KEY MAN: Malcolm in the middle: How Marx could swing key battles in SA’s favour

Malcolm Marx, the 2025 World Rugby Player of the Year, is set to play a pivotal role in the upcoming Test match between the Springboks and the All Blacks at Ellis Park. This Saturday's encounter is anticipated to be a critical battle for set pieces and breakdowns, with both teams employing distinct strategies.

South Africa's coach Rassie Erasmus has expressed concern over the All Blacks' "brutal" breakdown and maul tactics, which could potentially overpower the Bok pack. Conversely, All Blacks coach Dave Rennie has accused the South Africans of slowing down the game in recent matches.

Marx's ability to effectively steal the ball at the breakdown has earned him the nickname "the man in the middle." His performance could be instrumental in keeping the All Blacks in check. The Springboks have demonstrated their dominance in set pieces recently, having won five of the past six Tests against New Zealand and dominating the All Blacks pack in many of those contests.

Coach Erasmus has started Marx in 11 out of 14 Tests, with a goal of giving him 65 minutes or more in each match. However, he may not start Marx in all four tests due to the intensity of the fixtures and Marx's high workload. The Boks will enter the first Test with a psychological advantage, having won the last five Tests against New Zealand, but Marx insists they have something more to prove.