Griquas head coach Pieter Bergh has welcomed the acquisition of two powerhouse members of the DHL Stormers tight five on loan for the foreseeable future.
Bergh believes that the arrival of prop Sazi Sandi and lock Connor Evans, both seasoned in the Vodacom URC, at the Kimberley outfit is a mutually beneficial arrangement.
“Our players see why those guys are at a higher level,” he told Netwerk24. “Their work ethic and consistent contributions on the field are clear. Bringing in quality players like them motivates others and adds immense value.
“We know the players who come from the Cape are well coached, they understand defence and you can see they come from good structures.”
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Bergh is confident that Sandi and Evans will seamlessly integrate into the Griquas squad, currently preparing for the SA Cup final against the Pumas on Saturday.
He appreciates the cooperation with the Stormers, noting that former loanees such as Andre-Hugo Venter and Leon Lyons have shown the benefits of this arrangement.
For the Stormers, the loan spells ensure players like Sandi and Evans remain match-fit and ready for recall if needed, avoiding weeks of inactivity.
“For Dobbo [Stormers director of rugby John Dobson] it’s the nice thing; if Neethling Fouche or Frans Malherbe gets hurt, then it’s not a case of Sazi Sandi not playing for three or four weeks. He gets a player who is match fit,” Bergh added.
“The same applies to Connor Evans; if there are locks who get an injury he [Dobson] can call in someone who hasn’t just held tackle bags. I think from that point of view it’s a good partnership.”
Photo: Grant Pitcher/Gallo Images
The post Stormers stars bolster Griquas pack appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Src: sarugbymag.co.za
