Sharks stalwart James Venter looking to finish strong in URC

Hailing from Port Shepstone on the Kwa-Zulu Natal South Coast, the province has always been special for Venter. The Glenwood High old boy has been a part of the Sharks' renewed success, playing a meaningful role in their successful Challenge Cup and Currie Cup campaigns of 2024. 

But all good things come to an end, and he will leave for pastures new in Gloucester, England, when the Sharks finish their season.

The Durban franchise is hosting former United Rugby Championship winners Munster in the URC quarterfinals next Saturday. It could be Venter's final match for his beloved Sharks, but the 63-cap veteran is eager to extend his stay as long as possible.

"I'm really excited to finish strong, the squad we have has really come together nicely and the team chemistry makes for a strong connection," the 28-year-old told the Sharks' website.

"I'm really excited about the next couple of games leading up to the final and I'll be cherishing every minute on the park now and the memories we make.

"Rugby is such an awesome sport that gives you opportunities to travel the world. Rugby got me to Joburg to play a few seasons at the Emirates Lions, before playing for the childhood club that I grew up watching and supporting."

Looking to the future, Venter is excited to see what the English Premiership is like.

"I'll also be experiencing a different type of rugby as well," he continued.

"Playing Super Rugby demanded a certain kind of rugby IQ and adapting to that, to the URC and soon in the English Premiership which has its own brand of exciting rugby. So I'm really excited to develop and experience everything that rugby can offer."

"I'm sure the English culture will be completely different to what we experience in South Africa which will take some adjusting, but that helps you develop your own independence and see what's out there in the world."

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