World Rugby Men’s Player of the Year Malcolm Marx insists the Springboks are bracing for a confrontational clash against Wales at Hollywoodbets Kings Park on Saturday.
The encounter marks the Boks’ third and final home fixture in the Nations Championship.
Despite South Africa's dominant recent track record against the visitors, Marx dismissed any suggestions of a straightforward victory.
“Wales are a tough side regardless of their previous results,” Marx warned. “They are extremely physical and well-drilled. In the past couple of years, it's always been a tough battle. They don't go away, so we know it’s going to take a full 80-minute performance.”
Head coach Rassie Erasmus has made heavy rotations following last week's Test against Scotland, naming a significantly altered matchday squad that features four debutants.
Among the fresh faces is Bordeaux prop Carlu Sadie, who earns his first Test cap alongside Marx in the front row.
“He's had a great season at Bordeaux, and now he's getting his opportunity,” said Marx, who previously packed down with Sadie at the Lions in 2018 and 2019. “I know what he can do. It's just about testing combinations, seeing what works best, and I'm looking forward to the challenge.”
For Marx, the altered team sheet does not change the squad's core objective: maintaining upward momentum and refining technical execution.
“The game of rugby is not perfect, and there will always be errors,” Marx acknowledged. “For us this week, it’s just about working on the small things that we felt we didn't get right last week, and trying to improve in those areas. We are working on those one or two percenters to get better this weekend.”