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A tough, no-nonsense player who brings some mongrel to the game, looking to dominate the close exchanges, he accumulated over 130 caps for The Sharks after making his debut in 2005 as a 21 year old. He will look to build on his 52 Super Rugby appearances along with 79 in the Absa Currie Cup.
He also represented the Emerging Springboks in 2009, playing in the side that drew 13-all with the touring British and Irish Lion side.
Sharks coach John Plumtree has admitted to being very happy at Sykes’ decision to move back to Durban.
“Steven Sykes is coming back,” he confirmed. “As soon as I heard that he wanted to come back home, I was really interested. A player of his calibre is vital because of the experience he offers us, especially in this competition.”
While it in no way reflects on the depth in the second row, it adds quality, experience and one other crucial factor.
“We have some really nice young locks coming through, but Super Rugby is a really tough competition, a long one, and having his experience in the second row is going to be really valuable. It also adds a little more competition for places.”
Plumtree added that the type of player he is will complement the side nicely.
“He has that physical nature to his game and some of our younger locks are physical as well, but he gives us that experience that we need.
“Syksie has a number of campaigns under the belt and that is great for leadership in the pack.”
