Why Tito Bonilla, when the Sharks can turn to Curwin Bosch?

I must be honest, I just can’t see why the Sharks are backing Argentina flyhalf Tito Bonilla in their URC campaign ahead of Curwin Bosch.

While the Sharks obviously feel they have some issues at No 10, and are not convinced by Bosch and Boeta Chamberlain, who has also played in the position in recent times, I doubt Bonilla is the answer.

From what I have seen, he doesn’t bring anything different to the team. He’s not a bigger threat on attack than Bosch is, and there’s surely not much difference when it comes to the kicking side of things.

I’m pleased though to see Bosch is on the bench again, even though he appears to have fallen out of favour in Durban. The thing is, Bosch is still an excellent all-round player; he just seems to need some backing.

It would appear his defensive lapses are costing him, but there must be a way around that – things that can be worked on. But as an attacking No 10 he is still one of the best; he’s a natural “baller’ and when you look at the Sharks’ DNA and how they want to play – running the ball – surely there must be space for someone like Bosch in the team?

There are rumours that he is looking for a move away from Durban, whether that is out of choice or whether he is being pushed I’m not sure, but maybe it’s not a bad thing. He has lost some confidence in the last while, maybe because he hasn’t kicked on and hasn’t got more Springbok chances, but let’s be honest Handre Pollard and Elton Jantjies have been better, so going elsewhere could rejuvenate his career.

Working in a different environment with different coaches and having other players around him could be just what he needs. I hope he finds it back to playing big-time rugby soon.

It’s good though to see Sikhumbuzo Notshe back in the mix at the Sharks. He was in great form before going down with an injury last year and will give the Sharks something off the bench in today’s URC game against the Bulls.

ALSO READ: This weekend’s URC action: Everything you need to know

The Sharks will be hurting after last week’s loss to the Stormers; for me, they certainly went into the game in Cape Town as the favourites.

It’ll be interesting to see how they muscle up to the Bulls, and we can see that’s the plan, to be physical, with Gerbrandt Grobler and Henco Venter coming in. What a game awaits.

In the early match in Joburg, the best thing going for the Lions against the Stormers is the fact the match starts at 3pm, at altitude at Ellis Park. The Lions must use that to their advantage.

However, with Brok Harris adding plenty to the front row alongside Steven Kitshofff and Scarra Ntubeni, the Stormers look a different team, with a solid platform to work from. That scrum battle is going to be wonderful to watch.

Until next week, enjoy the rugby.