The following from News 24:-
"Former Sharks captain Gary Teichmann has hit out at the franchise’s signing of Waratahs loose forward Jacques Potgieter.
READ: Sharks get out the cheque book - AGAIN!
The 29-year-old was signed on a two-year deal inDURBAN on Wednesday, and will join the Sharks at the start of the 2016 Super Rugby season. In an exclusive interview with Sport24, Teichmann voiced his disapproval at the capture of the three-Test Springbok, saying that the Sharks should instead look to nurture young, local talent in their bid to improve on what has been a disastrous season so far.
“I would contradict myself if I said it was a great addition, because I believe we should be focusing on the youth. I know for a fact that there are quality youngsters coming through the ranks,” Teichmann said in the interview. “One such example is 19-year-old Daniel du Preez. I’m not suggesting Potgieter is a bad player, but it’sTIME for the Sharks to rebuild and start bringing quality youth products through.
“Young players should be givenMORE opportunities. The youth also have the positive effect of keeping senior players on their toes. If there is no quality youth coming through, then your senior players are not put under any real pressure.”
I support the signing of Jacques Potgieter on the basis that he is a massive improvement on Alberts. However, I must admit that Teichman is correct about the issue of bringing younger players into the Shark's squad and giving them playing opportunities - allowing them to settle into the squad. I have written similar comments on the Sharks situation recently.
The present scenario of contracting players - especially geriatrics - is the wrong way to go and should be avoided at all costs.
