Plumtree's recipe to get the best out of Kolisi

SPOTLIGHT: Sharks head coach John Plumtree believes he is getting the best out of Siya Kolisi in the No.8 position.

The Springbok captain, who usually plays in the No.6 jersey, produced a man-of-the-match performance in Saturday’s 39-21 win over Exeter Chiefs.

The 33-year-old scored two of his team’s five tries in that match and he was just devastating with ball in hand.

It was his third start in a row at No.8 for the Sharks and he is set to continue in that role under Plumtree.

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Siya was on FIRE this afternoon 😤

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— Investec Champions Cup (@ChampionsCup) December 7, 2024

“I like Siya at No.8. He gets more ball in his hands and he is such a skilful player,” said Plumtree after the win over Exeter.

“At this stage of his career, he is such an intelligent rugby player and he understands the game really well.

“You want to give him the ball as much as possible, so I like him in that spot.

“I think he is really enjoying it there and now with Vincent [Tshituka] out and James Venter out [due to injuries], Siya’s role becomes massive for us.

“He is playing really well, so it’s good for him.”

After Saturday’s match, Kolisi confirmed that he is enjoying every minute in the No.8 role.

“I’m loving it – that’s where I started playing rugby, at No.8,” he said.

“That’s where coach Rassie [Erasmus] spotted me when I was at school so it’s really good to get back to it.

“I’m getting the ball in my hands more. ’m more involved in the game and I’m enjoying it.”

@rugby365com

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— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) December 8, 2024