OPINION: Sharks depth a headache for Gold

With a clean bill of health, the Sharks will have no less than eleven loose forwards to pick from during the Super Rugby season – making them the envy of the other South African franchises.

As it stands, Marcell Coetzee and twin brothers Daniel and Jean-Luc du Preez are the preferred starting options. Nipping at their heels are Philip van der Walt, Jean Deysel, Keegan Daniel and Khaya Majola.

Meanwhile Jacques Potgieter, Francois Kleynhans, Renaldo Bothma and Tera Mtembu are on the comeback trail from injury. Once they are fit, Gold is going to have a tough time keeping all those players happy when only three can start a match.

On merit, the current loose trio picks itself. The Du Preez twins have proved their worth at this level with their blend of physicality and dynamism. Coetzee has provided more of what we are used to seeing from him – big ball carries and crunching tackles.

In terms of physicality, that will always be a combination to bank on but the options at Gold’s disposal could lend to a more expansive game when needed.

The four contenders

Daniel has finally returned from Japan but after two years away, it seems he will have to wait for a chance to play. Gold made it clear that he still rates the former Sharks captain, but wouldn’t go further than saying Daniel ‘would have some role to play’ this season.

One also has to feel for Van der Walt, who was concussed on the eve of the preseason friendlies in France. Having missed those two clashes, he has had to settle for a spot on the bench. He had a massive impact when he featured against the Kings and his experience could see him favoured over the young Du Preez brothers when the Sharks take on tougher opposition.

Deysel will always be a favourite son of Kings Park but his red card and suspension last year cost the Sharks dearly. Nevertheless he brings a physical presence that no other player at the Union has and there is no doubt he will play this season.

The injured Potgieter was a massive acquisition for the side as he can cover both flank and lock. Potgieter became a refined player after a year with the Waratahs and he is just another big name that would slot into most teams starting XV. 

The reality of rugby means that sooner rather than later, players will succumb to injury or fatigue - none more so than flanks and eighthmen. So a huge amount of depth is a welcome problem to have.

On the flip side, the forwards who are left out week after week will have their patience tested. Every rugby player wants to start a game and loose forwards thrive off continuity and momentum that is only gained from game time.

Some will have to content themselves with Currie Cup duty, which kicks off in April, while the rest fight for starting berths in the Super Rugby outfit.

Which players feature will be decided by Gold and his coaching staff as well as the rate of attrition through the season. Springbok players like Coetzee will need to be rested, while some sort of a rotation policy would be the easiest way for Gold to keep his players motivated.

A proper assessment of their opposition will also be a good way to ensure selection of most of his players. With so many different options, Gold can pick his loose trio based on their respective strengths in light of the opposition they are playing.

Facing smaller packs would suit the playing styles of Daniel, Mtembu and Kleynhans, while bigger opposition would call for more physical players like the Du Preez brothers, Deysel, Potgieter and Coetzee.

Or Gold could just close his eyes and draw three names out of a hat every weekend - the players at his disposal really are that good.

With a long season ahead, most of the players will see action but there is no doubt that one or two will face a disappointing run without game time. 

Which three Sharks players would you like to see starting in the loose trio? Let us know on Twitter - @gazza_jenks @ECRSportswave or on Facebook - ECRSportswave.