Ox Nche honours Malcolm Marx after World Rugby award: I’m privileged to be in a great team
Springbok Ox Nche (right) paid tribute to his teammates including Malcolm Marx (2nd from right)and acknowledges the significance of being the first prop nominated for World Rugby Player of the Year, highlighting the support and teamwork that contributed to his recognition.Picture: Patrick Hamilton/AFP
Image: Patrick Hamilton/AFP
Springboks prop was at a loss for words when he attempted to explain what it meant to simply be nominated for World Rugby Player of the Year.
Nche was nominated alongside hooker Malcolm Marx and lock Pieter-Steph du Toit.
Ultimately, Marx walked away with the top prize but becoming the first prop to be nominated for such an accolade was incredibly special for Nche.
Speaking last week at the opening of The Braai Republic fast-foof chain at Northgate, Nche explained what the nomination meant to him.
Springboks Star Nche Reflects on Overwhelming Recognition and Teamwork
“Yeah, I'm still digesting and I still can't believe it. Yeah, It's very overwhelming,” he said between long pauses and nervous laughter.
“I think every single player in the world aspires to be recognised as one of their best players in the world. But once it happens, you can't believe it. You get a bit emotional even now. I'm getting goosebumps.
“You think of all the hours that you put in, all the work, all the sacrifices you have to go through.”
Nche, who was ruled out of the November tour after picking up an ankle and knee injury in their first match against Japan, was quick to pay tribute to his teammates,
“To be nominated, I’m privileged to be in a great team, to be honest. And that's all I can say in regards to my nomination. That's what I'm saying. It’s testament to the team. Come scrum time, I can't scum alone. I need a a whole pack, I need everyone to buy in.
“Malcolm Marx, you know the work that he does off the ball. He also scums well, he also throws well.You have to have good locks to throw well. He has to have guys around you that you trust.
“The Springboks squad we’re in now, it's an honour to be honest. Every time I think about it, I think they are, I will never play with any other people besides them.”