England No.2 hopeful Jamie George has launched a charm offensive on superstar Springbok hooker Malcolm Marx ahead of Saturday’s 5 pm showdown at Twickenham.
George, who is set to earn a fourth cap off the bench, hailed Marx as the world’s best player in his position.
The 28-year-old has been deputy to Bok veteran Schalk Brits at Saracens and he wants to test himself against Marx upfront.
He says: “Marx is a brilliant player, a talisman for [the Boks], and a very physical player that offers a lot around the loose. His setpiece is also very good.
“If we can nullify the positive aspects of his game then we will go a long way to winning it.
“I want to be the best hooker in the world, and you need to challenge yourself against the best players out there.”
Marx, though, will not take the bait, rather staying humble and focusing on the battle against Roses skipper Dylan Hartley and George.
The Lions star missed the three-match June visit of Eddie Jones’ manne and is keen to give a good account of himself against his London hosts.
He says: “I have not played against either of them. My only experience of playing against England was when their U18 team toured South Africa.
“Obviously I have had a good look at my potential opposition but my main job is to keep improving as a player so I can make maximum contribution to my team. But I have great respect for them.
“If I have had any personal success, it is because of the success of the team they have put me into positions to do well. So the team gets the credit.”