Sharks go with out a number of Springboks for Lions derby

The Sharks will miss most of their Springboks, who’re on mandated go away, once they tackle the Lions of their United Rugby Championship derby at Ellis Park on Saturday (kick-off 2pm).

Former Lions unfastened ahead Vincent Tshituka captains the Sharks within the absence of André Esterhuizen, with former captain Siya Kolisi additionally on go away.

Ought to the Sharks win, they may safe the URC’s South African defend with one match to spare.

They enter on good type, with 5 wins in seven matches since JP Pietersen took over as coach. He was made everlasting this week, whereas different strategic appointments have been made within the teaching employees.

Regardless of the absences of a number of Springboks, the squad retains important expertise all through the match-day 23, notably among the many replacements, the place three Springboks – Vincent Koch, Phepsi Buthelezi and Jordan Hendrikse add invaluable impression and composure.

The Durban union are additionally on a mission to climb into the highest eight of the URC desk. A return of 4 or 5 log factors towards the Lions would see the Sharks leapfrog the eighth-placed Ospreys into play-off competition.

The Lions are tied on factors with the Sharks, however are one place under at tenth on account of factors distinction. They may equally be out for a win as they’ve by no means completed the competitors within the high eight.

Sharks beginning XV

Phatu Ganyane

Fez Mbatha

Hanro Jacobs

Corne Rahl

Jason Jenkins

Tino Mavesere

Vincent Tshituka (C)

Thomas Dyer

Jaden Hendrikse

Siya Masuku

Jaco Williams

Jurenzo Julius

Francois Venter

Edwill van der Merwe

Aphelele Fassi

Replacements

Eduan Swart

Cameron Dawson

Vincent Koch

Emile van Heerden

Phepsi Buthelezi

Ross Braude

Jordan Hendrikse

Yaw Penxe

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