Ex-teammate reveals JP's traits that could lead Sharks to silverware
INTERVIEW: Former Springbok centre Waylon Murray is confident that JP Pietersen’s appointment as head coach of the Sharks will steer the union on the right trajectory.
On Wednesday, the Sharks confirmed that Pietersen would take over with immediate effect, following a two-month interim coaching stint.
During his spell as caretaker, Pietersen injected fresh impetus at the Durban franchise and led them to five victories and two losses in all competitions.
Supporters of the club have warmly received the upturn in fortunes, and it’s a revival that’s got the team back to its best, according to Murray.
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“It’s wonderful to see an ex-teammate galvanise and be the catalyst for a lot of the good movement the Sharks have had in the past months,” he told Rugby365.
“The team has had some setbacks throughout the season, but to see the team culture and performances improve is a testament to JP’s leadership.
“He’s put systems in place and got the team back on track.”
Murray shared the field on several occasions with Pietersen during his playing days at both the Sharks and Springboks.
He revealed the type of character he was as a player and some of the traits that could make him a successful coach.
“JP was action-oriented, and that made him an excellent rugby player,” he shared.
“He always backed his actions on the field, and he’s a man who leads with actions rather than words, and I can see he’s applying that to coaching.
“It’s a difficult job being the head coach of a professional team, but how the players have responded over the past months has to do with him, and it shows he’s always had leadership qualities.”
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The fact that Pietersen spent many years in Durban and was part of a golden generation at the Sharks makes it an even better acquisition, added Murray.
“His history with the club puts him in a unique position because of what he’s given to the Sharks community as a player.
“He understands the culture and traditions of the club. He also understands the people of Durban and KZN, and that will help him in terms of what plans to do. It’s the perfect match.”
The Sharks currently sit in ninth place on the URC log after 10 matches played. They have eight fixtures remaining and are vying for a top-eight finish to secure a play-off spot.
From his assessment, Murray expects them to finish the season strong, and would like to see his former side go all the way and win its maiden URC title.
“It’s hard when you’re looking in from the outside because I’m not actively engaged with the team and what they’ve been through over the past 12 months.
“But as a former player, I want to see them succeed and possibly win the competition even though it’s incredibly difficult.
“They will have to win a lot of games and build momentum, which I think they can. I’d just love to see them win the whole thing.”
Pietersen will take charge of the Sharks for the first time as permanent head coach on Saturday against the Lions at Ellis Park.
