Aside from reinforcing the Sharks pack, Eben Etzebeth will fast-track the development of Durban’s best junior talent, according to Sharks coach Etienne Fynn.
The 97-capped Bok lock will join up with the Sharks in July from Toulon and has been signed on a long-term contract until 2027.
Etzebeth has recently butted heads with Bakkies Botha after the former SA hardman criticised his successor for only performing at his best in the green-and-gold jersey.
But Fynn, an ex-Bok himself, reckons that rubbing shoulders with Eben at the Shark Tank will do wonders for the next generation of SA second-row sluggers.
“Eben is a world-respected World Cup-winning Bok who has played senior rugby for well over a decade and the younger players at the Sharks can only learn from him and become better rugby players, so it is a massive opportunity for them and especially for the young locks,” he said.
“These seasoned Springboks of ours bring a huge amount of detailed focus in preparation. Young players soak up so much whether it is about studying the opposition or their own personal preparation. It is a great opportunity for them.”
