According to an overnight report in Beeld, Griquas prop Steph Roberts was spotted at Sharks training yesterday afternoon and appears to have joined the side on loan.
Given the long-term injuries to both Beast Mtawarira and Julian Redelinghuys, it’s not really surprising that the Sharks have opted to bring in some cover and with a dearth of quality options available on the international market, the baton seems to have been passed to the 26-year-old former Grey College front ranker.
At 1.88m and 118kg, Roberts certainly fits the bill in terms of size, but that has to be somewhat tempered by the fact that, over a senior career spanning 6 years, he has yet to be capped at Super Rugby level. After representing South Africa at under 19 level back in 2004, Roberts spent three years playing Vodacom Cup and a smattering of Currie Cup rugby for the Cheetahs, before moving to Kimberley in 2007 and establishing himself as first choice loosehead prop in the Griquas side.
The Sharks have yet to confirm the move, so we’re not sure at this stage whether Roberts will become a full-time member of the squad, or if there’s still a call to be made.
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Beeld better be careful they might be restricted to attending one pratice a week for “leaking” this before it has been officially announced.
As long as he only covers for Dale, I am happy. That guy is strong!
Cover for dale, guess its good. Our scrums looked amazing last week, hopefully we don’t pick up anymore injuries
Does anyone know anything about this guy?
He probably won’t even make the bench if we are lucky enough to keep our remaining props fit..
Go to the World Artists website and look under Loosehead Props. He has a bio there with a highlights reel.
I thought Plum may have considered bringing in BG Uys