Sharks boss JP Pietersen full of praise for Zekhethelo Siyaya after starring at flyhalf

All eyes were on the 18-year-old when he ran out with ten on his back in Durban. But any doubts were quickly cast aside as Siyaya went on some telling runs - earning two linebreaks from his six carries - and made good decisions with ball in hand.

Siyaya was also handed the kicking duties and while he failed to impress off the tee, all was forgiven as the Sharks ran in eight tries in the 46-7 win.

The rising star is electric on his feet and has already beaten 29 defenders in his three URC outings.

"It seems like he's been there for ages, and he's only 18 years old," said Pietersen after the match.

"He had a good couple of moments, but man, I'm so happy for that kid to show how he expressed and backed himself.

"He's a young man who just loves the Sharks, and it's clear to see. His love for the union filters through to the whole team.

"And he gives everything, that's the beauty of it in the way he plays. He answered my questions at No.10 that he can do the job in that position."

Pietersen also highlighted the contribution of 2024 U20 World Rugby Championship winner Litelihle Bester, who made his URC debut on the wing. The 23-year-old came on the park after Springbok Makazole Mapimpi was concussed after a high tackle.

Bester showed his finishing skills with an acrobatic try in the corner in the second half.

"It's beautiful to see how a guy making his debut and replacing a Sharks centurion shows so much fight, excitement and hunger," added Pietersen.

"He's been working hard behind the scenes, which no one has seen, and he's had a few injury setbacks.

"But he just showed today [Saturday] by finishing off a try like that in the corner - it is beautiful. I know where he comes from and the hard work he put in, and to give him an opportunity and him taking it with both hands is beautiful to see. It just shows what it means to the kid."

The Sharks host URC bottom-dwellers Zebre in their final match of the season next Saturday.

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