Embattled Super Rugby finds a rare fan in Robert du Preez

As rumours swirl over South Africa’s future in Super Rugby, Sharks coach Robert du Preez has given a glowing endorsement of the tournament in its current form.

Sanzaar, the governing body for rugby in the Southern Hemisphere, last year controversially decided to revert back to a 15-team structure as a way of beefing up the competitiveness of the tournament.

But New Zealand’s dominance continues while interest, especially at the grounds, is waning noticeably.

However, Du Preez believes the logjam in the South African conference illustrates that competition is stronger.

While the Lions still comfortably occupy top spot with 31 points, only 4 points separates Argentina’s Jaguares (24) in second spot and the Bulls (20) in fifth.

“The pressure in this conference has become massive,” said Du Preez on Thursday ahead of Saturday’s derby against the Bulls at Loftus.

“The quality of this year’s competition has been elevated. It’s just so much better than last season. There are no easy games anymore.”

The Sharks mentor cited the example of them thrashing the Highlanders last weekend but the New Zealanders subduing the Bulls the previous week.

“With due respect, who would’ve expected the Bulls to lose that game?

“Sure, the Highlanders are a great team but the result just showed again that anything can happen on the day. You’ve really got to be on top of your game every week,” said Du Preez.

“Just look at the Jaguares. They’ve made our conference even more competitive.”

Sharks: Curwin Bosch, Sbu Nkosi, Lukhanyo Am, Andre Esterhuizen, Makazole Mapimpi, Robert du Preez, Cameron Wright, Daniel du Preez, Jean-Luc du Preez, Jacques Vermeulen, Ruan Botha (c), Tyler Paul, Thomas du Toit, Akker van der Merwe, Beast Mtawarira. Bench: Chiliboy Ralepelle, Juan Schoeman, Ross Geldenhuys, Stephan Lewies,Wian Vosloo, Louis Schreuder, Marius Louw, Lwazi Mvovo.

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