Brad under Jake's wing
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Although he may not have been heavily involved with the Shark's Super Rugby campaign Jacques Botes is feeling Jake White's influence through Currie Cup coach Brad Macleod-Henderson.
Being Director of Rugby at the Sharks, White is still heavily involved with all of the structures, this includes the defending Currie Cup champions.
"Since the start of Super Rugby, Jake has brought a lot of attention to detail to the Sharks game plan," Botes told MyPlayers.
"We have also done more when it comes to match analysis – Jake's a very astute coach.
"Under the mentorship of Jake and [consultant] Brendan Venter, head coach Brad Macleod-Henderson has learned a lot and is making a name for himself this year.
"It's an exciting season for players and coaches."
The Sharks clearly have incredible resources and structure in Durban, but Botes goes on to state that it is the blend of experience and youth in this year's Currie Cup team that has kept them undefeated through two rounds.
"It's definitely a young and exciting squad overall," the veteran flank added.
"There's some great talent in the team.
"We can also depend on experienced guys like Odwa Ndungane, Tonderai Chavhanga, Matt Stevens and Marco Wentzel, who all boast international experience.
With a wealth of experienced around him in the likes of Ndungane (103 Super Rugby caps and 82 caps for the Sharks at Currie Cup), Botes (who broke the record for the most number of Currie Cup appearances when he played in his 143rd match) and Wentzel (who has played for 13 different teams in South Africa, Italy and England) the Sharks captain, Lubabalo Mtembu, is in good hands.
"Tera [Lubabalo Mtembu] has made an excellent step-up this season," Botes continued.
"He took his opportunities during Super Rugby, so the call to make him captain is an exciting one.
"He's doing well so far, and has a few experienced players around him to help him with the leadership responsibilities."
The Sharks next face the Cheetahs in Durban where they will hoping to make it three form three to keep pressure on the Golden Lions and Western Province – both of whom are unbeaten.
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