Siya Kolisi reflects on Sharks’ URC disappointment ahead of Durban farewell

The Sharks are still hurting after failing to qualify for the United Rugby Championship (URC) knockouts.

That is why they have set themselves the goal of finishing the season strongly in their two consolation fixtures against Italian clubs Benetton and Zebre over the next two weekends.

On Saturday, Leinster-slayers Benetton will visit the Shark Tank, and the coastal side will look to deliver a performance worthy of their supporters to show that all is not lost, despite likely being the only South African side not to reach the play-offs.

According to Sharks loose forward and Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, they endured a tough week at training following the last game.

“We are really disappointed that we didn’t make the top eight, especially with the group that we have here,” he said.

“We definitely should have qualified and have no excuses for missing out. However, we want to make sure that we finish the season strongly. It still hurts us, you know, with the way the fans have supported us so much and we couldn’t deliver for them or for the club itself. We should be doing better than we did this season.

“But yeah, we’ve got a big challenge this week with Benetton. They are also a great team and have beaten some big sides this season. So, we want to finish our year strongly and hopefully the guys can build going forward from these last two games.”

Kolisi said it has been tough for him, especially knowing he is on his way out and that they could not secure a play-off place. The veteran will join the Stormers next season after a couple of years in Durban.

He added that he wants to enjoy his final two weeks in the coastal city and bid farewell properly to the fans during the last matches at Kings Park.

“Saying goodbye to the boys will be difficult. It’s been a special place,” he said of his time in Durban.

“Thank you so much to the people of KZN who have welcomed my family and me. My kids love coming here; they really enjoy supporting the team. They love the team, but they also love the city itself and the people here. Thank you for welcoming us and making us feel part of the family.

“We’ll definitely come back as much as we can, and we’ll always support the boys from afar. I’m grateful to the people here, and I’m grateful to the Sharks for everything they’ve done for me — for supporting me in everything and understanding how important family is. Not just saying it, but helping me get closer to my kids.”