Siya, Manu inspire Tshituka to soldier on

09/14/2024 07:59 AM

Vincent Tshituka is relishing the opportunity to hone his leadership skills alongside Siya Kolisi, in a powerful and dynamic back row with his brother Emmanuel at the Sharks, reports DEVIN HERMANUS.

Speaking in the buildup to leading the Sharks XV against the Vodacom Bulls in the Currie Cup semi-final at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday, Tshituka reflected on Kolisi's return to Durban from Racing 92 and the impact it will have on the team, and his development.

A two-time World Cup-winning Springbok captain, Kolisi brings invaluable experience to the Sharks' ranks, and will be a vital cog for the Durbanites as they navigate the challenges of the Vodacom URC and Champions Cup in 2024-25.

"Having Siya back in the team is massive for the Sharks; he's monumental in South Africa as a whole anywhere he goes, and we're just blessed to have him part of the union," Tshituka said.

"It's a healthy environment right now as a team, and we've got competition in nearly every position. Adding him here with his leadership, there's a lot that I can learn. [Captaincy] is a new role for me as well, and he's the perfect person to learn from, so I'm really excited."

Equally exciting for the 26-year-old Tshituka is the opportunity to pack down with Emmanuel (24), who joined the Sharks from the Lions this season. The Tshitukas were standout performers with the Pride.

Both ball-carriers are known for an explosive blend of physicality and athleticism, and their reunion in KZN has been nothing short of inspirational for Vincent.

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"It's a blessing, as there's not a lot of times in life and your career that you get the opportunity to play with your brother," said Tshituka. "I know a lot of people wished they could have and never got to do so.

“It's inspiring for me, every time I see him next to me on the field.. It brings the home aspect to the family of the Sharks for me as well.

“I already give everything I can when I step on the field for the Sharks, but it's just a little bit more special when he's there with me."

Tshituka is determined to use his new leadership responsibilities as motivation, drawing on his strengths from his breakthrough 2021-22 URC season, where the hulking flanker earned several man-of-the-match awards.

"The reality is I want to get back to my strengths and go back to what I know I can give to the team. The reason why I think I was picked as leader in this team is to be a soldier and to work and put my best foot forward," he said.

"I don't want to be a leader who speaks too much but rather one who leads by action, and that's just the best way I know how to lead."

The Tshitukas – originally from the DRC – reportedly received their South African passports recently, clearing the way for potential Springbok callups.

Vincent's focus, though, is clear: lead by example. "Over the weekend I write on my wrist strap, 'SOLDIER,' and at the end of the day, I am still a soldier, the only difference now is I'm leading from the front."

Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images

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