If you follow South African rugby, you know the Sharks are always looking for a spark in the number 10 jersey. The fly‑half links the forwards with the backs, decides when to kick, and often calls the plays that break a defensive line. With the 2025 season in full swing, fans are buzzing about who’s holding the reins and how the role is evolving.
In the past few weeks the Sharks have rotated a few names in the fly‑half slot. Injuries, form slumps, and tactical tweaks have forced coach direction to experiment. That means the match‑day program can look different from week to week, and the excitement stays high. Below we break down why the fly‑half seat matters for the Sharks, and which players are making an impact right now.
The fly‑half is the team’s on‑field general. He decides whether to launch a quick pass, swing the ball wide, or kick for territory. For the Sharks, a strong fly‑half can turn a solid defensive set into a scoring chance in seconds. When the team’s backline is clicking, a good decision from number 10 can keep the opposition on the back foot for the entire half.
Another big part of the role is game management. The Sharks often dominate the breakdown, but they need someone who can read the tempo and pick the right moments to go for a drop goal or a tactical kick. This keeps the scoreboard ticking and forces opponents to play under pressure. In a competition as tight as the United Rugby Championship, those small edges add up.
Finally, consistency at fly‑half builds confidence across the squad. When the backs know what to expect, they can focus on their own runs and defensive duties. That’s why the Sharks’ coaching staff keep a close eye on form, fitness, and the mental side of the game when selecting their number 10.
Right now, Jaden van der Merwe is the name most fans are hearing. The 24‑year‑old rose through the Sharks academy and earned his first start earlier this season. He combines a solid boot with an eye for creative passing. In the last three matches he’s averaged 12 points per game, mainly from penalties and a couple of well‑timed drop goals.
Another player getting minutes is Ruan Kohl. Known for his powerful kicking game, Kohl often steps in when the team needs territory. His ability to launch long, accurate kicks gives the Sharks a way to pin opponents inside their own 22‑meter line. That strategy has paid off in two recent wins, where the opposition struggled to get out of their half.
On the younger side, watch Luke Marais. The 20‑year‑old has been impressive in the Vodacom Cup and is now getting short bursts in the senior squad. He brings a fresh perspective, often opting for quick off‑loads that catch defenses off guard. While he still needs to bulk up for the physical demands, his instinctive play makes him a candidate for a permanent role.
Injury updates matter too. Veteran fly‑half Thabo Mokoena is still recovering from a shoulder strain. If he returns before the end of the season, expect a seasoned voice to guide the younger pair. His experience in high‑pressure games could be the difference in a tight semi‑final.
Overall, the Sharks’ fly‑half position is a mix of proven talent and rising stars. The coaching staff are likely to keep rotating until a clear first‑choice emerges. For fans, that means plenty of excitement and plenty of reasons to keep an eye on the jersey number 10 each weekend.
Whether you’re watching at the stadium, on TV, or catching the highlights online, pay attention to how the fly‑half manages the game’s flow. The kicks, the passes, and the decision‑making will tell you a lot about the Sharks’ chances in any match. Stay tuned, because the story of the Sharks fly‑half is still being written.
The United Rugby Championship kicks off with three headline clashes on September 26, 2025. The Stormers roll out a side led by captain Nel, the Sharks hand the fly‑half duties to Jaden, and the Bulls name Willie as a bench option. Full team sheets, tactical tweaks and early predictions are examined.
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