{
  "id": 1232435,
  "title": "Bulls chasing Japan-based Bok star",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/16/bulls-chasing-japan-based-bok-star",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-16T08:30:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Citizen",
    "slug": "the-citizen",
    "url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/sport/rugby/bulls-chasing-japan-based-bok-star/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Vodacom Bulls are exploring the possibility of signing a Japan-based Springbok hooker, with Malcolm Marx reportedly considering a return to South Africa. The Bulls have made initial contact with the 32-year-old, but formal negotiations have not yet begun. Marx, who has been with his Japanese club Kubota Spears since 2021, would likely need a significant offer to make the move back to South Africa. The Bulls are looking to bolster their options at hooker, as Junior Bok Esethu Mnebelele is set to join the Sharks later this year, leaving Johan Grobbelaar, Juann Else, and Juandré Schoeman as the primary options within the Bulls. Additionally, Jan-Hendrik Wessels and Marco van Staden are also capable of playing the position. A source close to the Bulls camp believes that the competition for Marx's services will be intense, but the connection Marx already has with head coach Johan Ackermann could be a deciding factor. Marx played for the Lions from 2014 to 2019 before moving overseas.",
  "summary": "Marx already has a relationship with head coach Johan Ackermann, who was in charge of the Lions when the hooker began establishing himself at senior level.",
  "key_points": [
    "Vodacom Bulls considering signing Japan-based Springbok hooker Malcolm Marx.",
    "Marx, 32, played for Lions 2014-2019 before moving overseas.",
    "Bulls need significant offer to secure Marx's return to South Africa."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}