Why is Etzebeth out of the mix at the Sharks?

Today at 04:34 AM

Earlier this week the Sharks confirmed a 28-man squad for their two-match European tour that kicks off with a clash against Bordeaux-Begles on Sunday, but Eben Etzebeth was once again missing from the team list.

The squad features a balance of seasoned campaigners and some returning World Cup-winning Springboks, but the Sharks are still without Etzebeth, who last played a competitive match in early December.

The impact of the influential lock has been sorely missed by the Sharks in recent weeks in which their form has begun to flatline.

However, it’s been confirmed that Etzebeth has been troubled by the after-effects of concussion, and it’s clear that the coastal side don’t want to take any risks just yet, although he should be available when the team return to South Africa.

Also missing from the latest touring squad are tighthead prop Vincent Koch, flyhalf Jordan Hendrikse and winger Makazole Mapimpi after they failed their HIA tests following Saturday's defeat to Toulouse at Kings Park.

According to a Sharks statement on Monday, the Springbok trio will be monitored this week and "hopefully they will be able to join the team" ahead of the clash against Cardiff next Saturday.

The Sharks will have to make do without Etzebeth

There are at least welcome returns for prop Ntuthuko Mchunu, loose forward James Venter, scrumhalf Grant Williams, centre Lukhanyo Am and wing Eduan Keyter.

"A full-strength Sharks side with the guys we currently have out would have made our game against Toulouse a bit more interesting, but I can't discredit the players we did have out there," coach John Plumtree explained.

"We have six or seven key players out at the moment and they would make a massive different to our team."

Meanwhile, in a recent appearance on the Times' Ruck Rugby podcast, Etzebeth explained what continues to motivate him at this stage of his career.

"The Springboks mean a lot to me and so it does for so many other players," he said.

"Every year you want to be on top of your game to be in that squad and force your way into the starting XV. So that's always been my biggest motivation to be part of the team and to be selected and not let a young guy come through to take your position.

"Obviously, Rugby World Cup 2027 is at the back of everyone's mind but going into 2025 at club level, I don't think I've been that successful at club level and won too many trophies so I'd love to be more successful with the Sharks, whether that's in Europe or the URC.

"That's the motivation but also personally, to stay on top of my game for as long as possible and not get thrown out of the system because you are not good enough anymore but rather just keep on performing and being part of the plans."

What have been your highlights from his career?

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