Backing youngsters should be considered the norm, not a bold move
OPINION: Sharks coach JP Pietersen, revealing that emerging young talent would be played in big games, signified a laudable approach that should be the norm rather than labelled as “bold”, writes Wynona Louw.
Speaking at a media roundtable earlier in March, Pietersen said that they would blood youngsters to see if they can cut it at United Rugby Championship level, instead of just giving them playing time in lower-stakes games.
It was a share that was described as a “bold new approach” by some.
And so far, Pietersen’s announcement hasn’t been all talk.
In Round 13 of the URC, the Sharks unleashed Luan Giliomee, a 19-year-old product of Ceres.
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His promotion to the starting team for the crucial game against Munster lent weight to the former Springbok winger’s utterances, especially considering the importance of every single game the Sharks prepare for as they hope to strengthen their somewhat slim chances of making the top eight.
Unfortunately, the promising back was forced off during the Sharks’ 21-15 win over Cardiff in Round 14, adding to the Durbanites’ backline-injury headache.
There can never be a good time for injury, but given the quality of Giliomee’s breakout performance one week earlier – during which he produced a try and a couple of assists – the setback feels particularly vicious.
Then there’s also Jaco Williams, who the Sharks first backed at fullback in a fixture against the Bulls in February.
Heading up to that game, the 20-year-old had only featured on the wing in his previous five matches for the Sharks.
During the Junior Boks’ victorious World Rugby Under-20 Championship last year, he also occupied the wide channels.
Again, the backing was there from the Sharks. And it’s that attitude and support to their juniors that will serve them well in future.
The unrivaled conveyor belt of talent coming from schools level puts South African teams in an extremely enviable position.
South African schools rugby can confidently be considered the best in the world.
The level of competitiveness and professionalism players are exposed to before they even have to worry about finals exams is next level. The schools system itself is a pathway.
From a national perspective, Rassie Erasmus and Co getting talented young players involved in the Springbok alignment camp is also a testament to the abilities among juniors.
Junior World Championship-winners Riley Norton, Cheswill Jooste, and Siphosethu Mnebelele all got invited, while two players from the 2025 SA Under-18 squad, Kai Pratt and Markus Muller, also featured in the group.
Sure, being called up to those planning sessions doesn’t guarantee selection, but it does show that they’re on the radar, even if only with an eye on the future.
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The point is, if any country should feel confident in using their juniors in the senior ranks in big matches, it’s the South African sides.
It’s common to see younger players getting a chance in the URC and other major competitions when there’s not much pressure or the stakes aren’t too high.
What’s not as common is seeing them get the green light or making their debut or featuring strongly in do-or-die, all-or-nothing games. And that’s even more reason for credit to be sent Pietersen’s way.
Understandably, there can be a fear of overwhelming a player or putting them in high-pressure situations too soon. But they will eventually meet that pressure regardless, whether it’s their second or tenth senior game.
If there’s everything to play for, there will always be pressure. And it’s not like junior international competitions don’t come with their own mountains of pressure.
So, be it the Sharks or the Boks, the sentiment remains the same. If you’re good enough, you’re old enough.
