Western Province coach Labeeb Levy says Riley Norton’s remarkable work rate could be one of their weapons in Friday night’s Currie Cup basement battle against the Sharks in Durban.

The Junior Boks’ World Rugby U20 Championship-winning captain, who’s promise has earned him a call-up to the Stormers’ 55-man squad for the Vodacom URC, has already shown his endurance at senior level. Norton went the full 80 minutes against the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein, carrying strongly right until the final whistle.

“He’s got good lungs and just has the ability to keep going,” Levy said. “He played the full 80 last week and in the last 10 minutes he was carrying prominently.”

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Levy believes Norton’s energy, combined with his natural leadership, makes him a future captain for both Province and the Stormers.

“It’s pretty obvious. He will become an integral part of the union at multiple levels,” Levy explained.

“He’s not yet the finished product – let’s get that clear – but he’s like a sponge, just takes everything in. He’s very positive with the team, with the players, with the coaches. He’s a natural leader and it’s obvious that he’s going to be a Stormers and Western Province captain … and even beyond that. There’s no doubt about that.”

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Norton will line up in a youthful but exciting loose trio with Louw Nel and Paul de Villiers in Durban, a combination Levy believes could wrestle the upper hand at Kings Park.

“I think we can still be a bit better at the breakdown,” Levy added. “Last week we were better in terms of reaction to clean and breakdown speed which gave us good flow to our game.

“With someone like Paul in your team, there will be slow ball for the opposition, a few turnovers or penalties.

“We’re blessed with three youngsters and the experience they get here will be invaluable. I won’t be surprised if Riley plays URC this season.”

Photo: Johan Pretorius/Gallo Images