Tshituka 'coming along' very well, says Whiteley as Sharks mull loosie cohesion

Sharks assistant coach Warren Whiteley said newly recruited loose forward Vincent Tshituka is coming along well for them.

Tshituka, who made the move from Johannesburg to Durban, hasn't cracked the Sharks' match-day 23 as head coach Sean Everitt has preferred Dylan Richardson, James Venter, and Phendulani 'Phepsi' Buthelezi as his starting loose forwards with Sikhumbuzo Notshe coming off the bench.

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That's some competition to deal with, but Whiteley said Tshituka has been training with them in Dublin as they prepare for their United Rugby Championship (URC) clash against Leinster on Saturday.

"Vince has been training with us and he's been looking good and strong," Whiteley said.

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"He had his first 15-on-15 session as he recovers from injury, so I'm pretty sure it won't be too long before he's back on the field." The composition of the Sharks' back-row has fallen under the radar, especially with their graft being admirable.

Richardson, who is a Scottish international who has chosen to stay at flank after early stints at hooker, has shown his value.

Venter has gone about his work quietly while Buthelezi's ball-carrying graft has been noticeable.

Notshe's experience has allowed the Sharks to see off games that could have been hairy if they didn't have experienced campaigners.

Their cohesion has been critical for the Sharks and Whiteley expects them to play a critical role against the Irish giants that have again started the tournament very well.

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"The most important thing here is