{
  "id": 6442916,
  "title": "Sharks’ Buthelezi praises Mathie impact ahead of URC season",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/09/sharks-buthelezi-praises-mathie-impact-ahead-of-urc-season",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-09T16:45:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "IOL",
    "slug": "iol",
    "url": "https://iol.co.za/sport/rugby/urc/2026-09-09-sharks-buthelezi-praises-mathie-impact-ahead-of-urc-season/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Phepsi Buthelezi is optimistic about the impact former Durban High School coach Scott Mathie will bring to the Sharks as they prepare for the upcoming United Rugby Championship season. Mathie, who spent three years with Edinburgh, has joined the coaching staff under JP Pietersen and has been assigned to enhance the Sharks' attacking fluidity and unpredictability. Buthelezi, who coached Mathie during his final years at DHS, sees this as a full-circle moment. He believes Mathie has already made an impact during the extensive pre-season and expects the Sharks' supporters to witness a more adventurous approach. This shift is crucial for the Sharks, who failed to reach the URC quarter-finals last season and are aiming to improve their consistency and attacking efficiency. Buthelezi attributes the progress to one of the best pre-seasons in recent years. The Sharks will put their preparations to the test against the Lions at Ellis Park, following a 66-0 victory over South Western Districts in George. Buthelezi highlights the advantage of keeping the URC squad together, allowing the players to focus on Pietersen's game plan without disruptions. Pietersen's full pre-season after taking over midway through last season has also contributed to the team's progress. The Sharks have benefited from a team camp near Hluhluwe, which Buthelezi believes has strengthened the connections within the squad. Former All Blacks great Ma’a Nonu has also played a significant role in the Sharks environment, working closely with young players. For Buthelezi, Nonu's humility and work ethic have particularly impressed him. The Sharks now have two home games to kick off their URC campaign, hosting the Ospreys at Kings Park and welcoming Leinster. Buthelezi emphasizes the significance of these first two home games, stating that they are crucial for the Sharks. They are determined to win these games and rely on the support of the people of Durban.",
  "summary": "Phepsi Buthelezi says former DHS coach Scott Mathie is shaking up the Sharks' attack.",
  "key_points": [
    "Former DHS coach Scott Mathie joins Sharks coaching staff.",
    "Buthelezi praises Mathie's impact during pre-season.",
    "Sharks aim to improve consistency and attacking efficiency for URC season."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}