Skipper Bongi Mbonambi is confident Deon Fourie can slot in at hooker for the Springboks in France in the absence of regular Bomb Squad member Malcolm Marx.
Marx was on Thursday ruled out of the remainder of this year’s World Cup with a long-term knee injury, and his absence has presented an opportunity for Fourie to shine.
He will serve as hooker cover against Romania in Bordeaux on Sunday, and Mbonambi believes that the experienced and versatile 36-year-old has what it takes to step into the role after playing most of his rugby in the last few years at flanker.
Speaking in a Bok conference on Friday, Mbonambi told reporters: “We’ve been in the squad and system together for a while now, and apart from that Deon has been playing longer than I have, so while I’ll help him wherever he needs help, Malcolm and I have also learned from him.
“He played hooker for the Stormers for a few seasons, so he is fully capable of fulfilling that role.”
WATCH: Boks crash Brannas party
Mbonambi echoed head coach Jacques Nienaber’s sentiments on the loss of Marx, adding: “It’s a really big blow for us on and off the field. He always brought a lot of joy and laughter to the team, especially when him and Steven [Kitshoff] are together.
“So, we’ll miss him, and we wish him a speedy recovery.”
However, the World Cup winner does not view Marx’s injury as a bigger responsibility on his shoulders, and said he would simply continue to give his best.
“Malcolm and I play different styles of rugby, so for me it’s a case of continuing to give my best and to do everything I can to ensure the team is as successful as possible,” he added.
Mbonambi, too, is excited to wear the captain’s armband again for the world champions this weekend.
“It’s always an honour and privilege to captain the Springboks, and it comes with a huge responsibility,” he said. “But some of the players are participating in their third World Cup, so that will make my job easier on the day.”
Photo: Shaun Roy/BackpagePix