Etzebeth: 'Incredible' Siya isn't a joke

05/22/2024 02:40 AM

Eben Etzebeth has extolled the special qualities of Siya Masuku, as the Sharks stand on the cusp of European cup history thanks to the flyhalf's standout performances.

Masuku has taken a long road to the bright lights of Durban's fabled arena, but the 27-year-old has not hesitated when given the opportunity to make a splash at the Sharks.

He kicked 22 points including the match-winning conversion to book the Sharks a maiden appearance in the Challenge Cup final on Friday, and is riding the wave of three successive man-of-the-match performances – four in his last five matches.

Masuku's recent heroics have reportedly earned him an invitation to the next Springbok alignment camp, and speaking in a wide-ranging interview with Fudge Mabeta on SuperSport, Etzebeth hailed the former Cheetahs playmaker's efforts.

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"Yeah, he's been incredible. I was actually on another podcast the other day and I mentioned Siya and I just said Siya, and I think some of the people thought I was thinking about Siya Kolisi," the Bok and Sharks enforcer said.

"And I corrected them by saying Siya Masuku and I got a lot of laughing faces.

"They were probably thinking I was joking, but hopefully the people will start realising now what a special player he is.

"He puts his body on the line, he's a warrior, and I mean, that's what you want in a 10.

"You want a guy who can take you forward, good kicking game, good at goal kicking… he's not scared, he's just been incredible."

Eben Etzebeth wants everyone to know how special Siya Masuku is ahead of the #ChallengeCupRugby final pic.twitter.com/CrfxGPilNK

— SuperSport Rugby (@SSRugby) May 20, 2024

Photo: Patrick Khachfe/Getty Images

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