Tony Jantjies gets big break with Bulls

29 June 2017 - 07:28 By MAHLATSE MPHAHLELE
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Bulls flyhalf Tony Jantjies. File photo.
Bulls flyhalf Tony Jantjies. File photo.
Image: CARL FOURIE/GALLO IMAGES

The Bulls have handed Tony Jantjies, the younger brother of Springbok star Elton, his first start in tomorrow's Super Rugby clash against the Sharks at Kings Park Stadium in Durban.

Jantjies, 23, who has made three consecutive appearances from the bench, was picked ahead of Tiaan Schoeman at flyhalf.

"I have been telling Tony for the past three games that I am going to put him on the bench and give him some game time," said Bulls coach Nollis Marais.

"He has been working very hard behind the scenes. With Tiaan [Schoeman] leaving us and Handré Pollard out with an injury, this is a good time to give him the opportunity to play at this level.

"It is a good opportunity for him to be tested in a big game against the Sharks.

"If he is going to be our flyhalf during the Currie Cup then he must be given in the exposure now so that he gains in confidence."

Marais has also shown faith in winger Kefentse Mahlo and prop Conraad van Vuuren by handing them their first starts as part of changes to the midfield for the trip to the coast.

"Kefentse and I have come a long way since the junior sides," Marais said of Mahlo.

"He has never got the opportunity to play at the top level and I have decided to give him a chance because I believe he is one for the future."

In the pack, Nick de Jager has been promoted off the bench and will start at No8 in place of injured Hanro Liebenberg.

Renaldo Bothma and Shaun Adendorff are on the bench as looseforward cover.

- TimesLIVE

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