VIDEO: Sharks to reap rewards of Mapimpi's stint in Japan
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Sharks supporters will have to wait another two weeks before World Cup-winning Springbok star Makazole Mapimpi will take to the field.
The dynamic Bok wing Mapimpi has been training with the Sharks following his return from a stint with Japanese side Red Hurricanes.
The 30-year-old has been impressive at the Japanese Top League side, making a try-scoring debut and helping the club to the play-offs.
Mapimpi is a major boost for the Sharks outfit, who already boast a formidable backline with the likes of Springboks Sibusiso Nkosi, Lukhanyo Am and Curwin Bosch.
“Mapimpi has been amazing on and off the field,” Everitt told reporters in virtual media briefing.
“Obviously he has been good from a conditioning point of view, but the fact is he hasn’t played or train much, so it was good for him to get a full week of training in preparation for his return hopefully in two weeks’ time,”
The coach explained that the Sharks have a bye next week due to the Springboks alignment camp and on his return, he will be up for selection.
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When quizzed about the impact of playing in Japan, Everitt revealed that Mapimpi’s time in Asia has benefited the star tremendously.
The Springbok was able to play and train with some world-class talent, including All Blacks star TJ Perenara.
“He enjoyed the experience in Japan, especially having different coaches and learning different things,” Everitt said.
“He is a guy that likes to learn every day when he comes to training and work. Thus, the experience was very enriching for him.
“Think playing with the likes of TJ Perenara and different coaching staff has thought him a lot. He has a couple of good ideas and has been sharing a lot of information with us,”
The Sharks host the Stormers on Saturday at Kings Park in Durban.
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