Marx sticks up for the maul

Springbok hooker Malcolm Marx has defended South Africa's reliance on rolling mauls amid growing debate surrounding the tactic's role in rugby. Speaking ahead of Friday's clash against France in Paris, Marx emphasized the collective effort required by the forward pack, stating that he merely finishes off the hard work done by the players setting the platform upfront.

The discussion followed South Africa's 66-7 win over Italy, where Rassie Erasmus' side scored five of their nine tries through mauls, including two from Marx. The 95-cap forward, who holds the record for most Test tries by a South African forward with 31, also addressed his upcoming transfer to the Bulls following seven years playing in Japan.