Sam Cane is stepping into the unknown against Vincent Tshituka on Saturday, but the former All Blacks skipper is relishing the prospect of testing himself against the Springbok rookie.
The seasoned Cane – named at No 7 for the Barbarians this week – concedes he hasn’t seen much of Tshituka, who will run out on debut in the world champions’ 2025 season opener at Cape Town Stadium.
Tshituka starts at blindside flanker in a powerful back row with No 8 Jean-Luc du Preez and World Cup winner Marco van Staden, a late injury replacement for Siya Kolisi.
ICYMI: Tshituka on his ticket to join Bok heroes
Since joining the Sharks from the Lions in 2022, Tshituka has become a key member of their pack with his powerful carries and breakdown prowess, helping John Plumtree’s men win the 2023-24 EPCR Challenge Cup before leading them to Currie Cup glory last year.
Tshituka’s maiden bow in the green and gold launches what could be an extended international career, with Tests against Italy and Georgia following in July, and Cane expects a big impact from the 26-year-old.
Addressing the media on Thursday, the Kiwi great said he’s heard glowing reports from his teammates, who describe Tshituka as explosive and powerful, but adds the Baa Baas haven’t watched much footage on the DRC-born forward.
ALSO: Rassie not someone who likes to lose – Deans
“It’s been hard not being a part of playing Super Rugby anymore, with [myself] playing in Japan,” said Cane, who plays with Bok speedster Cheslin Kolbe at Tokyo Sungoliath in Japan.
A member of New Zealand’s World Cup-winning squad in 2015, the 33-year-old flanker made his Test debut in 2012 and finished his international career with 104 caps.
“For one, with South Africa not being involved in Super Rugby [anymore], I’ve had limited opportunity to see him [Tshituka],” he added.
“I’ve heard a wee bit about him through the boys that have been playing in the United Rugby Championship. They said he is a promising player who is quite explosive and powerful.
“There are no laptops or footage here. We spent minimal time this week looking at the opposition. We’ve just been focusing on coming together as a team.
“So I don’t know a lot about him, but I’m still excited to go up against him.”
Photo: Grant Pitcher/Gallo Images
