Tendai Beast Mtawarira of the Cell C Sharks during the Cell C Sharks training session at Jonsson Kings Park on March 19, 2019 in Durban, South Africa. (Photo by Steve Haag/Gallo Images)
It would seem that the misfortune of missing last year’s year-end tour for the Springboks turned out to be a blessing in disguise for Beast Mtawarira.
The evergreen 33-year-old prop on Saturday will equal former Bok teammate Adriaan Strauss’ record as the most capped South African in Super Rugby history.
And the best part of Mtawarira’s 156th game in the tournament is that no-one is questioning his inclusion.
The Zimbabwe-born loosehead has been in fine form in 2019, anchoring the scrum, carrying with his familiar zest and pulling off some crunching tackles.
Last weekend for example, Mtawarira completed 10 tackles.
Not bad for a guy whose last three seasons have been plagued by doubts over his continued suitability for such an important role.
“When you speak about Beast, you actually need a lot of time to talk about him,” said Sharks coach Robert du Preez on Thursday, ahead of the weekend’s re-match with the Bulls at home.
“I know it’s a cliche, but he’s a true legend of the game. He’s been immense for us all year. His leadership has really stood out for me, on and off the field. He’s supported (regular skipper) Louis Schreuder and more importantly, he’s just helped incorporate our youngsters so well. He’s been outstanding.”
The value of experience has been one of the more prominent themes in South Africa’s Super Rugby campaign to date.
Duane Vermeulen and Schalk Brits have influenced the Bulls positively, while the Lions still lean heavily on Warren Whiteley’s inspirational presence.
Mtawarira can easily be added to that list.
“Beast is the most professional guy I’ve ever worked with in my career,” said Schreuder.
“He’s an unbelievable person. A leadership group is so important. What really stood out for me last week is that our leaders also played well. You still need to contribute in terms of your general play.”
Mtawarira has emphatically ticked those boxes.
Sharks: Aphelele Fassi, Lwazi Mvovo, Lukhanyo Am, Andre Esterhuizen, Makazole Mapimpi, Robert du Preez jr, Louis Schreuder (c), Dan du Preez, Jacques Vermeulen, Luke Stringer, Hyron Andrews, Ruben van Heerden, Coenie Oosthuizen, Akker van der Merwe, Beast Mtawarira. Bench: Kerron van Vuuren, Thomas du Toit, Khutha Mchunu, Gideon Koegelenberg, Philip van der Walt, Grant Williams, Kobus van Wyk, Curwin Bosch.
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