JP Pietersen expresses support for the new attack coach, Scott Matty, believing he can unlock the huge potential in the Sharks' defensive line before the United Rugby Championship (URC) season begins.
JP Pietersen expresses support for the new attack coach, Scott Matty, believing he can unlock the huge potential in the Sharks' defensive line before the United Rugby Championship (URC) season begins.
Pietersen believes that Scott Matty is the right specialist to implement a 'bold and exciting' style in the Sharks' defensive line, which is rich in young talent. Matty joined the Sharks from Edinburgh Rugby, but he previously achieved success in coaching in the USA. While working with Griquas from 2019 to 2020, he earned the nickname 'The Giant Killer' due to victories over Super Rugby teams.
Pietersen also positively evaluates Matty's international experience as a dynamic midfielder. Before joining the Sharks and Bulls, Matty played for Sale Sharks and Leeds Carnegie. Pietersen noted that Matty has adapted well, saying that 'it feels like he has been here for two or three years.' He added that Matty seems to have 'come home,' recalling how they played together in the Currie Cup in 2006 under Dick Muir's leadership.
Pietersen reported that Matty took over as attack coach after Dave Williams moved to the role of general manager, and that he integrated easily into the team. According to Pietersen, the players like him because he possesses the energy and aura that all attack coaches have.
Pietersen emphasized that Matty's international experience, both as a player and a coach, made him an attractive candidate. He stated the team's desire to think unconventionally in attack, noting that they struggled to win matches in Europe last season. Matty understands how to improve play in such conditions, knowing how European teams operate and how they cope with bad weather.
In Pietersen's opinion, Edinburgh has a good set of skills, being bold and innovative in attack. Matty brought this philosophy to the Sharks, insisting that the team must hold onto the ball longer and challenge the defense. The goal is to be bold and exciting by utilizing the attacking talent of players such as Jurenzo Julius, Zekhethelo Siyaya, Vusi Moyo, and Jaco Williams, encouraging them to move the ball.
Meanwhile, the Sharks XV team announced its squad for the match against Stormers XXIII in the Currie Cup, which will take place on Saturday at 19:00. The starting lineup for Sharks XV includes Luan Gilliomee, Christie Grobbelaar, Marnus Potgieter, Janco Purchase, Lyle Matthews, Tim Swiel, Ross Braude (with captain Thomas Dyer), Danio Botha, Luaan Olivier, Deon Slabbert, Johan Momsen, Simphiwe Ngobese, Bryce Calvert, and Cameron Dawson. Reserves include Liam van Wyk, Phiwayinkosi Kubheka, Lee-Marvin Mazibuko, Hanu Pieterse, Jean-Henri Smit, Juan Loots, Albie Bester, and Khuthi Rasivhaga.
All Blacks legend Ma'a Nonu has moved to Durban and joined the Sharks team as part of a high-performance mentorship program. This initiative aims to accelerate the development of the club's next generation of players.
Nonu arrived at the Sharks after concluding a very successful career with Toulon, where he played 100 matches. The 106 kg centre also played 126 times for the Hurricanes in Super Rugby, as well as multiple times for the Blues and Highlanders.
However, Nonu is best known as an unstoppable midfield powerhouse for the All Blacks. He played 103 matches for the All Blacks between 2003 and 2015, during the team's golden era when they won two consecutive World Cups in 2011 and 2015.
Despite the possibility of occasionally playing on the field, Nonu is joining the Sharks primarily as a mentor and leader. He will work alongside the coaching staff to support player development and strengthen the culture of high performance within the club.
Nonu also seeks to contribute to the development of rugby. He noted that Durban was one of his favourite places during the Super Rugby tournament, and he befriended JP Pietersen, who is a former rival and current head coach of the Sharks.
Sharks CEO Shaun Bryan believes this move reflects the club's commitment to creating an environment where young athletes can learn from the best. Bryan emphasized that opportunities to spend time in an environment like Ma'a's are rare. He added that beyond exceptional on-field achievements, professionalism, leadership qualities, and understanding what it takes to play consistently at the highest level make this opportunity extremely valuable for the club.
Bryan continued that 'the constant exposure of our environment to world-class performers who have achieved sustained success is invaluable.' He also noted that Nonu's presence over the coming months will bring significant benefit to the squad through the mentorship, standards, and rugby knowledge he will share daily.
JP Pietersen echoed these sentiments, stating: 'The best players don't just leave memories; they leave standards. That is what Ma'a brings. Every conversation, every training session, and every interaction is a chance for our players to see what perfection looks like.'
Speaking about his stay in Durban, Ma'a Nonu said that the city and the opportunity to work with the rising talents of the Sharks and JP Pietersen made the decision easy. The 44-year-old athlete stated: 'The Sharks are one of the most iconic rugby clubs in the world, and Durban has always been a special place for me to visit. One of my earliest away games in Super Rugby was held here, and I have kept warm memories of this city and its passionate fans ever since.'
He also expressed deep respect for JP, noting that they competed for many years. Nonu added: 'I look forward to working with him and the team. It is a great opportunity to give back to the game. Working side-by-side with the future stars of our sport excites me, and I am ready to do everything possible to help the club during my stay.'
