Pietersen relishing Sharks challenge, hands captaincy to Esterhuizen

December 12, 2025 740 1

Sharks interim coach, JP Pietersen, says he is energised by the challenge of steadying what has looked like a rudderless Sharks outfit as they prepare to host Saracens in the Investec Champions Cup in Durban on Saturday.

Pietersen, who was appointed after John Plumtree stepped aside last week, admitted the past few days have been a whirlwind, but says the players’ response has convinced him that the team can reset quickly.

“When I was asked to help the Sharks out, it was easy to say yes,” Pietersen said. “This organisation has done so much for me. I’m excited for the challenge, and I believe we can turn things around. The players had some honest conversations this week, and the energy’s been good.”

A youthful Sharks side lost 56-19 to Toulouse in France last week, and will look to get their Champions Cup campaign back on track against at home.

A major talking point this week has been Pietersen’s decision to hand the captaincy to Springbok André Esterhuizen, who will run out for his 100th appearance for the Sharks on Saturday.

Springbok and former Sharks skipper, Siya Kolisi, returns to the starting lineup, but Pietersen says Esterhuizen was the natural fit to lead.

“For me, André was an easy choice. He’s an old Sharks man who knows this place inside out. The way he plays, he asks a lot from the players around him. Siya has huge responsibilities with the Springboks, but this was simply the right role for André,” Pietersen said, confirming that Esterhuizen will captain the Sharks for the remainder of the campaign.