Rugby Reporter
Sharks coach John Plumtree has made his intention crystal clear on Thursday after selecting a matchday 23 to face the Stormers in their United Rugby Championship (URC) clash this weekend that can only be described as power.
The Durbanites have welcomed back nearly all of their Springboks for the encounter at Hollywoodbets Kings Park, as they attempt to finally beat the former champions in the URC. The only exceptions are lock Eben Etzebeth, due to concussion, and hooker Bongi Mbonambi (bereavement).
…Nothing else matters🦈@vodacom #URC #SHAvSTO pic.twitter.com/JSSkHfQytM
Although not wholly unexpected, Plumtree has indeed opted for Siya Masuka to start at flyhalf, while Jordan Hendrikse – who started last week’s Test for the Boks against Wales – will play a utility role. The 23-year-old will cover flyhalf, centre and fullback from the bench on the day.
Brother Jaden, meanwhile, gets the nod at scrumhalf ahead of Grant Williams in the other debatable selection. The experiment of Siya Kolisi playing at the back of the scrum continues, the Boks and Sharks captain packing down at eighthman behind a frightening forwards unit.
Kick-off for the clash on Saturday is 5pm.
Hollywoodbets Sharks starting XV: 15 Aphelele Fassi, 14 Ethan Hooker, 13 Lukhanyo Am, 12 Andre Esterhuizen, 11 Makazole Mapimpi, 10 Siya Masuku, 9 Jaden Hendrikse, 8 Siya Kolisi (capt), 7 Vincent Tshituka, 6 James Venter, 5 Gerbrandt Grobler, 4 Jason Jenkins, 3 Vincent Koch, 2 Dylan Richardson, 1 Ox Nche; Replacements: 16 Ethan Bester, 17 Ntuthuko Mchunu, 18 Trevor Nyakane, 19 Corne Rahl, 20 Phepsi Buthelezi, 21 Emmanuel Tshituka, 22 Grant Williams, 23 Jordan Hendrikse
* Update on the Sharks team announcement to follow.