SharksIn the news
Springbok utility back Ethan Hooker opens up about his off-field obsessions, from chasing a low golf handicap to binging TV shows, and why he thrives when the game is on the line. | Backpagepix
RUGBYS GREATEST RIVALRY
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Golf, pop anthems and Sonny Bill: Inside Springbok star Ethan Hooker's off-field life

Springbok utility back Ethan Hooker opens up on his golf obsession, TV binging, childhood idols, and why he loves the brutal closing minutes of Test rugby.

  • Morgan Bolton
3 min read
Ethan Hooker opened up on his resilience through tragedy, his swift injury return, and his willingness to fit into Rassie Erasmus' Springbok plans last week. | Backpagepix
ETHAN HOOKER
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Through tragedy and injury, Ethan Hooker proves he has the heart for Test rugby

Rising Springbok and Sharks star Ethan Hooker opens up about his secret stint at eighthman, honoring his late father, and recovering from a severe shoulder injury.

  • Morgan Bolton
6 min read
Steven Kitshoff expects Malcolm Marx to deliver a monster performance at hooker when the Boks collide with New Zealand at Ellis Park. | Backpagepix
RUGBYS GREATEST RIVALRY
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EXCLUSIVE | Kitshoff: Boks will win battle up front against All Blacks

Former Springbok tells The National why he backs South Africa in the Ellis Park Test today.

  • Morgan Bolton
3 min read
Malcolm Marx is set for another titanic battle against the All Blacks as the Springboks prepare to kick off Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry at Ellis Park on Saturday. | Backpagepix
SPRINGBOKS

Malcolm Marx prepares for All Blacks clash as Springboks eye breakdown battle

Springbok hooker Malcolm Marx has spoken of his respect for the All Blacks and the haka ahead of Saturday’s showdown at Ellis Park.

  • Morgan Bolton
3 min read
All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie will use the clash at Loftus Versfeld to settle his starting lineup for the opening Test against the Springboks. | AFP
BULLS RUGBY

Why an All Blacks win at Loftus might actually suit the Springboks

As the Bulls prepare to host New Zealand at Loftus Versfeld, a victory for the visitors could be the ideal scenario for the Springboks ahead of next week's first Test at Ellis…

  • Mike Greenaway
3 min read
Richie Mo’unga’s call-up to the All Blacks squad adds extra spice to the flyhalf battle against the Springboks. | AFP
SPRINGBOKS

Richie Mo’unga recall elevates flyhalf duel ahead of Springboks Test series

The return of swashbuckling flyhalf Richie Mo’unga to the All Blacks squad sets up an enticing battle of playmakers against South Africa’s Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu.

  • Mike Greenaway
3 min read