The Sharks would appear to have a few new faces at training this week, although it’s not yet clear on what basis they’re training with the squad – or even who some of them are! Since we love a good mystery, let’s examine a few of Steve Haag’s snaps from training today and try to figure out who is there.
We know that props are needed, and it’s thus no surprise to find a few new “fatties” training with the team. Monday’s session seems to have involved a bit of speed testing and among those sweating it out and trying to move his front-ranker’s frame at a pace more suited to a lighter man is Zimbabwean international prop Denford Mutamangira. Also in the mix is a former Bulls age-group player at prop, Juan Schoeman. 23-year-old Schoeman played for the Junior Springboks in 2011, but has had limited opportunities at senior level due to a front-row logjam in Pretoria. Mutamangira, at 31, is a fair bit older and has captained Zimbabwe from the front row.
Winger Charlie Mayeza, who impressed in the club ranks enough to play a few Vodacom Cup games, is also training with the squad and might come into the Currie Cup frame.
Two other players were snapped and I think I know one of them. Despite being mis-captioned as Johan du Toit (who he definitely isn’t), I suspect this player is Christiaan de Bruin, a lock who moved over from the Bulls at the start of the year and played some Vodacom Cup rugby.
Anyone recognise this fellow, who looks like he might be a lock or big flank? Lots of points to the first person who can give me a positive identification. Update: The gentleman in question appears to be Rovers utility forward Wade Elliot.
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That mystery man is pretty big. Props a lock and a wing, all positions that could do with some added depth, lets hope they impress.
@Seth101 (Comment 1) : I believe the mystery guy might be Rovers lock-cum-loosie Wade Elliot
All we need now is a magician of the calibre of a Grant Bashford in charge of them and they will mesmerise defences the world over.
#eyeroll
That Is Christiaan De Bruin Lock/Flank
The big guy in pic nr 6 is wade dean elliot confirm on m.varsitycup.co.za if you like
Juan Schoeman might be a waste of time, but he showed some promise as a junior
Might just be some evaluation sessions or invitation to train. At least they are casting the net.
@coolfusion (Comment 7) : ja, I don’t think we need to get too worked up at this stage. Just interesting to see who they are looking at (especially guys from out of province).
Guys like Wade, Charlie and Brendan are local club players, so you would expect them to be getting a look in
Anyone recognise this fellow,
Is he a cyclist?
Need to teach these newbies not to run so funny…
@VinChainSaw (Comment 10) :
@VinChainSaw (Comment 9) : I don’t get it
@robdylan (Comment 12) : Smooth legs fella.
@VinChainSaw (Comment 13) : you clearly gaze very intently at pictures of other men’s legs….
@robdylan (Comment 14) : Haha….fabulous comeback Rob!
@robdylan (Comment 14) : Haha, I couldn’t miss it!
Nice to see a couple of club players in the mix.
But now you made us look so I’ll just mention that those are very skinny legs too.
@coolfusion (Comment 18) :
Lol.