Sharks No 8 Sikhumbuzo Notshe was the standout South African player in the fifth round of the Vodacom Super Rugby tournament, writes JON CARDINELLI.

The Sharks have won four of their first five games. They recently beat the Reds in Brisbane to complete their Australasian tour with a campaign-boosting haul of three wins from four matches.

Much has been made about the Sharks’ new-found ability to transition from defence to attack. Notshe’s vision, speed and silky handling skills have certainly amplified the team’s potency on the counter-attack.

WATCH: Notshe’s try assist against the Reds

The clip above highlights the threat of the versatile No 8. Notshe sees the space on the right-hand side and cuts back inside. He accelerates past several defenders, and then sets up Madosh Tambwe for a simple run-in.

Notshe also made an impact on defence in Brisbane. The No 8 finished the contest with 10 tackles (none missed) and one turnover.

COLUMN: New mindset driving Sharks revolution

Notshe is the third Shark to be named SA Player of the Week in five rounds.

Photo: Steve Haag Sports/Hollywoodbets