Sharks coach John Plumtree has shared insights on the challenges posed by Eben Etzebeth’s injury and managing the obligations of Springbok players.
The Sharks community is facing disappointment as Springbok standout Eben Etzebeth will be sidelined following knee surgery.
John Plumtree, the Sharks’ head coach, acknowledged the timing of Etzebeth’s injury as particularly unfortunate, given the team’s current struggle at the lower end of the United Rugby Championship rankings.
ETZEBETH AND SHARKS’ INJURY WOES
The absence of Etzebeth is a significant hurdle for the Sharks, who are entering a demanding series of games, highlighted by an important derby against the Stormers. On a brighter note, Bongi Mbonambi is on the verge of making a comeback from his injury.
“It’s a lengthy season, and the series of injuries has felt like a handicap,” Plumtree remarked. “Eben Etzebeth had just begun playing again before needing knee surgery, so he’ll be out for a few more weeks.”
MANAGING SPRINGBOK REQUIREMENTS
In addition to handling Etzebeth’s injury, Plumtree is faced with orchestrating the compulsory rest periods for the Springbok players, although he hesitated to specify which players would be rested next, except for confirming that captain Lukhanyo Am will play this weekend.
“It’s far from ideal, yet we grasp its significance,” Plumtree stated. “These players are facing a long year ahead with both northern and southern hemisphere rugby commitments, which is quite demanding.”
CUSHIONING THE IMPACT OF ETZEBETH’S ABSENCE
To enhance the excitement around their pivotal match against the Stormers, the Sharks will be hosting a ‘Sharks Fest.’
The situation looks slightly more hopeful for the Sharks, as the Stormers are expected to rest some of their key Springbok players, including Deon Fourie, Manie Libbok, and Damian Willemse.
