JP Pietersen’s growing impact as head coach is driving the Sharks’ resurgence, writes MARK KEOHANE.
Writing for the Sunday Times, Keohane says the Sharks are showing the same physicality, rugby intelligence and mental resolve that defined Pietersen’s playing career.
He recalls how Eddie Jones once described Pietersen as a player with both “functional and emotional rugby intelligence”, adding: “He gets to places, especially on defence, where it could easily be excused if he did not get there.”
That instinct and understanding of the game, Keohane argues, are now evident in Pietersen’s coaching. The Sharks have won four of their last five Vodacom URC matches and are unbeaten in three successive home games, with their latest victory – a 21-15 result against Cardiff – built on composure and control.
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Keohane revisits Pietersen’s defining moment in the 2007 World Cup quarter-final against Fiji, when a crucial cover tackle halted momentum at a key stage of the match. It was a play that spoke to the Springbok wing’s awareness and work rate – traits now shaping the Sharks’ identity.
Under Pietersen, the Sharks have become more resilient. Where they might previously have lost tight contests, they are now finding ways to win, even in difficult conditions against quality opposition.
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Captain André Esterhuizen’s growing presence reflects that shift, while the decision to deploy Bok props Ox Nché and Vincent Koch early in the match against Cardiff paid off with scrum dominance that proved decisive.
For Keohane, this Sharks revival is no coincidence – it is a reflection of a coach imprinting his mindset on a team learning to play with purpose and belief.
Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images
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JP Pietersen’s growing impact as head coach is driving the Sharks’ resurgence, writes @mark_keohane
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