Sharks need a new half-back duo for URC homecoming against Ulster
United Rugby Championship
Grant Williams returns to lead the Sharks’ attack at Kings Park as they seek their first URC win after a challenging tour. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
The Sharks host Ulster on Saturday in their first home game of the United Rugby Championship, and the return of Springbok scrumhalf Grant Williams will be a welcome boost.
The Sharks struggled with game management on their recent tour, losing two and drawing one. While the forwards performed well in the set pieces, the breakdowns afterwards exposed issues in attack.
Supporters have been frustrated by the time it takes Jaden Hendrikse to distribute the ball to the backs, with praise going to substitute scrumhalf Ross Braude during the 31-5 loss to Leinster.
Braude, a Bloemfontein product of Grey College and a Canadian international after playing with the Toronto Arrows, impressed with his slick cameo in Dublin. With Williams expected to start at Kings Park on Saturday, his quick distribution will complement Braude’s style.
Coach John Plumtree needs to energise his game managers, and shifting from the slower Hendrikse to the lightning combination of Williams and Braude would be a step in the right direction.
At flyhalf, Plumtree must start Siya Masuku. In Dublin, 21-year-old Jean Smith looked promising in defence but was hesitant in game direction at URC level.
While Jordan Hendrikse is yet to return from injury, Masuku, the hero of the Sharks’ Challenge Cup final victory over Gloucester, should start in Durban. Having played off the bench in Dublin last week on his comeback from injury, he will now lead the attack alongside Williams.
This halfback combination will add pace and creativity to feed returning centre Andre Esterhuizen. Joining Esterhuizen in the Sharks’ must-win clash is Springbok prop Ox Nche.
The Sharks’ set-piece has been a revelation in their three URC matches so far, with Simphiwe Matanziwa, hooker Fez Mbatha, and veteran Ruan Dreyer impressing. Nche’s return will further strengthen the pack.
Springbok legend Eben Etzebeth may also return from paternal leave to join Siya Kolisi, but the Sharks must pull themselves together regardless after a winless tour.