The Sharks have cleared up speculation about Junior Boks flank Batho Hlekani’s immediate future.
During Wednesday’s press conference ahead of the Currie Cup clash with Griquas in Kimberley, Sharks general manager Novashni Chetty confirmed that the 20-year-old, who has signed for the Lions, would not be granted an early release and will remain in Durban until his contract ends on 31 December.
Hlekani has been handed his first Currie Cup start of the campaign after spending two weeks training with the Springboks.
Asked what he liked about the youngster, Sharks coach JP Pietersen was brief: “Momentum and gain line.”
Hlekani’s inclusion is one of several changes to the side that lost 7-5 to the Cheetahs in Clermont, Durban, last weekend.
In the pack, Bryce Calvert returns at hooker, Deon Slabbert replaces Corne Rahl at lock and Matt Romao shifts to No 8.
Among the backs, Ceano Everson comes in at scrumhalf for Bradley Davids, Paschal Ekeji takes over from Yaw Penxe on the left wing and Blitzboks speedster Christie Grobbelaar replaces Phikolomzi Sobahle on the right.
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“Corne hurt his ankle and with the short turnaround to Friday, he couldn’t train this week. Yaw has a knee niggle, so he’s also unavailable,” Pietersen explained.
“Paschal has been with us three to four weeks now, slotted in well and trained with both the Currie Cup and URC groups. He had a crack at the NFL – it’s tough to make it there – but now he’s giving rugby a full go.
“He’s tall, fast, can jump high and he’s worked hard for this opportunity. We’re excited to see what he can bring.”
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Pietersen said the improved showing against the Cheetahs was encouraging, but he knows Friday will be a big test.
“Griquas have been together for close to a year now, so their cohesion will always be a challenge, especially in tight games,” he said. “We’re stepping in the right direction and we’ll focus on improving day by day.
“Kimberley is always unique, but conditions won’t be an excuse – if it’s wet, you change your tactics; if it’s dry, you play accordingly.”
Captain Nick Hatton said the Sharks were eager to turn progress into their first win of the season.
“Last week’s performance, even though we didn’t win, was a step in the right direction. We did a lot right, and there’s a lot of excitement and positivity in the group.
“We’re all making the most of the game time we’re getting, and we want to build on that on Friday.”
Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images
