- Malcolm Marx is back in the conversation for rugby’s biggest individual honour after another impressive Springboks campaign
- An All Blacks star has also caught Stephen Donald’s attention, setting up an intriguing awards race
- The former New Zealand flyhalf has already named one player he expects to feature among the leading contenders
Source: Twitter
Stephen Donald expects Springboks hooker Malcolm Marx to feature among the four nominees for the 2026 World Rugby Player of the Year award, potentially putting the reigning winner in contention for another title. The former New Zealand flyhalf shared his prediction on The Aftermatch podcast while discussing the performances that have caught his attention during the international season.
Donald also praised All Blacks centre Jordie Barrett following New Zealand’s opening Bledisloe Cup Test against Australia. He highlighted Barrett’s contribution beyond his attacking skills, pointing to the work rate that makes him an influential presence on the field.
Malcolm Marx’s case for another major award
Donald predicted that Marx would be among the four players shortlisted for the award, while suggesting that another South African could also make the final selection.
“Jordie definitely. You’ll see someone like a Marx who’ll be part of the four, and then maybe another South African – take your pick – and I’d imagine someone will come out of the Six Nations. Maybe Finn Russell,” Donald said, as quoted by SA Rugby Magazine.
Marx has continued to strengthen his reputation through his performances for the Springboks. His contribution was particularly noticeable during the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series against New Zealand, which South Africa won 3-1.
The hooker scored decisive tries in the third and fourth Tests in Johannesburg and Baltimore. His work in the scrum, at the breakdown and in the driving maul also made him an influential figure throughout the series.
Jordie Barrett and Finn Russell enter the conversation
Donald’s praise for Barrett focused on more than the All Blacks centre’s attacking skills. He highlighted the effort the player puts into his overall performance.
“Incredible performance again,” Donald said of Barrett. “It’s special to watch not just the fancy stuff that he does, it’s how hard he works. When you think of everything he does, he is in some form.”
Donald also mentioned Scotland flyhalf Finn Russell as a possible contender. He also left the door open for another Springbok to join Marx in the running.
What the 2026 World Rugby award race means
Marx won the World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year award in November 2025, becoming the fourth Springbok to receive the honour. He followed in the footsteps of Schalk Burger, Bryan Habana and Pieter-Steph du Toit.
The 2026 award race remains open, and Donald’s comments are predictions rather than confirmation of the official shortlist. Marx’s performances have nevertheless put him firmly in the conversation as South Africa continues to compete against the world’s leading rugby nations.
Source: Getty Images
Ox Nché gets backing from former England stars
Briefly News also reported that former England internationals Ben Youngs and Dan Cole backed Springboks prop Ox Nché for World Rugby Player of the Year recognition after his performances against New Zealand.
Youngs praised Nché’s all-round contribution, while Cole highlighted the Springboks’ speed and strength at the breakdown.
Source: Briefly News
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