Sharks wing Odwa Ndungane will close the curtain on a professional career spanning 18 years at the end of the 2017 rugby season.
Odwa, twin brother of Akona, has played almost 250 times for the Sharks in Super Rugby and Currie Cup since joining from the Bulls in 2005. He has also won nine Test caps for the Springboks.
Having arrived in Durban in 2005, he soon became an integral part of the team and over the years words such as “Mr. Dependable”, mentor and stalwart have been used to describe this legend of Sharks rugby.
"His strong leadership qualities and the positive influence that he has had on the young players around him are commendable. There is no greater tribute than one given by your teammates, opposition and by the fans and Odwa is deserving of all the praise and acknowledgement," read a statement from the Sharks.
This Saturday, the Sharks will play their final pool game of the Currie Cup tournament against Western Province at Kings Park, ahead of the semi-final taking place next week. The match on Saturday will be a tribute match to Ndungane in celebration of his career and his invaluable contribution to Sharks rugby.
Commenting on the decision to honour Ndungane, the Sharks head coach Robert du Preez said: “Odwa Ndungane epitomises what it means to be a professional rugby player and over the years his dedication, loyalty and contribution to the team remained unwavering.
“It is fitting that we honour a player that has given so much to the game and those around him with a tribute match that will highlight his tremendous career.
“We encourage our fans to come through on Saturday to celebrate and acknowledge the massive impact he has made during his distinguished career.”
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