Sharks XV coach Mike Vowles believes the big victory over the Bulls has underlined the quality of young talent pushing for places in the URC squad. Picture: Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix
The Sharks XV may have been regarded as a development side, but they gave a compelling demonstration of the talent coming through the Durban franchise with a thrilling 53-22 victory over the Bulls XV at Kings Park on Friday night.
The emphatic bonus-point win kept the Sharks XV in contention for a place in the Currie Cup semi-finals. Still, perhaps more importantly, it provided further evidence that there are several young players capable of pushing for places in the senior squad preparing for the United Rugby Championship under head coach JP Pietersen.
Sharks XV coach Mike Vowles has been tasked by Pietersen with identifying and developing players who can make the step up to the senior squad, and his young charges gave him plenty to be pleased about in their final pool match.
Flanker Tino Mavesere was the outstanding performer, scoring four tries in a dominant display, while captain Ross Braude and hooker Jacques Marais both crossed twice as the Sharks XV produced some exhilarating attacking rugby.
