JP shocked by Sharks’ silence

JP Pietersen says a telling moment in his first meeting as interim coach revealed just how much work lay ahead at the Sharks.

The former Sharks and Springbok winger, who was confirmed as permanent head coach on Wednesday after stepping in for John Plumtree in December, recalled being stunned by the players’ response – or lack thereof.

“They could not answer me,” Pietersen told IOL Sport. “That was a worry, but also a good sign because I had something to work with.”

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Pietersen immediately turned to his leadership group to reset the Sharks’ direction.

“I asked the likes of Andre Esterhuizen [who he would make captain] what type of rugby we want to play. I said we can only implement a game plan that we have the tools for. I can’t ask to play a slow game when I only have Cheslin Kolbes and a pack that can’t scrum.

“We settled on a game plan that reflects the character of the group. We had tough, honest conversations about the type of rugby we want to play.

“First, I had to set the standard. I said it was unacceptable to lose by 50 points in Toulouse [in the Investec Champions Cup] while never looking like we were fighting for the jersey. It just looked like we were making up the numbers and not getting stuck in.”

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Since taking charge on 5 December, Pietersen has overseen five wins from seven matches, including two statement victories over the Stormers.

“In my first talks, I said I want pride in the jersey, and I want to see desperation. I said, let us not worry too much about the technical stuff at first. I want to see what it means to you to wear that jersey because you represent a brand that is well known worldwide, and you have fans who live and die for the Sharks.

“You need to show them appreciation, and not worry too much about results at first, because if you don’t fight, you won’t get results. It all goes together.”

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