Siya Kolisi Leads Springbok Stars Back to Sharks for Stormers Clash
The Sharks are set for an exciting challenge as they welcome several Springboks back into their squad for the upcoming United Rugby Championship (URC) match against the Stormers. This fixture, taking place at Hollywoodbets Kings Park in Durban, is highly anticipated following the Sharks’ previous victory against the Stormers. They won 30-19 in Cape Town last week.
Sharks’ Team Reshuffle
Sharks interim head coach JP Pietersen has made notable changes to his matchday lineup. Captain Siya Kolisi will lead a strong group that includes Springbok players Edwill van der Merwe, Grant Williams, Vincent Tshituka, and Ox Nche.
Key Player Changes
- Edwill van der Merwe and Grant Williams enter the backline, replacing Yaw Penxe and Jaden Hendrikse.
- Phepsi Buthelezi moves from openside flank to number eight.
- Vincent Tshituka takes over the blindside flank from Manu Tshituka.
The back three will include Van der Merwe, Aphelele Fassi, and rookie Jaco Williams. The centers will be Andre Esterhuizen and Ethan Hooker, while Jordan Hendrikse and Grant Williams will form the half-back pairing. The forward pack sees Corne Rahl join Emile van Heerden in the second row and changes in the front row, where Ox Nche, Fez Mbatha, and Hanro Jacobs will start.
Match Insights
Despite their past victory, Shark’s captain Esterhuizen emphasizes the need for improvement. He acknowledges the importance of consistency in performance. “We cannot think we have arrived after one win,” he stated. “This derby requires our best efforts every time.”
Upcoming Match Details
- Date: Saturday, January 31
- Venue: Hollywoodbets Kings Park, Durban
- Kick-off: 17:00 local time (15:00 GMT)
- Referee: Christopher Allison (SARU)
Esterhuizen has also praised the team’s transformation under coach Pietersen. “I’m enjoying my role as captain, and the team’s dynamics have improved significantly,” he added. The Sharks aim to secure another victory before the team takes a break for the Six Nations.
This match forms a critical part of their season as they strive to maintain momentum in the URC. The Sharks are determined to prove they can deliver repeat performances against formidable rivals like the Stormers.
