Sharks Face Northampton Saints: Exciting Rugby Showdown

The Sharks are set to face the Northampton Saints in an exciting rugby showdown this Saturday, with kickoff scheduled for 5.30 PM. This match is particularly significant as the Sharks aim to solidify their position in the Gallagher Premiership before the upcoming Six Nations.

Sharks’ Squad Changes Ahead of the Match

With a focus on reclaiming their top four status, head coach Alex Sanderson has made nine changes to the Sharks’ lineup. Several key players are returning from injury, bolstering the squad.

Notable Returning Players

• Tom Curry
• Raffi Quirke
• George Ford
• Joe Carpenter

Arron Reed also makes an appearance on the bench after recovering from a knee injury.

Unchanged Front Row

The Sharks’ front row remains unchanged for the third consecutive match. The starting pack consists of:

• Bevan Rodd
• Nathan Jibulu
• James Harper

Lineup Details

In the second row, captain Ernst van Rhyn partners with Ben Bamber. In the back row, Jacques Vermeulen and Tom Curry join Sam Dugdale.

Raffi Quirke, now healthy, will start as scrum-half, positioned behind fly-half George Ford. In the centers, Rekeiti Ma’asi-White partners with Rob du Preez, while the back three is made up of Alex Wills, Tom O’Flaherty, and Joe Carpenter.

Bench Strength

The bench features additional depth with the following players:

• Ethan Caine (replacement hooker)
• Si McIntyre (prop)
• Patreece Bell (prop)
• Tom Burrow (forward)
• Jos Gilmore (forward)
• Gus Warr (back)
• Marius Louw (back)
• Arron Reed (wing)

Starting XV Overview

The Sharks need a victory against the Northampton Saints to enhance their chances of securing a place in the top four of the Gallagher Premiership. Fans can catch the action live on TNT Sports.