Golden Lions flank James Venter says their clash with the Sharks offers a chance for the team to bounce back from their heavy loss against Western Province. DYLAN JACK reports.

For Venter, the match in Durban will be something of a homecoming as the Glenwood graduate returns to the city.

‘Being schooled at Glenwood was great,’ Venter told SARugbymag.co.za. ‘It is a very professional, great rugby school. It gave me that love for the game. The professionalism of the school helped me with the jump to the Lions.

‘The Lions are one of the leading teams in the world and with that comes world-class competition. There is no better way to improve yourself than by training and learning from the best. It’s been great to get this opportunity.’

The 22-year-old has formed a dangerous loose trio with fellow youngsters in No 8 Hacjivah Dayimani and blindsider Len Massyn. All three showcased their talents by getting on to the scoresheet against Province.

‘The balance at the moment is really good,’ Venter said. ‘We are a young loose trio with a lot to learn and the more we play and develop together the more we will complement one another.’

Venter is looking forward to the challenge of taking on a Sharks pack which will likely include Springboks in Dan du Preez, Akker van der Merwe, Chiliboy Ralepelle and Thomas du Toit.

‘The Sharks match is a massive game for us,’ he said. ‘It will be great to gain some momentum again with a good win and there no better place to do it than at Kings Park.

‘They are a good team but regardless of who we playing against, we have our principles. We didn’t tick our boxes against Western Province so there is no better time than this weekend to get back on track.’

Photo: Gordon Arons/Gallo Images