The Sharks rugby team is set to embark on a new journey under head coach JP Pietersen as they take on the Ospreys in their opening United Rugby Championship match at Kings Park on Saturday. Co-captain Nick Hatton will lead the side in the absence of Springbok centre Andre Esterhuizen, who is currently in Australia with the national team. Hatton, a 23-year-old No 8, is one of three co-captains appointed to support Esterhuizen, alongside Emile van Heerden and Vincent Tshituka.
The Sharks have undergone significant changes since Pietersen took over from John Plumtree last year, when the team was languishing in 14th place with just one win from their opening six matches. Under Pietersen's guidance, the Sharks showed improvement, climbing to 10th place and missing the playoffs but laying the foundations for a better season. The team's new identity is being shaped on and off the field, with a rebranding as the Sharks Rugby Club and an emphasis on strengthening a high-performance culture built around discipline, accountability, and respect.
Hatton believes the team's extensive pre-season has allowed them to lay the groundwork for their new culture. The squad has been challenged by coaches to develop their on-field performance, and players have been encouraged to challenge each other off the field. The pre-season has also seen the arrival of new players, including those from the Currie Cup, which Hatton says has created excitement within the team.
As one of the leaders of the new-look Sharks, Hatton knows he has a responsibility to ensure that the team's standards are maintained throughout the demanding campaign. He stressed the importance of a strong leadership group and a cohesive squad, which he believes will be crucial in competing in the URC and the EPCR Challenge Cup.
The Sharks' slow start last season ultimately proved costly, despite their strong finish, and Hatton emphasized the need to avoid a repeat. He highlighted the importance of competition for places and building a strong squad that can compete consistently. The team's goal is to perform to a Sharks standard and implement their new identity on the field.
For Hatton, the opportunity to begin the season at home against the Ospreys makes Saturday particularly significant. The team has worked hard during the pre-season, and Hatton is excited to play in front of their fans. He noted that all teams in the URC want to start well, and the first few games are crucial in setting the tone for the season.
The Sharks' new-look squad has been assembled with the aim of achieving consistency and competing at a high level. With a strong pre-season behind them, Hatton and his teammates are ready to take on the Ospreys and make a statement in the URC. The team's progress will be closely watched, as they seek to establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the competition.
Key points
- Nick Hatton to lead Sharks against Ospreys in United Rugby Championship
- Sharks Rugby Club undergoes rebranding and cultural changes under coach JP Pietersen
- Team aims to establish consistent identity and compete at high level in URC
