Interim coach JP Pietersen has named a strong Sharks side boosted by the return of several Springbok stars, including Siya Kolisi, for their Investec Champions Cup clash against Saracens at Kings Park Stadium on Saturday.
The Sharks, who lost their opening game last weekend to French giants Stade Toulousain, have selected a lineup that acknowledges the quality of the opposition coming to Durban while also showcasing the strength of the squad assembled in Black and White.
Andre Esterhuizen leads a side both star-studded and a mix of talented youth.
Aphelele Fassi has been handed a start in his customary fullback position, returning after sustaining an ankle injury for the Springboks against the All Blacks in September, marking a significant comeback.
Hooker Bongi Mbonambi, flank Siya Kolisi, scrumhalf Grant Williams, Esterhuizen at centre, outside centre Ethan Hooker, and Edwill van der Merwe (wing) all feature in the starting XV after their recent international engagements.
Esterhuizen, who celebrates his 100th appearance for the Hollywoodbets Sharks, expressed his gratitude, stating, “It’s taken me a while to get here, but it’s a massive honour to play my 100th game for a franchise like the Hollywoodbets Sharks. I was always going to come back here after my stint overseas and I’m really excited for this week and honoured to play 100 games in the jersey.”
Saracens have experienced a similar season, having missed their internationals during the Autumn Nations Series and the British & Irish Lions tour between June and August. However, they have reintegrated key players like Ben Earl, Elliot Daly, Owen Farrell, and Jamie George for their tour to South Africa, determined to assert themselves after being recent Challenge Cup title-holders.
Saturday’s match between these rugby powerhouses kicks off at 5.15pm.
Hollywoodbets Sharks Starting Lineup
1. Phatu Ganyane
2. Bongi Mbonambi
3. Hanro Jacobs
4. Jason Jenkins
5. Emile van Heerden
6. Siya Kolisi
7. Vincent Tshituka
8. Phepsi Buthelezi
9. Grant Williams
10. George Whitehead
11. Makazole Mapimpi
12. Andre Esterhuizen (C)
13. Ethan Hooker
14. Edwill van der Merwe
15. Aphelele Fassi
Replacements
16. Eduan Swart
17. Lee-Marvin Mazibuko
18. Mawande Mdanda
19. Marvin Orie
20. Matt Romao
21. Nick Hatton
22. Jaden Hendrikse
23. Jordan Hendrikse
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