Teich hails ‘reliable’ Hatton

Hatton has featured in all six of the Sharks’ matches, including five starts at No 8, helping them win five and return unbeaten from a three-match overseas tour.

Teichmann, who also attended Hilton College in the KZN Midlands, has known the 23-year-old’s family for years and believes an extended run in the team has brought out the best in him.

“You know what you’re going to get from Nick week in and week out. That’s always critical to a team. Some players are just reliable, and he is one of them,” Teichmann told IOL Sport.

“Back in our day, we had players like Wayne Fyvie and Andrew Blakeway. Nick’s certainly that kind of player.

“What’s been good for Nick is that he’s had run of games in a row, which has given him a lot of confidence. He’s always been a good leader, even from his school days.”

Teichmann also likened Hatton to former Sharks stalwart Jacques Botes, who was renowned for his work rate and commitment.

“He’s one of those guys who just gives it everything for the whole 80 minutes.”

JP: I wanted to bring back the fight

Teichmann believes coach JP Pietersen deserves considerable credit for restoring the team-first culture that was a hallmark of the Sharks during his own playing days.

“JP played nearly 200 games for the Sharks and has spent most of his adult life at Kings Park. He’s managed to get the guys to move towards that old Sharks culture of the team first, ahead of the individual’s ambitions.

“I think he has the ability, as a person, to bring them together.”

FULL STORY

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— SA Rugby magazine (@SARugbymag) November 3, 2026

Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images