JP Pietersen is looking to the horizon with the intriguing selection of Zekhethelo Siyaya as flyhalf, aiming to groom the youthful talent for future triumphs. This strategic move comes as the Sharks prepare to face Benetton in Durban, signalling a shift in roles for the 18-year-old prodigy.
Previously dazzling audiences as a fullback during his debut tour, where he faced teams like the Ospreys and Edinburgh, Siyaya showcased his prowess, prompting Pietersen to explore his potential in a new position. "We're planning ahead, planning for future," Pietersen shared, highlighting the transition necessitated by Jean Smith's departure. "It's good if you can play more than one position," he added, noting Siyaya's high school days at Westville where he first played as a flyhalf.
"We just want to see what he's got at 10."
The Sharks' recent seasons have been plagued by injuries, disrupting team cohesion and consistency. "If you don't have players available, you don't build cohesion, you don't build consistency," Pietersen lamented, reflecting on a challenging Vodacom URC campaign that saw the star-studded squad miss out on the playoffs.
Despite these setbacks, the silver lining according to Pietersen has been the emergence of young talents like Siyaya and Luan Giliomee, who seized their opportunities amidst adversity. "But it also shows that other guys didn’t give up. They’ve taken their opportunities," he praised.
Looking ahead to the match against Benetton, Pietersen anticipates a tough contest. He respects the Italian side's strengths, particularly their set-piece prowess and strategic kicking game. "Benetton's a strong side," he acknowledged. "They've got a good set-piece and a lot of Italian internationals in there. They've got a good midfield and a good kicking game."
The Sharks' strategy will also have to account for Benetton's tactical use of high balls and contestables, a challenge further compounded by the insider knowledge of Rayno Smith, a former Sharks tactician now with Benetton. As the teams prepare to clash, all eyes will be on Siyaya, whose performance could dictate the future trajectory of his career and potentially, the fortunes of the Sharks.
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JP Pietersen is looking to the horizon with the intriguing selection of Zekhethelo Siyaya as flyhalf, aiming to groom the youthful talent for future triumphs. This strategic move comes as the Sharks prepare to face Benetton in Durban, signalling a shift in roles for the 18-year-old prodigy.
Previously dazzling audiences as a fullback during his debut tour, where he faced teams like the Ospreys and Edinburgh, Siyaya showcased his prowess, prompting Pietersen to explore his potential in a new position. "We're planning ahead, planning for future," Pietersen shared, highlighting the transition necessitated by Jean Smith's departure. "It's good if you can play more than one position," he added, noting Siyaya's high school days at Westville where he first played as a flyhalf.
"We just want to see what he's got at 10."
The Sharks' recent seasons have been plagued by injuries, disrupting team cohesion and consistency. "If you don't have players available, you don't build cohesion, you don't build consistency," Pietersen lamented, reflecting on a challenging Vodacom URC campaign that saw the star-studded squad miss out on the playoffs.
Despite these setbacks, the silver lining according to Pietersen has been the emergence of young talents like Siyaya and Luan Giliomee, who seized their opportunities amidst adversity. "But it also shows that other guys didn’t give up. They’ve taken their opportunities," he praised.
Looking ahead to the match against Benetton, Pietersen anticipates a tough contest. He respects the Italian side's strengths, particularly their set-piece prowess and strategic kicking game. "Benetton's a strong side," he acknowledged. "They've got a good set-piece and a lot of Italian internationals in there. They've got a good midfield and a good kicking game."
The Sharks' strategy will also have to account for Benetton's tactical use of high balls and contestables, a challenge further compounded by the insider knowledge of Rayno Smith, a former Sharks tactician now with Benetton. As the teams prepare to clash, all eyes will be on Siyaya, whose performance could dictate the future trajectory of his career and potentially, the fortunes of the Sharks.
**Team Line-Up:** Siyaya at 10 for Sharks.