Bismarck du Plessis won his battle with Tatafu Polota-Nau at Kings Park on Saturday, writes MARK KEOHANE.

This was among Du Plessis' most impressive performances as captain and it was a very one-sided hooker-on-hooker contest.

Du Plessis was prominent as player and captain. His leadership was impressive and he was at the heart of most things Sharks, be it attacking, defending or talking. His opposite number was anonymous.

The contest, because of the constant niggle and off-the-ball play from the Waratahs, threatened to turn ugly but Du Plessis was responsible for keeping his cool and influencing the approach of his team-mates.

Du Plessis wins this duel emphatically.

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