Springboks and Sharks star Eben Etzebeth has fuelled suspicions he may be back on water boy duty in the latter’s game against Exeter this weekend.
The highest-capped national player had rugby fans amused with his squad “demotion” against the Stormers last weekend. According to Sharks coach John Plumtree, the towering star was placed on “rest” following a tough Bok test series in recent weeks.
EBEN ETZEBETH TO PLAY WATER BOY AGAIN?
On social media, the Sharks fuelled suspicion that Eben Etzebeth may be back on his water boy duties.
On Saturday, 7 December, the Durban club will play English team Exeter on home ground at Kings Park Stadium.
In pictures posted on Instagram of a training session this week, various players, including Siya Kolisi, Ox Nche, Aphelele Fassie, Bongi Mbonambi, and many more, were seen hitting the pitch.
However, Eben – who has held the title of Sharks captain – was seen chilling in a golf cart. Besie him was a pack of water bottles he was likely lugging around to give players.
Eben also did not sport his training gear but simply a branded T-shirt and shorts.
According to Sharks coach John Plumtree, Eben Etzebeth was a “little bit broken” following a touch Springbok test series.
However, Eben, the 33-year-old, looked as fierce as ever in clips from the match.
Sporting an earpiece – no doubt to relay messages from the coach – Eben was seen pacing up and down the field.
“Most capped water boy this side of the pitch,” the Sharks posted on their TikTok account.
@sharksrugby Most capped water boy this on the side of the pitch 😤😤😤 #fyp #sportsontiktok #eben #rugby #waterboy @THIRSTI ♬ original sound – Leinster Rugby
RUGBY STARS WHO WERE ALSO ‘DEMOTED’
It’s not uncommon for rugby players to swap their boots for bottles as water boys. In fact, many believe it is a tactical move, as the water boy – in this case, Eben Etzebeth – is able to pass on messages between players and the coach and vice versa.
In 2022, Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus – then director of SA Rugby – made headlines after he was banned from being a water boy during test matches.
At the time, World Rugby said in a statement that teams would be “permitted up to two dedicated water carriers”. However, “it cannot be a Director of Rugby or Head Coach.”
Images via Instagram:
@sharksrugby
In an Instagram post by SuperSport Rugby, it was revealed that many prominent players, such as Siya Kolisi, Jordie Barrett, Dan Carter, Pat Lambie, and Owen Farrell, had taken on the water boy duties.
IS EBEN ETZEBETH’S WATER BOY DUTIES A STRATEGIC MOVE?
Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article or by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
You can also follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest news.
