Ox Nche credits JP Pietersen for Sharks’ newfound grit

Springbok prop Ox Nche has credited Sharks coach JP Pietersen with transforming the squad's mindset since taking over from John Plumtree. While the Sharks have recorded two wins and two losses since Pietersen assumed the coaching reins in December, they have displayed a newfound fighting spirit.

Last week, while the Stormers and Bulls each conceded 61 points in the Champions Cup, a youthful Sharks side emerged from their 26–10 defeat to Sale Sharks in Manchester with their heads held high. This week, they return to Durban to host Clermont in a must-win Champions Cup fixture at Kings Park.

“JP tells us the key is our mental state because we have the ability,” said Nche, a 47-Test veteran. “We have guys with amazing ability, but the big thing JP has been working on is the mental side of the game.

"The guys need to start believing in themselves and are putting in the extras they need to get to where JP wants us to be. It is about changing the mindset — how they see the game in terms of how hard they work and putting in the effort for their teammates.”

Clermont have failed to earn a single point from their three losses in the competition so far. With their Champions Cup campaign effectively over, the French side are reportedly sending a ‘B’ team to Durban to prioritise their Top 14 domestic season.

The Sharks, however, still harbour a glimmer of hope for the last 16. A five-point haul this weekend is essential, and should they secure it, the door may open — provided results elsewhere in Pool 1 go their way. Sale could blow the pool wide open if they defeat former champions Toulouse, while Glasgow Warriors could assist the Sharks by beating Saracens on Sunday.

“The aim on Saturday is to get maximum points,” Nche said. “We want to win and hopefully pick up extra points to improve our points difference (currently –48). We’re going all in and regarding this as a playoff match.”

Nche is confident that the Sharks are on an upward trajectory. “I don’t think we are far off from where we want to be. Last week we had our opportunities, and there were a few moments that changed the game.”

Despite Clermont’s decision to travel with an understrength squad, Nche insists the Sharks will take no chances. “Clermont play a very expansive game. Even with a big French pack, they like to offload and play with tempo. We need to contain their forwards so their backs don’t get opportunities to shine.”

Meanwhile, the Sharks have confirmed two significant signings to bolster their tight-five stocks: lock Stephan Lewies, who returns to Durban following a successful stint captaining Harlequins in London, and tighthead prop Nemo Roelofse, who returns to South Africa after several seasons in France.