Star Springbok scrumhalf set for departure from Sharks for overseas club

The struggling Sharks could be in line for a hefty blow next June if scrumhalf Grant Williams takes up a big-money offer from an overseas club.

Williams is one of the best players in the Sharks’ system and has made his mark at international level as a nippy scrumhalf with a penchant for scoring tries. Williams is out of contract in June next year and, according to Rapport, is keen to take his career overseas. The club making the offer has not been named.

Williams has been in Durban since leaving Paarl Gimnasium in 2018. He took an unusual route to stardom, first playing club rugby at College Rovers in Durban before being noticed by the Sharks.

Over the last three years, the Sharks have alternated Williams and his Springbok team-mate, Jaden Hendrikse. Williams’ departure would put more focus and responsibility on Hendrikse.

The Sharks also have the services of the promising Ross Braude, the former Grey College schoolboy star who has played for Canada.

Meanwhile, it is known that the Sharks are shopping for a big, ball-carrying No. 8. It is an area of the game where the Sharks have been lacking for some time.

It is understood that they are talking to former Shark Dan du Preez, who has been at the Sale Sharks since 2019.

Also in the picture is Hanro Liebenberg, the former Bull who has been a big success story for Leicester Tigers in the English Premiership.

Another former Shark who could make his way back to Durban is Harlequins captain Stephan Lewies. The Sharks are vulnerable at lock because of injuries and the suspension of Eben Etzebeth.

Lewies, a one-cap Springbok, has made a name for himself in the English Premiership and boasts vast experience after stints at the Sharks, Lions and in Japan. He has played almost 100 games for Harlequins since joining them in 2019.