The Sharks will head to Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria for their second-round United Rugby Championship clash against the Bulls this Saturday.
Despite being without several international players, the Sharks’ squad depth has proven crucial. Coach John Plumtree has been able to name a strong team, packed with experience at this level.
Vincent Tshituka continues to lead the team in the absence of Springboks Eben Etzebeth and Siya Kolisi. Etzebeth is sidelined due to concussion symptoms from a head injury in early December, while Kolisi, along with scrumhalf Jaden Hendrikse, has been rested according to Springbok protocols.
SHARKS’ TEAM SELECTION
For the front row, Plumtree has selected props Ntuthuko Mchunu and Trevor Nyakane to join hooker Bongi Mbonambi. In the second row, Corne Rahl and Jason Jenkins will pair up, with Tino Mavesere and Phepsi Buthelezi joining Tshituka in the back row.
In a surprising move, Siya Masuku has been handed the No 10 jersey, which has resulted in Jordan Hendrikse moving to fullback. Masuku will partner with Springbok Grant Williams in the halfbacks. In the midfield, Lukhanyo Am will combine with Jurenzo Julius, while Hendrikse, Yaw Penxe, and Ethan Hooker will make up the back three.
The match kicks off at 5 pm on Saturday.
Sharks’ Starting XV:
- Ntuthuko Mchunu
- Bongi Mbonambi
- Trevor Nyakane
- Corne Rahl
- Jason Jenkins
- Tino Mavesere
- Phepsi Buthelezi
- Vincent Tshituka (c)
- Grant Williams
- Siya Masuku
- Ethan Hooker
- Lukhanyo Am
- Jurenzo Julius
- Yaw Penxe
- Jordan Hendrikse
Bench: 16. Ethan Bester
17. Ruan Dreyer
18. Hanro Jacobs
19. Lappies Labuschagne
20. Jannes Potgieter
21. Bradley Davids
22. Francois Venter
23. Jaco Williams
