Malcolm Marx’s World Rugby Player of the Year award is being celebrated in Japan.
The Kubota Spears hooker became the latest Springbok to claim the sport’s top individual honour.
Marx’s triumph makes it three consecutive years in which a JRLO-based player has been recognised, following fellow Bok Pieter-Steph du Toit and All Blacks loose forward Ardie Savea. It also underlines the growing influence of South Africa’s world champions on Japan’s elite competition.
MORE: Mighty Marx crowned world’s best
JRLO chairperson Genichi Tamatsuka said Marx embodies everything the league wants to represent – both for Japanese rugby and its growing South African contingent.
“Malcolm illustrates all that our league stands for, in terms of exciting and entertaining the fans, providing excellence on the field, while passing on the benefits of his experience, and the expertise that he has developed, to the Japanese players within the Spears team,” said Tamatsuka.
He added that Japan remains a prime destination for the world’s best talent, something reinforced by the continued success of its Springbok and All Black imports.
“It is very pleasing to have so many of the game’s biggest stars coming to Japan after their international commitments. Their ongoing excellence for their nations reflects the great preparation for Test rugby, both physically and mentally that they receive from playing in our League, due to its competitive nature, but also the excellent support in their and their families’ wellbeing they receive from club staff.”
KEO: Hooker colossus Marx hits new heights
The fifth edition of League One kicks off on 13 December, with Ricoh Black Rams Tokyo hosting Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath, while Marx’s Spears travel to Kobe to begin their title push later on opening day.
Photo: Koki Nagahama/Getty Images
The post Japan hails Marx’s World Player of the Year win appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.