JP Pietersen believes the Sharks’ emphatic season-ending win over Zebre Parma offered an encouraging glimpse into the future, as the Durban franchise begins an important rebuilding phase ahead of next season, with the arrival of scrumhalf Ivan van Zyl from Saracens the latest piece in the puzzle.
The Sharks ended a frustrating United Rugby Championship campaign on a high with an entertaining 54-19 victory at Kings Park on Saturday, but the result also marked the end of an era for several senior players leaving the union. Among those saying goodbye were Siya Kolisi, Le Roux Malan, Marvin Orie, Jean Smith and Grant Williams.
Pietersen paid tribute to the departing players and the impact they made at the union.
“When people put value into the jersey, the union and the organisation, you can only say thank you,” he said after the match. “It was special seeing Siya get that standing ovation when he came off. The contribution he made to this group and this union was massive.”
While the departures bring significant experience to an end, Pietersen believes the emergence of several young players throughout the campaign has softened the blow.
He described the final-round debuts and performances from the next generation as proof that the Sharks’ long-term planning is beginning to take shape.
“It’s sad because some guys are leaving, but at the same time it’s exciting because new players are starting their journey,” he said. “As I always say, this is the end and the start. That’s the circle of life in rugby.
“The balance of this group is beautiful. We’ve got the pieces now, it’s just about how we put it together.”
The arrival of veteran scrumhalf Van Zyl also fills a critical void created by the departure of Springbok scrumhalf Williams to Japan. The former Bulls player is expected to provide valuable cover and experience alongside Jaden Hendrikse in a squad that also boasts promising young No 9s Bradley Davids and Ross Braude.
Pietersen said the squad would now benefit from a mental and physical reset after a demanding season before returning with a renewed mindset.
“It’s important for the players to get away from rugby and spend time with family,” he said. “But when we come back, the challenge is not just to compete – it’s to win.”
The coach also urged supporters to remain patient as the Sharks continue to develop a young squad capable of becoming genuine contenders in the coming seasons.
“It’s a process,” Pietersen said. “We’re building in the right direction and I’m confident we’ll be in a much better place next season with a proper pre-season.”
