All contractual negotiations between the Sharks and Argentinian star Juan Martin Hernandez have been successfully completed and now just the arrangement of his work permit needs to be sorted out before he inks his signature and wings his way to the coastal franchise.
Craig Lewis writes for the Daily News.
On Tuesday, Sharks CEO Brian van Zyl confirmed that it was simply paperwork that was delaying the rubber stamp from being applied to the contract, but expressed optimism that all would be finalised within a “matter of days”.
The 27-year-old Stade Francais flyhalf is keen to make the move to the Sharks as soon as possible.
Sharks assistant coach Grant Bashford said if the signing materialised, they had no doubt Hernandez would have plenty to offer as both a player and a mentor to some of the youngsters in the team.
“He pretty much dominated the 2007 World Cup for Argentina, he’s a great player and not only covers the No 10 position but 12 and 15 as well. He has an excellent kicking game and he’s one of those players that could really have a massive impact in our squad.”
For now, though, the Sharks’ only focus is on preparing as best they can for Friday night’s game against Boland at the Absa Stadium (7.10pm).
“As a team we are still growing and we know that every week will be a challenge,” Bashford described.
“Some might view it as if we’re playing a minnow team this weekend but we’re not seeing it like that at all. It’s a huge game and we’ve got everything to play for with two really tough matches against the Bulls and Cheetahs set to follow this one.”
The Sharks will also remember that Boland have often been highly competitive in the past, and Bashford said they expected them to be just as difficult to contain this time around.
“We’ve had a good look at them, they are a typical Boland team, they have plenty of skill and are happy to play from all areas of the field. They have a solid pack, lineout variations, and are a side that is very competitive at the breakdown. They have enterprising backs who will come to play, and if they get the opportunity to counter they can hurt you. They will have their tails up after their opening win this past weekend and they’ll be here, not just to compete, but to win!”
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I told you so 😛
@Rahul (Comment 1) : yes yes…
Juan Martin Hernandez stood out as the best 10 at the 2007 RWC by a lot. While Butch was very consistent and solid, not making any mistakes, Hernandez was getting his line off with flair, has amazing line kicking skills, and is an excellent goal kicker as well. His ability at 12 may be just the thing that is needed to have him play alongside Cronje when he comes on at 10. He will most certainly help to develop this youngster.
whats happening except for nothing?
quick question: where is duane vermeulen and akona ndugane?
@JarsonX (Insomniac) (Comment 5) : both injured
@Dancing Bear (Comment 3) : you still blocked at work?
@robdylan (Comment 6) : how long or how bad?
@robdylan (Comment 7) : I’m afraid so Rob. It’s not that I don’t want to spend all my time at work on Sharksworld, they just won’t let me 👿
@Dancing Bear (Comment 9) : they threatend to take my phone away because i spent to much time on it 👿
@JarsonX (Insomniac) (Comment 10) : I spend too much time on the loo, I hope no-one takes that away!
@Dancing Bear (Comment 9) : i have a potential solution. Will mail you
Lee Byrne apparently rejected a lucrative offer from the Sharks to play for them in the Currie Cup and Super 14.
Looks like the Stormers also made him an offer. 🙄
@McLovin (Comment 13) : the hooker?
interesting that the Sharks are looking for a new hooker
@robdylan (Comment 16) : Fullback.