Avatar photo

By Heinz Schenk

Journalist


Schreuder downplays his century

The Sharks skipper and his troops have more pressing matters to deal with at Loftus.


There’s probably a good reason why Louis Schreuder isn’t indulging much in the hype of his 100th Super Rugby cap when the Sharks travel to Loftus to take on the Bulls on Saturday.

While the 28-year-old scrumhalf’s achievement is an indication of his value, those caps have been spread between Durbanites, Stormers and Kings.

And, as hard as that’s to swallow, a 100th cap reached in such a manner doesn’t quite carry the same majesty as a century for one franchise.

Given the perception of divided loyalty, Schreuder – as Sharks skipper – shifted all the focus to his teammates.

“I think this milestone is exciting for me. I haven’t given it much thought yet but it’s not about myself,” he said.

“It’s about the team and how they perform. The milestone will definitely take a back seat this weekend.”

Indeed, the Sharks’ good start to the season was dealt a reality check last weekend with a clumsy loss to the Stormers, rendering the trek to Pretoria hugely important in terms of the side renewing its credentials as an evolved team.

“It’s not up to me for motivation for this weekend because if you’re not motivated yourself‚ then you’re in the wrong profession‚ especially after the loss against the Stormers.”

Sharks: Rhyno Smith, Sbu Nkosi, Lukhanyo Am, Jeremy Ward, Makazole Mapimpi, Robert du Preez jr, Louis Schreuder (c), Dan du Preez, Jacques Vermeulen, Wian Vosloo, Hyron Andrews, Gideon Koegelenberg, Coenie Oosthuizen, Akker van der Merwe, Beast Mtawarira. Bench: Fez Mbatha, Juan Schoeman, Thomas du Toit, Ruben van Heerden, Pepsi Buthelezi, Grant Williams, Andre Esterhuizen, Curwin Bosch.

For more sport your way, download The Citizen’s app for iOS and Android.

Read more on these topics

Sharks

Access premium news and stories

Access to the top content, vouchers and other member only benefits