Springbok hooker Malcolm Marx is set to make a highly anticipated return to South African rugby after agreeing to join the Vodacom Bulls in June 2027.
The 32-year-old will leave Japanese club Kubota Spears after seven years in Japan, bringing an end to a successful spell overseas. His move to Pretoria will see one of the world’s leading hookers add his experience and physical presence to the Bulls forward pack.
Marx has established himself as a key figure in the Springboks setup, earning 94 Test caps and scoring 29 tries for South Africa. His performances have made him one of the most influential forwards in international rugby.
The move also marks a reunion with Bulls head coach Johan Ackermann, who coached Marx during his time at the Lions and played an important role in his development. The two will now have the opportunity to work together again as the Bulls look to strengthen their squad and compete for major honours.
Marx’s arrival follows the Bulls’ signing of fellow Springbok forward Kwagga Smith, another experienced international returning from Japanese rugby. These additions underline the Pretoria franchise’s ambition to build a squad capable of challenging for silverware.
For Bulls supporters, the signing is a major boost. Marx brings world-class experience, leadership and a proven winning mentality, having lifted the Rugby World Cup with South Africa in 2019 and 2023.
His return will certainly add another exciting chapter to South African rugby, with fans eagerly awaiting the opportunity to see one of the Springboks’ biggest stars back on home soil.