Abrahams chuffed with Kolbe comparison

SPOTLIGHT: Sharks flyer Thaakir Abrahams described Springbok superstar Cheslin Kolbe as an inspiring figure.

The 21-year-old Abrahams, who grew up in Paarl in the Western Province, has been compared to the World Cup winner due to his frame and his ability to beat opponents with his excellent footwork.

Over the weekend, Abrahams dazzled with three tries in the Sharks’ 56-14 win over the Lions at Ellis Park.

Thaakir Abrahams has unbelievable footwork 🕺#CurrieCup @TheSharksZA pic.twitter.com/Ea1yy0Hr8P

— Jared Wright (@jaredwright17) August 22, 2021

“He [Kolbe] has done really well, he’s an inspiration and certainly someone I look up to,” said Abrahams.

“He’s a great player, one of the best wings and finishers in the world, so to be compared to him is quite an honour.”

Abrahams also had plenty of big names to look up to during his school days.

Plenty of heroes

“Growing up I looked up to players like JP Pietersen and Bryan Habana.

“While I was playing in high school and primary school, those were the guys who were on form and guys I looked up.

“I always tried to watch their games every Saturday. I was quite excited to see them on the field,” Abrahams added.

Earlier this year Abrahams opened up about his struggles with a visual impairment from a young age. He talks about it as a challenge and how it has made him a stronger player.

“Yes, I do play with contact lenses,” said Abrahams. “I overcame it [visual impairment] at a young age, so I don’t take it as a struggle.

“I just look at it as a challenge.

“Once I took it on as a challenge, I overcame it and whatever comes my way I just take it as it comes,” said Abrahams.

The Sharks face Western Province in their final-round Currie Cup clash in Durban on Saturday.