Winkgate returns: Will Munster seek revenge in Durban showdown?
Jordan Hendrikse expects Munster’s return to Durban this weekend to come with an edge and says there’s no doubt memories of last season’s controversial clash still linger.
The Sharks edged that dramatic quarterfinal in a historic penalty shootout.
Still, it was Jaden Hendrikse who stole the headlines after TV cameras caught him winking at Munster flyhalf Jack Crowley during a stoppage. The moment – quickly dubbed “Winkgate” – sparked outrage among Irish fans, who accused the Springbok scrumhalf of gamesmanship.
Crowley held his nerve to slot his kick, but it wasn’t enough. A miss from Rory Scannell earlier in the shootout proved costly before Sharks replacement Bradley Davids stepped up to seal a 6-4 victory.
“That was South African rugby’s first penalty shootout – it was unique to be part of,” Hendrikse said. “We know this will be a personal return to Durban for Munster.”
While the narrative around the incident continues to follow the fixture, Hendrikse insists the Sharks won’t be drawn into the noise.
“For us, the main thing is the game. Jaden will be fine if he’s targeted. I know my brother, and that cramp was genuine,” he said.
“There was a lot said about the wink, so yes, it may be personal for Munster. But for us, it’s about the result. This is a vital home game, and we can’t afford any slip-ups.”
*Article continues below…
That urgency is real. After back-to-back losses on the Highveld halted their momentum, the Sharks now find themselves in a must-win situation in the race for a Top Eight finish.
“With six games to go, there’s no room for error,” Hendrikse said. “We need to get back to being consistent. We were consistent against the Stormers, but not consistent against the Lions and Bulls.”
“Now it’s about taking our opportunities when they come and just being more clinical. There will be more pressure, but if we execute our plan and what we want to achieve, then there shouldn’t be a problem.”
With crucial home fixtures against Munster and Cardiff up next before a demanding overseas stretch, the Sharks know their season could hinge on what happens in Durban and whether they can keep emotion out of a clash that’s anything but ordinary.
NEW IN THE APP: Official World Rugby Rankings hub! Compare team rankings side-by-side, with data going back 20 years.
Download the RugbyPass app on the App Store (iOS) and Google Play (Android) now!
