‘Very sensitive subject’ – Sharks boss addresses Siya Kolisi situation ahead of unfamiliar role in key Munster clash

John Plumtree says that the Sharks are “here” for Siya Kolisi after the Springboks star’s recent off-pitch difficulties, but the head coach does not expect it to affect his on-field displays.

South Africa was stunned earlier this week when Kolisi and his wife, Rachel, announced their divorce after eight years of marriage.

Despite the emotional impact that could have, the South Africa captain will feature for the Sharks in their United Rugby Championship (URC) clash against Munster this weekend.

Kolisi has been named in the unfamiliar position of number eight, where he will feature alongside Vincent Tshituka and James Venter in the loose trio.

Plumtree is adamant that it is effectively business as usual from a playing standpoint and expects the 33-year-old to be at his normal high level.

‘Got nothing to do with us’

“Ah, he’s fine and looking forward to the weekend. He’s had a really good week and trained well. It’s his own personal business and it’s really got nothing to do with us,” the Sharks boss told reporters.

“It’s a very sensitive subject around Siya, and better that we stay out [but] we’re here for him like you’d expect from a major organisation like the Sharks.”

Springboks skipper Siya Kolisi and wife Rachel announce their divorce

Kolisi made his first start of the season for the Durban outfit in the victory over Glasgow Warriors last weekend.

That came in the number six shirt, but he has now moved to the base of the scrum where Plumtree believes that he could have even more impact, particularly at the breakdown.

“I want to see how James Venter, Siya and Vincent go together, I quite like that combination. They’re all three very physical loose forwards,” Plumtree said.

“I think Siya at eight can free up more of his running game, and he’s also really good on the ball in terms of his poaching.

“Often number eights can get more of an opportunity to poach than a number six can as a second arrival at the tackle area.”

Munster challenge

After overcoming the defending URC champions in Glasgow, they now take on another former winner in the shape of Munster.

And Plumtree understands the challenges that will bring despite the head coach packing his side full of Springboks.

“A very proud club, they’ve come on tour and lost their first game so they’ll be looking for a response. They’re physical, very tough up front and are a team that plays a lot of rugby,” he said.

“We’ve played two champion clubs, one last week and one this week, so another really big test for us.”

READ MORE: Siya Kolisi makes a positional switch as Springboks-laden Sharks named for Munster humdinger