Springboks Etzebeth and Mbonambi set for Sharks’ Champions Cup showdown with Toulouse

The Sharks are gearing up for a high-stakes European Champions Cup showdown against Toulouse in Durban on Saturday evening, with the potential return of Springbok stars Eben Etzebeth and Bongi Mbonambi offering a timely boost.

Facing a Toulouse squad brimming with French internationals, including their influential captain and scrumhalf Antoine Dupont, the Sharks are eager to field their strongest lineup. Etzebeth and Mbonambi missed the team’s last two fixtures, including a United Rugby Championship win over the Bulls and a loss to the Stormers. Both players sustained injuries during the previous Champions Cup encounter against Exeter Chiefs.

In an injury report, the Sharks expressed optimism about their availability:
“We are confident Bongi should be okay for the clash with Toulouse. Eben has one more swathe test to pass for his concussion symptoms, but he is expected to be available as well,” the team said.

Adding to the optimism, Springbok outside centre Lukhanyo Am is also likely to make a return to the squad. However, the Sharks face setbacks, with inside centre Andre Esterhuizen ruled out after sustaining a knee injury against the Stormers. Coach John Plumtree confirmed that Esterhuizen is undergoing further assessments to determine whether surgery will be required.
“Andre’s scan indicates he’ll likely be out for four to six weeks. We’re hoping he won’t need an operation, but we’ll know more after he sees a specialist,” Plumtree said.

The team will also be without fullback Aphelele Fassi, sidelined by an ankle injury. Plumtree noted that scans have been conducted, and Fassi is consulting with a specialist in Durban. While the timeline for his recovery remains unclear, his absence could prompt positional shifts, with Jordan Hendrikse stepping in at fullback and Siya Masuku potentially filling the flyhalf role.

Tough Opposition Awaits
The Sharks are bracing for a fierce challenge from Toulouse, a team stacked with talent and experience. Securing a win in Durban is crucial for the Sharks as they navigate the demanding Champions Cup campaign.

Upcoming Fixtures
The weekend promises a slate of exciting South African rugby action in the Champions and Challenge Cups:

• Stormers vs. Sale Sharks: Saturday, 3 p.m.
• Sharks vs. Toulouse: Saturday, 5:15 p.m.
• Castres vs. Bulls: Saturday, 10 p.m.
• Montpellier vs. Lions: Saturday, 7:30 p.m. (Challenge Cup)
• Cheetahs vs. Zebre: Sunday, 3 p.m.

With key players making their return and tactical adjustments underway, the Sharks are ready to put up a formidable fight in what promises to be a thrilling contest.

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