JC Mars will become the latest product of the DHL Western Province youth system to make his Currie Cup debut, as a golden generation of youngsters has energised the camp. DYLAN JACK reports.
Outside back Mars has been named to make a starting debut for DHL Western Province in the Currie Cup clash with the Griffons in Cape Town on Saturday night.
The 19-year-old is one of three debutants for WP, as tighthead prop and Junior Springbok captain Zachary Porthen and young flyhalf Kyle Smith have been named on the bench.
“They are great. These are exciting players,” assistant coach Dawie Snyman said. “You could already see the hype around them when they were younger.
“The way they trained this week, the energy that they have brought, you can see that they are quality players and they will play for the Stormers.
“The quicker we can get them into pressure scenarios at a higher level in the Currie Cup, the better for their development. We are excited to see them go.”
A schoolboy sensation at Paarl Boys High, Mars also represented SA Schools and SA U18 in 2023, with clips of his elusive sidestepping going viral on social media.
Mars was named in the Junior Springbok squad this year, but an injury brought his U20 Championship campaign to a premature end.
“He’s a phenomenal ball-player. He’s got great feet, good X-factor as well,” Snyman said. “If we can get the ball to him in space, he can cause some damage.
“What’s also important for him, which we also focused on this week, is his defence. Our wings defend aggressively, so it will be a nice test for him, to make sure he gets our system under the belt.”
The trio will follow in the footsteps of flanks Divan Fuller and CJ Velleman, centre Jonathan Roche, wing Jared Africa and front rowers Vernon Matongo, Mhleli Khuzwayo and Nicolas Roebeck, who have all made their senior debuts during the tournament.
“It’s been brilliant. We told the guys that it’s Paarl Boys versus Paarl Gim tomorrow and some of these guys were playing in that game last year. Now they are playing in the Currie Cup,” Snyman said.
“It’s quite a big step for them going forward. But they have looked comfortable, you can see that they are all good rugby players.
“Also credit to our senior players, taking these boys under their wings, some of the URC players having small meetings talking about what’s expected.
“Having young blood is great for us. It’s brings a lot of energy and excitement in the squad.”
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
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Src: sarugbymag.co.za
