Coach Sean Everitt says the Sharks aren’t underestimating the Dragons despite benching Springboks Sikhumbuzo Notshe and Siya Kolisi for the Vodacom United Rugby Championship match at Kings Park on Friday night.
Everitt made five changes to his side from Saturday’s 21-5 loss to Edinburgh, notably putting his trust in a new-look back row of James Venter, Jeandre Labuschagne and Phepsi Buthelezi.
Speaking ahead of Friday’s clash with the Dragons, the Sharks boss was at pains to clarify that Kolisi and Notshe weren’t dropped. “The rotation is premeditated. It’s not because of the consequences of the [Edinburgh] loss,” Everitt said.
“The team did everything in their power to win that game. We won every aspect of that game – from the power game to the metres kicked.
“We just felt that next week is five games in a row, and from my experience, players start to fatigue after game four, so it was a good opportunity to freshen it up after a tough three weeks.
“The Dragons will be a different kettle of fish here in Durban. They’ve flown in four international players this week, so we’re expecting a physical onslaught from them. They mustn’t be underestimated at all.”
Everitt says he is looking to the more experienced Venter to guide rookies Buthelezi and Labuschagne, adding: “I am confident in the back row. James showed again that, when he’s on form, he’s probably one of the best No 6s in South Africa.
“He was called up to the Green and Gold team last year after some really good performances. He’s been outstanding in the Currie Cup and led the side with aplomb. He does bring a bit of experience among the two 23-year-olds, Jeandre and Phepsi.
“Phepsi’s performed well and we felt that we had to give Notshe a string of games to get him back into full fitness because of his long injury layoff.
“It’s another opportunity for Phepsi to continue the form he had before Notshe came back. Jeandre is a good lineout option and has played exceptionally well in URC. It’s great that we have depth in those positions.”
