Springboks: Who’ll fill the big Malcolm Marx hole?

The news that Malcolm Marx will in all likelihood miss the Springboks’ series against England has put national coach Rassie Erasmus in a sticky situation.

The bruising Lions hooker’s hamstring injury will keep him out for at least six weeks and his absence has shown that South Africa lacks depth in the No 2 jersey.

Have the Boks relied too heavily on Marx’s presence?

ALSO READ: Rassie Erasmus dealt massive first blow as Springbok coach

Erasmus only invited four hookers to his three Springbok alignment camps, of which two in Marx and the Stormers’ Bongi Mbonambi are both injured.

Who can the Bok mentor call on?

We judge a few candidates.

ADRIAAN STRAUSS (BULLS)

(Technically he’s still retired from international rugby but it’s understood Erasmus is really keen for him to reverse that decision.)

Why he should be picked: Strauss has been superb under John Mitchell and seems to have regained his appetite for the game. He’s vastly experienced and of proven class. He would also still be willing to be a deputy if the Boks want to pick a longer-term option (younger) option in Marx’s absence.

Why he shouldn’t be picked: There’s no official confirmation that he’s coming out of international retirement.

Verdict: The ideal pick. He can be first-choice against England and then Marx’s wise understudy.

CHILIBOY RALEPELLE (SHARKS)

Chiliboy Ralepelle. (Photo by Steve Haag/Gallo Images)

Why he should be picked: The former Junior Springbok captain is well acquainted with the national setup after being involved all year in 2017. Despite being in a rotation system at his franchise, Ralepelle was lauded by Sharks coach Robert du Preez for his leadership and enthusiasm on the tour to Australasia. When he’s on form, he’s a solid, reliable option.

Why he shouldn’t be picked: Game time remains a problem for him, not that it prevented him from making the national squad last year. However, his lack of minutes on the field does create negative vibes in the camp over his inclusion.

Verdict: He’ll be part of the mix but it’s unlikely he’ll be first-choice.

AKKER VAN DER MERWE (SHARKS)

Akker van der Merwe. (Photo by Steve Haag/Gallo Images/Getty Images)

Why he should be picked: He’s a pocket rocket. Brilliant in broken play due to his smart running lines and willingness to take contact. A decent scrummager and excellent impact player.

Why he shouldn’t be picked: Van der Merwe still lacks consistency in his basic skills such as the line-outs. Also, is he considered the first-choice hooker at his franchise?

Verdict: He won’t let anyone down but he probably won’t be picked.

BISMARCK DU PLESSIS (MONTPELLIER, FRANCE)

Bismarck du Plessis. Photo: Getty Images.

Why he should be picked: Du Plessis is the closest like-for-like replacement for Marx. In fact, Marx has admitted on various occasions that he models his game on his legendary compatriot. Du Plessis is a poacher, a bruising runner and a fine scrummer. Surely his experience means he won’t take too long to adapt?

Why he shouldn’t be picked: Does he still have the appetite after a two-year absence? His hotheadedness still remains a problem – as evidence by him picking a fight with his own teammates in France earlier this year.

Verdict: Just doesn’t feel worth it, especially if Strauss decides to return.

RAMONE SAMUELS (STORMERS)

Ramone Samuels. (Photo by Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images)

Why he should be picked: Without bursting onto the scene, he’s handled the unexpected responsibility of first-choice No 2 at Newlands well by gradually improving in every game. His fundamentals are solid.

Why he shouldn’t be picked: He hasn’t been THAT good.

Verdict: An outside pick at best.

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