2027 Rugby World Cup. It is the third time NZR have pursued Brown, having previously been rejected during the Foster and Robertson eras.
Ntlabakanye handed 18-month ban that rules him out of 2027 Rugby World Cup
Lions prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye has been suspended for 18 months following doping violations involving Anastrozole and DHEA, with the ban running until 13 November 2027 — the day of the Rugby World Cup final — ruling him out of the tournament.
Rassie Erasmus to receive Order of Ikhamanga — South Africa's highest national honour
Rassie Erasmus will receive the Order of Ikhamanga — South Africa's highest national honour — from President Cyril Ramaphosa at an investiture ceremony on 19 May, recognising his role in the Springboks' back-to-back World Cup titles and his contribution to national unity.