Springboks captain Kolisi's verdict on back row switch under Plumtree

Following on from the Sharks back to back-to-back victories in December 2024, former All Blacks assistant coach and current Sharks head coach John Plumtree believes he’s getting the most out of Springboks captain Siya Kolisi at number eight.

After the Springboks captain won man of the match in their group stage 39-21 victory over Exeter on Saturday, his coach talked about the amount of ball Kolisi is getting at number eight.

“I like Siya at number eight. He gets more ball in his hands and he is such a skilful player,” head coach Plumtree said to the media after the victory.

“You want to give him the ball as much as possible, so I like him in that spot.”

Kolisi, who normally plays Blindside flanker for the Springboks, has been playing a different role for the Sharks.

Plumtree was very complimentary of Kolisi’s form, saying his knowledge of the game is helping the Sharks.

“At this stage of his career, he is such an intelligent rugby player and he understands the game really well,” Plumtree said.

“I think he is really enjoying it there and now with Vincent [Tshituka] out and James Venter out [due to injuries], Siya’s role becomes massive for us.

“He is playing really well, so it’s good for him.”

The 33-year-old seems to be enjoying the role, taking him back to his school days where he was first recognised as a future Springbok.

“I’m loving it, that’s where I started playing rugby, at number eight,” Kolisi said after the match.

“That’s where coach Rassie Erasmus spotted me when I was at school so it’s really good to get back to it.”

Not only is Kolisi getting his hands on the ball more, but the Springboks captain is also crossing the line more frequently, scoring two of his team's five tries in the contest against the Exeter Chiefs.

“I’m getting the ball in my hands more. I’m more involved in the game and I’m enjoying it.”

Sharks head coach has started Kolisi at number eight three times this season, and will likely continue to use his star player in this role.