Giliomee set for Bulls move after Sharks breakthrough

Luan Giliomee has been described as an “exceptional talent” as the 20-year-old prepares for a move to the Bulls following an impressive start to the United Rugby Championship season.

Simon Thomas reports for Planet Rugby that the Junior Springbok, who helped South Africa win the World Junior Championship in Georgia in July, scored twice and was named player of the match as the Sharks beat the Ospreys 41-24 in Durban.

Giliomee’s first try came after he broke from inside his own half, beating four defenders with a series of side-steps before crossing the line.

The Western Cape product, whose primary position is fly-half but who played at full-back against the Ospreys, is expected to join the Bulls in the coming weeks as part of a swap deal involving Sharks hooker Esethu Mnebelele.

Saturday’s home fixture against URC champions Leinster could therefore be Giliomee’s final appearance for the Sharks.

Head coach JP Pietersen praised the youngster’s understanding of the game, pace, kicking ability and awareness of space after the Ospreys victory.

Giliomee, meanwhile, said the Sharks’ young squad was confident in its ability and credited the Kings Park supporters for motivating the team.

The victory was a landmark one for the Sharks, who had never previously won their opening URC fixture. Pietersen also praised debutant centre Janco Purchase, who was brought into the starting line-up shortly before kick-off after Murray Koster suffered a back injury.

The Sharks handed six players their debuts, including Stormers loanee Suleiman Hartzenberg.