Leinster Rugby coach Leo Cullen is relying on the expertise of former Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber as they prepare to face a Sharks team boasting a wealth of South African international talent.

Leinster will clash with the Sharks in a Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) match at Kings Park Stadium on Saturday (19:15), a meeting between the top two sides in the URC standings.

The powerful European team enters this match following a last-minute defeat to the Blue Bulls at Loftus Stadium last weekend, their first loss of the season.

They are set to face a Sharks side featuring a host of Springbok players, including captain Siya Kolisi, Ox Nche, Bongi Mbonambi, Vincent Koch, Jaden Hendrikse, Jordan Hendrikse, Makazole Mapimpi, and Andre Esterhuizen, all of whom are in the starting lineup for Saturday’s game.

Nienaber coached the majority of these players during his tenure as Springbok defense coach and later as head coach, leading South Africa to Rugby World Cup victories in 2019 and 2023, before departing after the 2023 triumph.

“It will be a significant test for us, and Jacques’ knowledge of many of the Springbok players is a crucial asset, particularly in this competition, the URC,” Cullen stated.

“His understanding of the travel demands is also invaluable.”

Cullen explained their decision to bring Nienaber on board: “We were seeking a coach at that time, and after several discussions, Jacques’ name emerged.

“His extensive experience, including his time in Ireland with our rivals Munster, and his expertise at the highest level of the game, having coached against many of these players, made him an ideal fit. He’s a great personality, charismatic within the group, and we’re delighted to have him.

“He’s had a considerable impact across various aspects of the game. He’s a defensive expert, and his role as a senior coach has been immensely helpful to me. He’s a fantastic addition, and we’re very pleased to have him.”

Leinster has consistently held the top position in the URC standings, but they have often faltered in the latter stages of the competition.

Cullen was asked to explain this trend.

“I believe the challenge lies in competing in two tournaments (including the Investec Champions Cup),” Cullen explained.

“With a crucial Champions Cup match against Harlequins the following weekend, juggling both competitions is difficult.

“Maintaining focus on two fronts simultaneously is always challenging, but that’s the nature of the season now.

“Our ability to manage this is crucial, and it may explain our semi-final exits in the URC.

“This season presents a new challenge, and we’re aiming to learn from past experiences. However, our focus is on the present, specifically the challenge against the Sharks on Saturday, which will be a significant test.”

Pic courtesy of Gerhard Duraan