- Springbok assistant coach Deon Davids says Siya Kolisi remains a bedrock of the national team's imposing pack of forwards.
- The Bok skipper has been solid rather than spectacular for the Sharks after being gradually introduced to his new side's style of play as well as conditioning him effectively.
- Davids says he's been in constant communication with Kolisi over his technical game and has gradually improved as his game-time increased.
Springbok assistant Deon Davids has reiterated the importance of Siya Kolisi to the national team's cause, not just in terms of leadership but also pedigree.
It's been a distinct case of easy-does-it for the South Africa skipper, who's been solid without being spectacular since commencing his new chapter at the Sharks in February.
Last weekend's performance against the Bulls was an appropriate example.
Kolisi was on hand to round off a brilliant attacking move to score the Sharks' second try and completed all eight of his tackes, but with Thembelani Bholi and a particularly dynamic Phepsi Buthelezi doing the bulk of ball-carrying duties, he was perceived to have a quiet outing.
"Siya is a core part of our pack," Davids said on Monday from Bloemfontein, where the Springbok setup has swelled significantly with the addition of local- and France-based players joining up.
"It's just been fantastic already having him present in the first few sessions already. He just brings so much experience."
However, that doesn't mean the World Cup-winning flanker and the national coaching staff haven't been oblivious to the fact that there's still significant room for improvement.
"Siya, I and other forwards have been in regular conversations on a lot of fundamentals and technical stuff in terms of their on-field performances over the past few competitions," said Davids, whose official portfolio is forwards coach.
And, by all accounts, there probably wouldn't be too much complaining if the steady groundwork at Kings Park surges into a rampaging Kolisi at the most opportune time ... against the British & Irish Lions.
"There's definitely been value in Siya coming back and playing for the Sharks over the past weeks," said Davids.
"There's been a clear improvement (in his overall form) and the way he performs with the ball and, especially, off the ball."
Meanwhile, no formal communication was forthcoming on Duane Vermeulen's recovery prognosis following ankle surgery last week.
"Our medical staff are in constant contact with clubs and franchises in terms of where players are. We've received feedback, but the specifics are being handled by the medical team," said Davids.