AUDIO: Sharks have cover for Euro exodus
LISTEN as Springbok centre Lukhanyo Am talks about the Sharks’ victorious start to the season and the news of the impending European exodus from Durban.
The Sharks confirmed this week that Bok hooker Armand van der Merwe and flyhalf Robert du Preez (junior) will join Sale Sharks in England at the conclusion of this year’s Super Rugby tournament.
In a statement, the Sharks said the announcement has been made early to allow both these players the opportunity to “concentrate on the Sharks Super Rugby campaign”.
The news – which is said to be the start of a mass exodus by South African players later this year – comes on the back of a superb start by the Sharks.
They kicked off their campaign with a 45-10 win over the Sunwolves in Singapore and followed that up with a 26-7 victory over the Blues – leaving at the top of the standings with a full-house 10 points after the opening fortnight.
Am said they will miss the Bok duo when they depart for England later this year.
“Akker [van der Merwe] is a quality player,” the Bok midfielder said, adding: “He is one of the key players in the team.
“Rob [du Preez] is the general in the team, taking control of the plays.”
Am said these departures are part of rugby, adding that they are fortunate enough to have a big squad.
“We have some great youngsters and talent in the group,” he told a media scrum in Durban.
“We will miss the guys, but there will be somebody who will pitch up and perform.”
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Should the Sharks be worried about losing too many key players overseas?
Am said there is great energy in the team after the opening fortnight.
“We could not have asked for a better start,” he said, adding: ” It is a huge confidence boost heading into the [Round Three] game with the Stormers [in Durban this coming Saturday].”
He spoke of the Stormers’ Springbok-laden pack and the physicality they will bring.
“It is a physical game and we need to pitch up in that regard.”
@rugby365com
