Sharks loose forward Manu Tshituka will make his SA 'A' debut against Zimbabwe at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha on Saturday, in what he describes as a landmark moment following an 18-month citizenship journey that has transformed both his and brother Vincent's international prospects.
The Tshituka brothers, who emigrated from the Democratic Republic of Congo two decades ago, spent years unable to represent South Africa due to citizenship complications. That changed last year when both were granted SA citizenship — Vincent going on to earn his Springbok cap against the Barbarians in Cape Town and subsequently featuring against Italy in the mid-year Tests, while Manu continued building his case through consistent URC performances for the Sharks before receiving an alignment camp invitation.
"It's a massive honour and privilege for myself and my brother," Manu said. "18 months ago, we didn't even think it was possible to be in this environment, so we are super grateful and excited."
He lines up in a loose trio alongside Lions flank Batho Hlekani and Sharks teammate Phepsi Buthelezi. While the match serves as a curtain raiser to the Springboks' clash with the Barbarians, Tshituka is clear-eyed about its significance for his own trajectory.
"I definitely believe with the right amount of hard work and dedication, it's possible," he said of a potential Springbok call-up, though he was careful not to look too far ahead. "I will stay in the moment and try to be present and take the opportunity I have this weekend and see what happens."
Tshituka says he has drawn on Vincent's experience in the camp environment, as well as guidance from Kolisi and other senior loose forwards in the squad.