ZIMBABWE may be yet to register a victory at the Under-18 Coca Cola Craven Week underway in Middleburg, but this has not stopped the team’s skipper Stephen Bhasera from attracting interest from a number of several top unions in South Africa.
DANIEL NHAKANISO IN MIDDELBURG, SOUTH AFRICA
The 18 year old Falcon College rugby star has been one of the standout players for the Old Mutual Young Sables, leading his charges from the front in both matches.
During the match against Griquas Country Districts, the 1, 81m and 115kg tight head prop Bhasera was in fine form, showing off superb ball carrying abilities on his way to crashing over for the opening try for the Young Sables.
His strong performance did not go unnoticed as he earned the admiration of many, with some commentators even tipping him as the ‘Beast’ (Zimbabwe-born Springboks and Sharks prop Tendai Mtawarira).
Bhasera, who has represented Zimbabwe at the annual Craven Week tournament from the Under-13 and Under-16 from 2004 before captaining this year’s Under-18 squad, however took the compliments in his stride.
“I’m very honoured to be compared to a top player such as the Beast at this stage,” the Falcon College head boy said yesterday.
“He’s such an icon, who players all over the world look up to. However I believe I’ve got a long way to go in terms of my development as a rugby player but I am hoping that one day I’ll be able to play professional ruby and make a living out of the sport I love.
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Captaining the national under-18 team here is a good start and I’m very honoured to be leading the team. Despite the results I am proud of what the guys have achieved and I think they’ve managed to make the nation proud.”
Bhasera also revealed that there had been several inquiries about his services from several top rugby union teams and bursary offers from several universities around South Africa.
“There have been a few enquiries about my services. I’ve been fortunate to have been offered bursaries here and there. I’ve also talked with a few unions like the Sharks, the Cheetahs and the Lions so we will see what the future holds for me,” Bhasera said.
Old Mutual Young Sables coach Goodwin Murambiwa was also full of praises for Bhasera, saying he has the potential to become a top player at senior level.
“He’s a very big boy if he keeps on doing the basics right he’s gonna go far. His advantage is that he’s got the right size and the right frame, which is important.
Being compared to such a top player like the Beast should humble him. I don’t think it will get to him because he’s got a very good head on his shoulders,” said Murambiwa.
