This could be year of Sharks

HAVING reached two consecutive Super Rugby quarterfinals‚ there is an onus on the Sharks to go one better this season.

Of the finals the Durban outfit have been to – in 1996‚ 2001‚ 2007 and 2012 – they have failed dismally, but showed inventiveness in getting that far.

The Sharks have the defensive resolve and discipline to go far in the tournament, but whether they can keep on cashing the physical cheques they write for themselves remains to be seen.

However‚ they have a young and vibrant squad and their exciting backs will be their focal point.

How coach Robert du Preez uses his namesake son at flyhalf, alongside the considerable competition Curwin Bosch brings to the table, will be crucial.

Robert du Preez jnr may be a Currie Cup winning pivot, who used last year’s final to show his dad how good he is‚ but Bosch is a significantly talented No 10, who knows he belongs at this level.

Bosch also has his Bok caps to show off – and once he sorts out his defensive issues‚ he will cause Du Preez senior some serious selection headaches.

It is important that the coach selects with his head and does not put paternal instincts ahead of the needs of the team.

Garth April is the team’s best fullback, while Lwazi Mvovo is a perfectly serviceable last line, when pressed into service.

The Sharks have their bases covered, and once they marry their defensive fortitude with consistency and a flowing backline‚ they could be a handful.

They were robbed in last year’s quarterfinal against the Lions, while the Hurricanes blew them away the year before.

The Durban franchise also need to forget how badly they choked in the Currie Cup final last year.