Malcolm Marx returning to South Africa in 2027: what we know

Springbok hooker Malcolm Marx will leave Japanese club Kubota Spears when his contract ends after the 2026/27 season and return to South Africa, the club announced on Friday, 30 October 2026 (Japan Rugby League One). He will play one more season in Japan first.

Why is Malcolm Marx leaving Japan?

Marx says it is for family reasons. "Due to family reasons, I have made the difficult decision not to extend my contract beyond the 2026/27 season and will be returning to South Africa," he said in the club statement (Japan Rugby League One).

Kubota general manager Hironori Maekawa said the club respected Marx's wish to spend more time with his family, and that both sides agreed to part ways when his contract expires in June 2027 (Japan Rugby League One).

When does he come home?

Dates from Japan Rugby League One.

Which South African team will he join?

No South African team has announced signing him, and Marx did not name a club. KickOff reports that he is heading to the Bulls (KickOff), while RugbyPass reports that the Bulls sounded him out earlier this year and that the Sharks could also be interested (RugbyPass). Treat these as unconfirmed until a club makes an official announcement.

What has Marx achieved?

Figures from the Kubota Spears announcement, as at 30 October 2026. He has been in Japan since 2020 and played for the Lions before that (Japan Rugby League One).

Does this affect the Springboks?

Not right now. Marx is one of two hookers in the Springbok squad for the Nations Championship Tests in November, which start against Italy on Saturday, 7 November (SA Rugby). See the full Springbok squad and November dates.