The Bulls' and the Sharks' early Vodacom Super 14 performances have been encouraging and it is pleasing to see them unbeaten after three matches and setting the pace at the head of the table.
Both teams have put in mixed performances in getting their victories but in a competition as tough as the Super 14 some victories will be hard-earned and not pretty.
The Bulls' win over the Blues was possibly the most complete performance of the season. They created chances which came off and they had the Blues under the whip from the word go.
Some might consider the Sharks lucky to have got a win over the Chiefs in Hamilton but the tries they created were out of the top drawer. The win showed just how effective a team can be if they kick with intelligence and precision.
Whilst the Bulls and Sharks are well-placed at the moment, our other sides have struggled at times and been unfortunate at others.
The Stormers played most of the rugby against the Blues but let chances go begging. With the talent they have at their disposal they will bounce back. The Lions have also shown improvement this season and I expect them to get back on track. The Cheetahs were unlucky in their opening two matches and are currently on a very tough tour. A good home run will help their cause greatly.
From my point of view as Springbok coach it is pleasing to see most of our core squad players performing, even if their teams are not winning. The guys are clearly responding to the challenge of earning places in the squad to face the British and Irish Lions in June and July
I have spent some time “Lion watching” in the past weeks by keeping a close eye on the Six Nations. It is very evident the players in the four Home Union teams have raised their games as they bid to make the trip of a lifetime.
France's defeat of Wales at the weekend was significant and, whilst the bulk of the Lions squad will probably be Welsh and Irish, I will be surprised if Ian McGeechan is close to finalizing his squad. The final Six Nations match between Wales and Ireland could well decide the title as well as serve as a final trial for selection.
I am presently in Dubai where the Springbok Sevens team is getting ready to take part in the IRB Sevens World Cup. The team can make history for our country if they can win the title, which will make South Africa holders of two World Cups. Now wouldn't that be something!
Paul Treu has done a great job with the team but they will have to work hard for success against some tough opponents.
Our women's team is also here for their World Cup, which will add to the excitement.
Good luck to both of them.
