Emmanuel Tshituka signs for the Sharks
The Sharks have added the addition of Emmanuel Tshituka while big names like Nyakane and Esterhuizen are also linked to the squad.
Vincent Tshituka is ready for a fierce showdown with his younger brother Emmanuel when the Sharks face the Lions at Ellis Park on Saturday. The Sharks are eager to revitalise their United Rugby Championship campaign, and Tshituka’s inside knowledge of his former team could prove crucial.
The Sharks recently bolstered their squad, confirming the signings of Emmanuel Tshituka from the Lions, as well as André Esterhuizen, Trevor Nyakane, and Jordan Hendrikse.
TSHITUKA BROTHERS: RUGBY RIVALS
“It’s always an honour stepping out on the field with my brother,” said Vincent Tshituka. “I cherish every moment, whether we’re on the same team or opposite sides on the field. It brings the best out of me, and that extra bit of motivation to be at the top of my game.”
Both brothers grew up in Johannesburg and honed their skills at Northcliff High School. Vincent’s move to Durban over a year ago now sets the stage for an exciting sibling rivalry.
TSHITUKA’S RETURN TO LIONS’ DEN
Vincent Tshituka will return to Ellis Park, his former home ground, with a point to prove. “It is special for me to go back to play the Lions… they’ve played a big part in my career and my life,” he said. “They’ll always hold a special place for me. But I’m not going there as a friend or teammate, I’m going there to get the job done.”
Tshituka’s deep understanding of the Lions’ strategies gives the Sharks an edge. “With how things have gone for us this season, they will be determined to keep us down,” he said, smiling. “They don’t want to be the ones to give us the breath of fresh air we are craving.”
SHARKS TARGETS LIONS’ PLAYMAKERS
The Sharks know the Lions will play to their strengths: physical dominance and exploiting the altitude. Tshituka expects a running game designed to tire out his team. He’ll be central to disrupting the Lions’ rhythm and targeting playmakers like Sanele Nohamba and Jordan Hendrikse.
“Sanele and Jordan are both the heart of the Lions’ attack,” Tshituka said. “A big part of our game is to shut their momentum down… You have to put them under pressure because that’s when they make mistakes.”