Sports
Kolisi and Ox Return as Sharks Gear Up for Crucial Clash Against Lions
The Hollywoodbets Sharks are set to field a much stronger team when they take on the Emirates Lions in a crucial Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) Round 12 fixture in Durban this Saturday. With the South African Shield up for grabs, the return of Springbok stars Siya Kolisi and Ox Nche could provide the edge needed to secure victory.
Kolisi Back to Lead the Sharks
Kolisi, who came off the bench in last week’s 38-14 defeat to the Lions in Johannesburg, returns to the starting lineup at No. 8 and will also take over the captaincy. His leadership and presence could be a game-changer as the Sharks look to rebound from their recent struggles.
Nche’s return further bolsters the pack, completing an all-Springbok front row alongside Bongi Mbonambi and Wilco Louw. Their experience will be key in the forward battle against a physical Lions outfit.
South African Shield on the Line
The stakes are high, as a win for the Sharks will see them leapfrog the DHL Stormers to claim the South African Shield. Currently, the Stormers hold a four-point lead, but if the Sharks triumph—especially with a bonus point—they will secure the title based on the tiebreaker rules.
Squad Changes and Injury Updates
While the Sharks welcome back key players, they have also been hit with injuries. Lukhanyo Am joins an already extensive injury list, which includes Aphelele Fassi, Eben Etzebeth, Trevor Nyakane, Vincent Tshituka, and Siya Masuku.
To cover for Masuku’s absence, Jordan Hendrikse shifts from fullback to flyhalf, while Henry Immelman, on loan from the Bulls, makes his debut at fullback. Additionally, Grant Williams returns at scrumhalf, and Francois Venter replaces Am at center.
Hollywoodbets Sharks Team vs Lions
Starting XV:
- Ox Nche, 2. Bongi Mbonambi, 3. Wilco Louw
- Emile van Heerden, 5. Jason Jenkins
- Phelpsi Buthelezi, 7. Lappies Labuschagne, 8. Siya Kolisi (captain)
- Grant Williams, 10. Jordan Hendrikse
- Ethan Hooker, 12. Francois Venter, 13. Jurenzo Julius
- Yaw Penxe, 15. Henry Immelman
Replacements:
16. Fez Mbatha, 17. Ntuthuko Mchunu, 18. Hanro Jacobs, 19. Corne Rahl, 20. James Venter, 21. Nick Hatton, 22. Jaden Hendrikse, 23. Hakeem Kunene
Can the Sharks Overcome the Lions?
With the South African Shield and valuable URC points at stake, the Sharks must deliver a strong performance. The return of Kolisi and Nche provides a massive boost, but the team will need to overcome their injury setbacks and bounce back from last week’s disappointment.
Will the Sharks rise to the occasion and claim the Shield, or will the Lions spoil the party? All will be decided this Saturday in Durban.
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