Andre Esterhuizen says the returning Springboks are determined to help get the Sharks back on track when they host Saracens in the Investec Champions Cup on Saturday.
The powerful centre is set to win his 100th cap for the franchise and would love nothing more than celebrating with a much-needed win.
A youthful Sharks side suffered a heavy 56-19 away defeat in their opening Champions Cup match against six-time champions Toulouse, but Esterhuizen says the squad has quickly shifted focus under new interim coach JP Pietersen.
“A lot has happened while we were away, but everyone is focused on the same task – getting this team back to where we should be,” he said. “We’re just concentrating on this weekend and playing rugby to the best of our ability.”
Esterhuizen knows Saracens well from his time in the Premiership with Harlequins and expects a bruising challenge. The team from London crushed Clermont 47-10 in round one.
“They’re a great side. I’ve played them a few times and they showed their form last week against Clermont. They’re very good at set-piece, they’ve evolved their attack, and they love structure. It’s going to be a tough game.”
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With several Springboks rejoining the squad after a short break following the end-of-year tour, Esterhuizen says the past few days have been productive. Along with Esterhuizen, the Sharks can call on Ox Nche, Bongi Mbonambi, Siya Kolisi, Grant Williams and Ethan Hooker.
“We’ve had two really good training days – it’s been incredibly hot in Durban, but the boys got stuck in. The young guys trained well, and now with everyone back, we’re pushing hard for a proper team performance.”
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Despite the demoralising defeat against Toulouse, Esterhuizen praised the youngsters who fronted up in the opening-round loss.
“They showed a lot of heart. A few execution errors cost them, but to go to Toulouse and face a full-strength side is tough for any team. They can be proud. As youngsters, these are the games you learn from.”
Esterhuizen says the leadership group has already begun driving higher standards.
“We’ve had honest conversations about the responsibility we need to take as players. Now that we’re all back, our full focus is on turning things around and building momentum.”
Esterhuizen also confirmed that despite Bok coach Rassie Erasmus turning him into a hybrid player able to pack down successfully on the side of the scrum, he remains a specialist centre.
“I’m a centre. I’ve always been a centre, that’s my position. I’m just covering flank if we get a card or an injury.”
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Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images
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