Sharks determined to send Siya Kolisi off in style in URC finale against Zebre

The Sharks are determined to give departing Springbok captain Siya Kolisi and several other outgoing players a fitting send-off when they close out their United Rugby Championship campaign against Zebre Parma at Kings Park on Saturday (1.45pm kick-off).

While the match carries little significance in the standings, it has become an emotional occasion for the Durban franchise, with Kolisi among a group of players set to make their final appearances in Sharks colours.

Coach JP Pietersen confirmed the union had already begun saying their farewells at the team’s recent awards evening, but said a special tribute was planned after Saturday’s clash.

Kolisi’s departure for the Stormers marks the end of a short but influential stint back in Durban after returning to the Sharks from France in 2023. Although injuries limited his game-time this season, Pietersen said the Bok skipper’s influence stretched far beyond matchday performances.

“He’s been phenomenal for us the whole year,” Pietersen said. “Even when he’s been injured or not playing, he’s still contributing to the team."

Pietersen spoke glowingly about the impact Kolisi has had within the squad environment, particularly among younger players coming through the system. “He’s been so helpful with Nick Hatton and Matt Ramao in the loose-forward combination.

With his knowledge and experience, there’s so much you can take from him as a group and as a coach,” Pietersen said. "He’s been through difficult situations himself in rugby where he had to leave teams, so he’s got a heap of experience, and it’s sad we’re losing him."

The Sharks coach also highlighted Kolisi’s connection with the wider union and local rugby community. “And even off the field, if the women’s team or junior teams are playing, he’s there supporting them. He’s been phenomenal for KwaZulu-Natal rugby and for the Sharks.”

Saturday’s fixture will also be the final home outing for a number of other senior players — including Bok scrum-half Grant Williams and lock Marvin Orrie — as the Sharks prepare for another squad overhaul following a frustrating, injury-hit campaign.

“It’s important for us to send the guys off properly,” Pietersen said. “We want to put in a good performance for them and give the fans something to remember from our last game.”

But beyond the result, much of Saturday’s focus at Kings Park will fall on saying goodbye — particularly to Kolisi, whose presence and leadership left a lasting mark during his second spell in Durban.