Ernst van Rhyn named Sale Sharks captain

Sale Sharks Director of Rugby Alex Sanderson has named Ernst van Rhyn as the club’s captain for the 2025–26 season.

He succeeds Ben Curry, who had captained the team for the past two years.

Van Rhyn signed a new contract extension in recent months, stretching his stay at Sharks until 2029. Since joining from the Stormers two seasons ago, he has made 47 appearances for the club, including all 18 Gallagher Premiership fixtures in 2024-25.

‘Ernie’ has gained recognition in the Premiership for his tackling. He featured among the top performers in dominant tackles last season, underlining his defensive strength in the Shark pack.

Van Rhyn said being chosen as captain is a “huge privilege” and emphasised his willingness to learn from previous leaders like Ben Curry, George Ford, and Rob du Preez. He pledged to lead by example and support his teammates’ confidence.

“Over the past two years I’ve really enjoyed learning from some of the amazing leaders we’ve got at the club – guys like Ben Curry, George Ford, Rob du Preez and others are fantastic leaders and I’ve tried to take bits from each of them," he told the club's official website.

“But it’s also important for me to keep doing what I’m doing because that’s what has got me to this point. I know this role brings more responsibility, but I feel like I’m ready for that.

“I pride myself on my ability to lead by example and I know I need to keep on improving my own personal game and working hard as a player.

“I want to be a calming presence for the team, and I want to give the players around me confidence. I can’t wait to get going on Thursday.”