Phepsi Buthelezi might be the new Siya Kolisi

Phepsi Buthelezi has all the attributes to develop into an open side flank in the mould of Siya Kolisi, according to experienced Sharks boss John Plumtree.

Plumtree made this assertion after selecting Buthelezi, one of the most the versatile forwards at the Sharks, at No 6 for their United Rugby Championship clash against Scarlets this week.

The left-field selection comes after Buthelezi has predominately featured at No 8 and blindside flank for the Sharks across all competitions since making his senior debut way back in 2019.

SIYA KOLISI 2.0 IS READY TO TAKE FLIGHT

Explaining why the 24-year-old was picked at No 6, Plumtree explained that Buthelezi has similar attributes to those that make Siya Kolisi such a world class and effect back rower.

“I think Phepsi could develop into a pretty good six, in the Siya Kolisi-type mould. He’s pretty relentless around the park so he has a good work rate,” he told reporters.

“His skill set around just poaching the ball and turning possession over he’s going to have to improve on and get better at, but he’s obviously a lineout option as well.

“Phepsi has had a good season and he’s proven to me that he’s pretty resilient with the amount of games that he has played. I’m not saying he’s going to be a six, seven and eight, but I’d certainly like him to be able to play in both positions.”

If you want to watch South Africa’s new Siya Kolisi in action, the Sharks’ showdown with the Scarlets kicks off at 8:35pm on Friday night.

SHARKS TEAM SELECTED FOR SCARLETS CLASH

Sharks — 15 Aphelele Fassi, 14 Werner Kok, 13 Lukhanyo Am (captain), 12 Ethan Hooker, 11 Makazole Mapimpi, 10 Siya Masuku, 9 Grant Williams, 8 Vincent Tshituka, 7 Lappies Labuschagne, 6 Phepsi Buthelezi, 5 Emile van Heerden, 4 Eben Etzebeth, 3 Vincent Koch, 2 Fez Mbatha, 1 Ox Nche.
Subs: 16 Kerron van Vuuren, 17 Ntuthuko Mchunu, 18 Hanro Jacobs, 19 Corne Rahl, 20 Gerbrandt Grobler, 21 Jaden Hendrikse, 22 Boeta Chamberlain, 23 Francois Venter.