Sharks set to lose star prospect Giliomee to Bulls in swap deal after Player of the Match display

Luan Giliomee signed off his Sharks career in style on Saturday, scoring two tries and claiming the Player of the Match award in a 41-24 URC victory over the Ospreys in Durban — only to be confirmed as heading to the Vodacom Bulls in the coming weeks as part of a swap deal.

The 20-year-old’s first try was the standout moment of the match, as he sliced through from his own half, evading four defenders on a spectacular side-stepping run. Primarily a fly-half, Giliomee was operating at full-back and delivered a performance that left head coach JP Pietersen effusive in his praise.

“He’s an exceptional talent,” said the former Springboks winger. “You can see what he’s got. He understands the game, he understands space, he’s got speed and he’s got a kicking game too. So he’s an unbelievable talent. I am just grateful I have had time with him and we’ll still have him next week.”

Giliomee, a South African U20s, A and Sevens international, is set to move to the Bulls with hooker Esethu Mnebelele travelling in the opposite direction. His final appearance in a Sharks shirt could come this Saturday when they host URC champions Leinster at Kings Park.

Speaking after receiving his Player of the Match award, Giliomee remained focused on the team’s ambitions. “We wanted a nice start from the first game of the season,” he said. “We are a young squad, but we are very talented. We back ourselves and the coaches back us. We have got a big game at home to Leinster next weekend and we can’t wait.”

Pietersen also highlighted another 20-year-old who impressed on the day — debutant centre Janco Purchase, who was drafted into the starting XV at late notice after Murray Koster withdrew with a back injury. “We talk about Gilly, but we had Purchie here who did everything right, coming in at the last minute,” said the coach. “He’s a smart kid who wants it, and you can see from the performance he put in that he grabbed the opportunity with both hands.”

The victory was itself a landmark result, with Pietersen confirming it was the first time the Sharks had won their opening URC fixture. “I’m pleased with the performance and pleased to get a win at home,” he said. “If we win, I’ll be happy with four points. We got five.”