Ndungane comfortable at fullback

The Springbok wing will control the game from the back, away from his usual spot on the wing. At 34-years-old, Ndungane is one of the most experienced players in the side and admitted he enjoys playing fullback.

"It's a position I've enjoyed in the past and whenever I get the opportunity to play at 15 I always enjoy it. It is quite different from playing wing, you get involved in the game much more easily and you have a better view from the back to see where the space is," Ndungane said.

A lot has been made of the young make-up of the Sharks side this year and the few experienced players that were not called up for Springbok duty are proving to be crucial in getting the younger players up to speed. In that regard, Ndungane is relishing helping S'bura Sithole and Wandile Mjekevu this season.

"For me, it's quite exciting the prospects we have in S'bura and Wandile on the wings. They've got lots of energy and big potential so I'm excited to see what the future holds for them."

Sharks coach Gary Gold whistled to the same tune, highlighting Ndungane's experience and the role he plays in organising the back three.

"He's a young man with an old man's head," Gold joked.

"He brings us a lot of calmness at the back and his decision-making is outstanding. The reason Odwa is a Springbok and in my opinion a legend of the game is because his decision-making is so good."

"It's fantastic for him to be communicating with Wandile and S'bura, that's how wings on strings works and you need a calm head at the back. I feel Odwa is playing great rugby right now and we need him to be in the most influential position as possible," Gold said.

The Sharks face the Lions at 14h30 on Saturday.

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(File Photo: Gallo Images)