‘Lions hold no fear for us’ – Malcolm Marx

Colin Newboult 23 Jun 2021 7:28 AM

Malcolm Marx of South Africa during the Sprinboks Annoucement at Harley Studios, Johannesburg, on 02 May 2021 ©Samuel Shivambu/Sports Inc

South Africa hooker Malcolm Marx does not believe that their lack of preparation time will hamper the team during their three-Test series against the British and Irish Lions.

The Springboks will face Georgia in two matches in early July, which will be the side’s first games since the 2019 World Cup triumph due to the issues surrounding Covid.

There are concerns over whether Jacques Nienaber’s men will be physically and mentally ready for the challenge of the Lions, given that the players haven’t featured at that level in almost two years.

Marx has no concerns, however, and insists that they will be at their best.

Covid issues

“For me personally, there is no fear,” he told reporters.

“It’s a world pandemic and unfortunately we haven’t been able to play, but that’s something we’ll have to deal with.

“But for me personally, I feel we will be fine.”

Following the World Cup, Marx stayed in Japan to sample rugby and life over there, and the 33-times capped Springbok says that he has learned plenty over the past two years.

“The game over there is extremely quick — I’m not saying it’s not physical, it’s still a challenge in that department, but just a different type of challenge,” Marx said.

“It’s been really a really good experience.

“I didn’t know what to expect going there after the World Cup. But obviously having been there for the World Cup made it a really rewarding experience.

“It’s a great place to live. I’m learning different things there, so psychologically, it’s been pretty good.”