WATCH | Eben Etzebeth's cheeky try against Harlequins shows huge rugby IQ

Eben Etzebeth showed in the Sharks' defeat to Harlequins that he's not merely an enforcer.

The legendary Springbok lock scored a try in the first half that brilliantly illustrated how some teams have started to exploit English teams' penchant for setting up so-called caterpillar rucks.

What that entails is placing a two players behind each other at the breakdown, which effectively lengthens the off-side line for the defence and is predominantly used for box kicks because the scrumhalf is under less pressure from a creeping tackler.

However, Tony Spreadbury, head of match officials at European Professional Club Rugby, a few weeks back had briefed teams and referees that there would be a clampdown on players who don't bind properly at caterpillar rucks.

And Etzebeth's cheeky score illustrated that directive perfectly.

???? @EbenEtzebeth does not fear caterpillars!He's disrupted a few in the first half, and now gets his hands on the ball and races to the line.Incredible poaching from the Springbok ??#HeinekenChampionsCup | @SharksRugby pic.twitter.com/ljhuqpOvT8

As seen in the footage, Quins prop Joe Marler lost his bind when the Sharks tried to counter-shove, his shoulder consequently disengaging and merely his hand "bound".

Under the new directive, that means the ball is out and Etzebeth surged for the line.

A brilliant piece of rugby IQ.

The Sharks' loss didn't prevent them from securing a home playoff in the Champions Cup's round of 16.