Sharks assistant coach Dick Muir says there have been encouraging signs of versatile back Curwin Bosch rediscovering his confidence, writes CRAIG LEWIS.

Largely as it has been for the Sharks in 2018, this season has been filled with ups and downs for Bosch, who started in the one-off Test against Wales this past June, before later being released from the national squad.

Upon his return to the Sharks, the talented 21-year-old has continued to play primarily at fullback, where his long kicking game has been integral to the team’s cause.

Although Bosch made his first start of the year at flyhalf in the win over Griquas last weekend, it is expected that he will return to fullback for this Saturday’s semi-final encounter against the Golden Lions, with Rob du Preez likely to reclaim the No 10 jersey.

Muir said he had been encouraged by the way Bosch and Du Preez dovetailed as a 10-12 combination, but suggested that they would make a ‘horses for courses’ selection as they get set to face a strengthened Lions side this Saturday.

‘It’s good to see what these players can offer in different circumstances. It’s also really good for the development of both Rob and Curwin, who are both different, but very talented players.

‘In recent weeks, we’ve also had a few players returning from injury, which is great from a team perspective, but it has made it quite difficult from a selection point of view.’

Should Bosch shift to fullback, it means another talented youngster in Aphelele Fassi may have to revert to the bench if the Sharks opt to retain S’bu Nkosi and Lwazi Mvovo on the wings.

‘Fassi has been outstanding this season, and has a really level head on his shoulders,’ Muir commented. ‘He is someone who just oozes talent, and I think he’s going to be around for a long time.

‘What I can say about Curwin is that he’s really put in work to his all-round game, and confidence plays a big part for any player. Only he can say how he’s feeling in that regard, but we’ve been very pleased with what we’ve seen, and the work he’s put in.

‘He’s a very special player and he has youth on his side. Curwin is learning from every outing, and I believe he is one of the top talents in the country.’

Other team changes may see Thomas du Toit and Jean-Luc du Preez make a return to the starting lineup, while one would imagine that regular captain Chiliboy Ralepelle will reclaim the No 2 jersey.

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Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images