After missing some of their stars, but still getting a vital local derby win last weekend, the Sharks have been bolstered by the return of senior players as they gear up for the final SA derby of 2024 in the DHL Stadium on Saturday afternoon (5pm kick-off).
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— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) December 27, 2024
Read full team release article here https://t.co/64oqvBvhVj@Vodacom #URC #STOvSHA pic.twitter.com/pM0wjVXu6v
Eighthman Siya Kolisi, hooker Dylan Richardson, and lock Emile van Heerden have all been declared fit, much to the relief of head coach John Plumtree. Kolisi, the Springbok captain, will lead the Sharks into a match that holds significant implications for both teams vying for a second win in a row in the competition.
The Sharks, currently in fifth, have the opportunity to end the year in third spot on the URC log with a win.
“It’s good to have the guys back, but we had a bit of sickness in the camp this week as well with the tummy virus.”
“It’s good to have the guys back, but we had a bit of sickness in the camp this week as well with the tummy virus. So, hopefully, by Saturday we will be okay to go,” Plumtree said with his team announcement.
“It’s been a mixed bag in terms of preparation the last couple of weeks, but I guess with both camps Christmas would’ve upset preparations. The teams will be fired up to go in front of a bumper crowd.
“For us, this week was all about getting a few bodies back for this match.”
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“We had eight forwards out from the pack against the Bulls, but the nice thing about coming back from England and getting a win against them is that the boys will go into this game with a bit of confidence.”
In adapting to the absence of star winger Makazole Mapimpi, Ethan Hooker has been shifted from centre to wing. This move opens the door for promising talent Jurenzo Julius, who is set to make his starting debut after appearing as a substitute last week.
The adjustments reflect Plumtree’s strategic approach, as he seeks to harness the full potential of his squad. Despite the Sharks’ recent success, Plumtree acknowledges the enormity of the challenge ahead.
“It’s always a massive challenge playing the Stormers away from home and it’s been a while since the Sharks won down there.”
“It’s always a massive challenge playing the Stormers away from home and it’s been a while since the Sharks won down there. They have put a focus on winning the last two games and we are the second one. So we know how tough it will be.
“Both teams play a pretty expansive game and that should be pretty entertaining to watch. We are also looking forward to that battle up front.” | Independent Media Sport
Sharks: 15 Aphelele Fassi, 14 Yaw Penxe, 13 Jurenzo Julius, 12 Andre Esterhuizen, 11 Ethan Hooker, 10 Jordan Hendrikse, 9 Jaden Hendrikse, 8 Siya Kolisi (capt), 7 Emmanuel Tshituka, 6 Phepsi Buthelezi, 5 Emile van Heerden, 4 Jason Jenkins, 3 Vincent Koch, 2 Dylan Richardson, 1 Ox Nche; Replacements: 16 Bryce Calvert, 17 Ruan Dreyer, 18 Trevor Nyakane, 19 Corne Rahl, 20 Nick Hatton, 21 Bradley Davids, 22 Siya Masuku, 23 Francois Venter.