Two-time Rugby World Cup winner Frans Malherbe is refusing to give up on his rugby career, despite a lengthy injury nightmare that has kept him out of action since March 2025.
The 35-year-old Frans Malherbe has been one of South Africa's most reliable performers for more than a decade, helping the Springboks win back-to-back World Cups in 2019 and 2023.
But the veteran prop now faces a very different challenge.
Persistent neck and back problems have left his playing future uncertain, with the possibility of retirement hanging over one of the most respected front-rowers in world rugby.
Malherbe breaks silence on injury nightmare
There is finally some encouragement for Springboks supporters.
Speaking on Boks Unpacked X The Verdict, Malherbe revealed he has returned to training with the Stormers, although he is not yet taking part in contact sessions.
"I think the bigger picture is that there has been good improvement," he explained.
"I have started training with the team, team training without contact and stuff like that."
And the famously understated prop even found time for a joke about his rehabilitation.
"It's obviously very nice to do rugby training, rugby-related, rather than just running back and forth – which is not my favorite part."
He added: "I will hopefully soon get stuck into a scrum."
His comments, reported by Planet Rugby, offer fresh hope after 19 months on the sidelines.
Rassie Erasmus intervenes as retirement looms
Malherbe came close to calling time on his career before Springboks boss Rassie Erasmus encouraged him to keep fighting.
The injury problems had become so severe that even everyday family activities were proving difficult.
Erasmus previously revealed that the veteran had seriously considered retirement but was persuaded to delay his decision.
The South Africa coach believes January could be a realistic target for a comeback, although that remains far from guaranteed.
Planet Rugby
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January decision could decide World Cup dream
Stormers director of rugby John Dobson has confirmed that Malherbe's future could become clearer in January 2027.
The prop was left out of the club's squad for the new season, with Wilco Louw recruited to strengthen their front row.
Dobson admitted that Malherbe is unlikely to play in the immediate future, with no firm decision made about retirement.
Rugby365
For a player who has won 76 caps and two World Cups, it would be a cruel way to bow out.
But Malherbe is not finished fighting just yet.
And with the 2027 Rugby World Cup approaching, one of South Africa's great modern props still has a reason to keep going.
