AJ to stay

Good news for the Sharks is that influential flank AJ Venter has re-signed with the Sharks until the conclusion of the 2008 Vodacom Super 14.

A veteran of eight seasons with the Sharks stretching back from 2000 when he signed from the Lions, and with 84 Super rugby and 48 Currie Cup caps for the Sharks, he has a wealth of experience, and his leadership has been a major factor.

His role especially in the 2007 Vodacom Super 14 campaign when the Sharks finished the round stages in first position, and only narrowly lost in the final to the Bulls at The Absa Stadium Durban was extremely valuable, to the extent that he played in 14 of the 15 Sharks’ matches of the tournament.

He also joined a select group of centurions, taking his overall tally of Super Rugby caps to 103. His leadership also saw him captaining the Sharks in the seven matches he played in the 2006 Absa Currie Cup season.

He has represented the Springboks in 25 Tests having made his debut against Wales in 2000 and his international career includes winning the Tri-Nations in 2004. He has played in Tests every year since 2000, aside from 2005, and is a part of Jake White’s plans for 2007 which include the Rugby World Cup.

In terms of continuity as the Sharks look to go one better in next year’s Vodacom Super 14, the vast experience that Venter brings to the table cannot be taken for granted, and he certainly will be looking to add further depth next year.

“I did plan to retire at the end of this Super 14,” said AJ, “but the lure of success with the Sharks is just to great to pass up. Like everyone else, I was deeply disappointed that we lost in the final, when we really were the form team.”

His contract is for the next 12 months, including the Currie Cup. “The most important thing is for me to get into training, get fit and involved for the Currie Cup. We have put the Super 14 behind us and I am now concentrating on the Currie Cup, taking it one goal at a time. We have a brilliant team and I’m looking forward to being a part of the setup.

“There are some good players in the team, and the primary goal is to be successful.”

Sharks (Pty) Ltd CEO Brian van Zyl added that he was thrilled that AJ would be remaining with the Sharks. “It is a big signing for us to keep AJ on for a further year,” he said. “He really has been a mainstay in our side, and brings that unique quality of experience that simply cannot be bought. We look forward to having him around, both as a player and as a leader, and believe that he adds positively to the team dynamic.”
 
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