As it was revealed by Sportswire, experienced Sharks lock Eben Etzebeth has been declared fit for Saturday’s crucial EPCR Challenge Cup quarter-final against Edinburgh at Hollywoodbets Kings Park (13:30).
This news comes after the Sharks secured three consecutive home victories. The upcoming match presents another opportunity to maintain their dominance at “Fortress Kings Park” after defeating the visiting Edinburgh side just a few weeks ago in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship.
Head coach John Plumtree boasts an almost full squad at his disposal. Heeding the adage “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” Plumtree is likely to stick with the winning formula, minimizing disruption.
Etzebeth replaces Corne Rahl, who filled his role in the URC match. Rahl shifts to the bench alongside replacement hooker Dan Jooste, who comes in for Kerron van Vuuren.
Sharks Anticipate a Tough Challenge
Hooker Bongi Mbonambi expects a fierce battle from the Scottish side: “It’s a quarter-final, so they’ll be fielding their best team, determined to progress to the semi-finals. We’re preparing accordingly.”
Mbonambi highlights the positive team spirit and the motivating factor of returning injured players: “The camp atmosphere is excellent, with high energy levels. The return of injured players like Emile van Heerden, Eben Etzebeth, and Vincent Koch significantly strengthens the forward pack. We know the road to the final will be challenging, but our immediate focus is on conquering this quarter-final. Each win propels us further in this competition.”
Hollywoodbets Sharks Squad:
- Starting XV: Ox Nche, Bongi Mbonambi, Vincent Koch, Eben Etzebeth, Emile van Heerden, James Venter, Vincent Tshituka, Phepsi Buthelezi, Jaden Hendrikse, Siya Masuku, Makazole Mapimpi, Ethan Hooker, Lukhanyo Am (c), Werner Kok, Aphelele Fassi
- Replacements: Dan Jooste, Ntuthuko Mchunu, Hanro Jacobs, Corne Rahl, Jeandre Labuschagne, Grant Williams*, Curwin Bosch**, Francois Venter
Milestones:
- Grant Williams is set to earn his 50th international tournament cap if he features in the starting lineup.
- Curwin Bosch is poised to reach his 100th international tournament cap if he starts the match