Malcolm Marx has spoken publicly for the first time about the arm injury he sustained during Kubota Spears' Japan League One semifinal against Saitama Wild Knights in May, admitting he feared it could end his Test season before it began.
"It could have been worse but fortunately I caught it early enough to make sure it was manageable and thankfully I'm through that now," Marx said, confirming the injury was to his bicep. He was spotted with his left arm in a sling after the match, prompting concern over his availability for the Springboks' winter series.
The 32-year-old recovered in time to start against England at Ellis Park, delivering one of the standout performances of the opening weekend — scoring a try and leading the team in tackles in the 45-21 win. He was rested for the Scotland Test and returns to the starting lineup on Saturday when South Africa face Wales at Kings Park.
With 88 caps, Marx is the third-most experienced player in the matchday squad, behind Damian de Allende (98) and Jesse Kriel (89), but dismisses any suggestion that seniority translates to security.
"I always work as hard as I can to be here, whether it's the first one or wherever I am now. I'll still keep working hard because I know what an amazing environment we have here and what an honour it is to represent the Springboks."
Despite South Africa's 73-0 demolition of Wales in Cardiff the last time the sides met — a record-breaking result that included 11 unanswered tries — Marx is not anticipating a straightforward afternoon. Wales arrive in Durban on the back of a 35-21 defeat to Argentina, but Marx points to the nature of back-to-back Test series as a leveller.
"Wales are a proud, tough side regardless of their previous results. They are extremely physical and well-drilled. When you play the same international side in a series, they always bring a great tactical plan and immense physicality."