Rassie’s radar | No sleepless nights for Springboks at hooker as No 2s line up

The jump in experience when it comes to the hooker position at the Springboks might raise some red flags; however, it’s a position that won’t give head coach Rassie Erasmus too many sleepless nights.

Although both senior Bok No 2s are in their 30s, a host of hungry youngsters are stepping up for their franchises, ready to be part of the national setup for the long term in the near future. Malcolm Marx is the incumbent, and South Africa will bank on him for a while, especially in crucial Tests against England and New Zealand in 2026.

We look at the options Erasmus will have at his disposal going forward.

Johan Grobbelaar | Bulls

He is probably next in line after Marx, with Bongi Mbonambi on the outskirts, and has regained the form that made him a Springbok. Grobbelaar has that fight in him that Erasmus values and has been the Bulls’ mainstay this season, with his accuracy at lineout time, strong carries and work at the defensive breakdown.

André-Hugo Venter | Stormers

The Stormers hardman has significantly improved since making his Bok debut in 2024. Although he hasn’t been involved with the side in 2025, his contributions at the Stormers will keep him in the conversation. He’s been accurate at lineout time and his tireless work around the park, on defence and attack, carries plenty of weight in the Springbok fold.

PJ Botha | Lions

While he is not a spring chicken anymore, late bloomers are not out of the question in the national setup. Utility forward Deon Fourie is a prime example in the Erasmus era. The 28-year-old Botha has been brilliant for the Lions in the middle of the scrum; he is an honest hard worker who brings lineout accuracy and an engine that keeps going, especially on defence.

Bongi Mbonambi | Sharks

Although Mbonambi is in the twilight of his illustrious career, he still produces the type of performances that will keep him in the Bok conversation this season. Yes, he’s missed a handful of the 2025 Tests, but the double World Cup winner has shown that he is a player the national side can still count on this season.

Malcolm Marx | Kubota Spears

He has firmly established himself as the No 1 hooker of the Springboks, and currently there is no one on his level. His absence is felt when he is not on national duty, especially against the top sides. Marx will remain the benchmark when it comes to Bok No 2s heading into 2026 and the Rugby World Cup next year.