JP WANTS TO CELEBRATE 100 IN STYLE(S.SPORT) “I trained for my return to Super Rugby when I was in Japan, and when I was in Durban over Christmas I chatted to Jake (White) and discussed with him the plans going forward. I knew what shape I had to be in. “I think I was a bit rusty in my first game back, but it was just really nice to be in the Sharks team after six months away. It’s good to join a Sharks team that is winning and playing good rugby. I watched them from Japan and they’re looking really good. It wasn’t easy coming in, because there have been quite a few changes, but I just wanted to learn as quickly as I could.” Pietersen says he owes a debt to the Sharks, and his 100th game will be about repaying some of that depth. “It’s a special honour for any player to play in their 100th game. The Sharks gave me the opportunity, so I’ve wanted to be loyal to them, and they’ve been loyal to me. I’ve had wonderful memories here that I will cherish forever, and it is really special to play 100 games for one union.” Pietersen first played for the Sharks under the coaching of Dick Muir and made his Springbok debut in 2006 – as a fullback against Australia. He has played most of his subsequent games at national level on the wing, but he has played several games for the Sharks at centre. Later this week, when the Sharks team is announced, we will know whether he will be playing his 100th in his more accustomed position, or whether it may be in the No 13 jersey. Although S’bura Sithole did well against the Reds at outside centre, Pietersen could be in line for a switch inside if Ndungane is ready to return to top rugby.
Posted on: Tue, 18 Mar 2014 08:46:16 +0000
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