Siya Kolisi eyes Loftus showdown with Bulls

The Durban-based outfit face a formidable Bulls side that finished second in the regular season, but the Sharks are one of the few teams Jake White’s men have struggled to beat, both home and away, in this URC campaign. 

READ: Bulls star Cameron Hanekom named URC's Next-Gen Player of the Season

While the Sharks have scraped through recent matches, the Springbok captain believes the drama is part of the attraction.

"We don't know what's going to happen at Loftus, but I thought last week was really exciting, it's the first time I've ever experienced something like that and I thought it was amazing for rugby," declared the competitive Springbok captain. 

The Sharks reached the semifinals in nail-biting fashion, locked at 24-all with Munster after 80 minutes, still deadlocked after extra time, and only separated by a tense penalty shootout.

Kolisi says the team has shown immense growth in tough games like that, where every player has stood up to be counted.

"In previous years, we would've lost that game against Munster, but the growth in the team, and in the squad is clear for all to see."

Looking ahead to Saturday’s clash at Loftus Versfeld, Kolisi says the Sharks aren’t underestimating the challenge. 

He acknowledges the Bulls’ strength at home, but believes staying focused on their own game will be key.

"We are confident, but we are also aware of what the Bulls have done since we last played them. As much as we are aware of their threat, our focus remains on our game," said Kolisi. 

The battle up front is expected to be decisive. Kolisi conceded that the Bulls arguably have the best scrum in the competition and that areas like the lineout and maul will be crucial.

The coach, John Plumtree has the luxury of having plenty of world-cup winning Boks including their captain Eben Etzebeth, Lukhanyo Am, Aphelele Fassi, Andre Esterhuizen, just to name a few. 

Kolisi says the team’s Springbok core has helped guide the younger players through intense moments in the campaign and adds the Sharks’ squad depth and international experience could prove to be decisive.

Kick-off for the all-South African blockbuster at Loftus Versveld is scheduled for 18:15 on Saturday.