‘Honest conversations’: Sharks leaders rally in rebound bid
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The Sharks are desperate to turn their fortunes around, and one of the leaders in that regard is André Esterhuizen.
The Springbok centre is set to earn his 100th cap for the franchise and will be determined to help secure a much-needed win when they host Saracens in their Champions Cup Round Two clash at Kings Park.
It would be a timely boost for a side still reeling from a heavy 19-56 defeat to six-time champions Toulouse in last week’s opener in France.
Adding to the significance of this weekend’s fixture is the announcement that franchise legend JP Pietersen has taken over as interim coach, making it his first match at the helm.
The return of Esterhuizen, along with fellow Springboks Ox Nché, Bongi Mbonambi, Siya Kolisi, Grant Williams and Ethan Hooker, should provide a major lift for the Durban-based side following their short break after the November Nations Series.
“A lot has happened while we were away,” Esterhuizen said.
“But everyone is focused on the same task – getting us back to where we should be. This weekend’s game is a big one, and that’s all we’re looking at.
“Whatever happens, we know we need to play rugby to the best of our ability.”
He added: “We’ve had honest conversations about the responsibility we need to take as players. Now that we’re all back, our full focus is on turning things around and building momentum.”
Having spent several seasons in the English Premiership with Harlequins, Esterhuizen knows exactly what to expect from the Saracens.
The Londoners made a statement in Round One with a commanding 47-10 victory over Clermont.
“They are a great side, and they showed their form against Clermont. I’ve played them a few times in the past, and they are always tough to beat. They have a strong set-piece, their attack has evolved, and they are very structured.”
Another defeat for the Sharks would dent their Champions Cup play-off hopes, while there are also challenging United Rugby Championship matches against the Bulls and Lions on the cards.
“We’ve all been in situations where our backs are against the wall, but we’re not looking at it that way,” he said.
“We see it as our next game. We’ve experienced pressure before, and that could help us heading into this match against the Saracens.
“We’ve had two good days of training. It has been very hot in Durban, but the boys have worked hard. This is a tough Champions Cup fixture, and we want to deliver a team performance as we have in the past. We haven’t been up to scratch this season.
“This is an opportunity to see our game evolve and improve. Each week, we are motivated to play well, and we want the fans to come back and watch us. That is the goal of any rugby team.”
Esterhuizen has emerged as one of the most effective hybrid players under Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus.
While capable of slotting in at flank in emergencies for the national side, he remains clear about where he feels most at home.
“I’m a centre. I’ve always been a centre – that’s my position. I’m just covering flank if we get a card or an injury.”
