Sharks coach Sean Everitt says there is great excitement to see what Siya Kolisi can produce against the Stormers in this Friday’s Rainbow Cup opener.

In a high-profile move earlier this year, Kolisi broke ranks with the Stormers and Western Province to join the Sharks.

The Springbok captain and the Durban-based team have both recently become affiliated with renowned rapper Jay-Z’s sports agency, Roc Nation.

Commenting on Kolisi’s early days at the Sharks, Everitt said: ‘Siya had a tough pre-season with us — but he hung in, and then when we played him against the Bulls [in the final Preparation Series game] he made some telling contributions.’

The Sharks boss confirmed that Kolisi is in line for selection against his former team, the Stormers, in this coming weekend’s Rainbow Cup match at Cape Town Stadium.

‘We are really looking forward to seeing what he can deliver against the Stormers.’

Everitt then moved to laud Kolisi’s attitude and the impact he is making on the younger generation of Sharks players.

‘All-round, Siya has been amazing for us,’ Everitt added.

‘Without instruction from anyone, he has gone about mentoring the youngsters, and they really look up to him. He is not the captain but in a quiet way he has been showing leadership and his teammates respond.’

Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images