Sharks Set to Conquer UK Despite Missing Key Players

The Hollywoodbets Sharks embark on their UK tour for the 2025/26 Vodacom United Rugby Championship.

Faced with a shortage of Springbok players and a significant injury roster, the Sharks have assembled a 29-man squad for their European tour, which includes matches against the Glasgow Warriors, Dragons, and Leinster.

Injuries have sidelined key players such as Albie Bester, Aphelele Fassi, and Siya Masuku among others, yet the team retains a strong lineup featuring a mix of experienced Springboks, fresh recruits, and promising junior talent.

Head coach John Plumtree commented on the squad's preparation challenges due to injuries and commitments in the Carling Currie Cup, stating, “However, over the last few weeks it’s been good to get everyone back in and start building towards this tour. So, there are some challenges.”

Looking ahead to the upcoming matches, Plumtree highlighted the formidable task at hand, particularly against the Glasgow Warriors, the 2024 champions. “Glasgow are obviously a tough side, and it’s always a huge challenge to play them at home,” he said.

The Sharks will also face the Dragons in their second match, and later conclude the tour against Leinster, another challenging opponent. “But we’re ready to go and looking forward to getting away and spending some time together,” Plumtree noted.

FORWARDS

1. Bathobele Hlekani

2. Cameron Dawson

3. Cebo Dlamini

4. Dian Bleuler

5. Eduan Swart

6. Emmanuel Tshituka

7. Fez Mbatha

8. Lee-Marvin Mazibuko

9. Marvin Orie

10. Mawande Mdanda

11. Nick Hatton

12. Phepsi Buthelezi

13. Ruan Dreyer

14. Simphiwe Matanzima

15. Tino Mavesere

16. Vincent Tshituka (c)

17. Willem van den Hever

BACKS

1. Ceano Everson

2. Christie Grobbelaar

3. Edwill van der Merwe

4. Francois Venter

5. Hakeem Kunene

6. Jaden Hendrikse

7. Jurenzo Julius

8. Lukhanyo Am

9. Phikolomzi Sobahle

10. Jean Smith

11. Ross Braude

12. Yaw Penxe