5 talking points | Champions Cup Round 3: Sharks' Boks make a world of difference

One-way traffic for Bok-laden Sharks

After playing a B-team against Connacht the previous week, the Sharks loaded their team with Springboks for the clash against Bordeaux-Begles at Kings Park.

It made the world of difference as the Sharks completely outclassed their French opponents in a five-try romp.

Bok scrumhalf Jaden Hendrikse was the most industrious Shark on the park as he bagged a brace of tries.

It's clear that there's quite a big gulf in class between the Sharks' first and second stringers.

The post-game statistics displayed the Sharks' dominance against Bordeaux.

The Sharks enjoyed 54% possession and 56% territory; gained a whopping 629m on attack compared to Bordeaux's 213m; made 105 carries to 81; beat 22 defenders to 12; made 9 clean break to 3; and completed 14 offloads in tackles to the 5 of Bordeaux.

The French side also racked up four yellow cards, and given these statistics, the Sharks should ask themselves how they didn't win by a greater margin.

Simelane's best Bulls outing

Wandisile Simelane produced arguably his best outing in a Bulls jersey in their win over Exeter Chiefs at Loftus Versfeld.

The 24-year-old, who joined the Bulls from the Lions last year, produced an energetic performance. He made 129 running metres, which included two line breaks and a brace of tries.

His first try was particularly spectacular when he showed great football skills to dot down under the posts.

As skills coach Chris Rossouw reiterated afterwards, the Bulls look content on forming Simelane into a utility back but this writer reckons outside centre is his best position.

Petition to sign Wandisile Simelane up to @BafanaBafana ?Great football skills from the @BlueBullsRugby 1??3?? who then scores after a somewhat favourable bounce