Vodacom Bulls’ struggle has seen Springbok assistant coaches Felix Jones and Jerry Flannery, SA Rugby Mobi-Unit coach Duane Vermeulen, and Head of Athletic Performance Andy Edwards roped in to assist.
Sharks coach JP Pietersen says the experience of two-time Rugby World Cup winner Eben Etzebeth will be sorely missed as the lock serves a suspension that will keep him sidelined until March next year.
DHL Stormers director of rugby John Dobson has expressed his delight at the return of two-time Rugby World Cup-winning Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, describing his homecoming as a major boost for the Cape Town-based franchise.
The Sharks can confirm that Springbok captain Siya Kolisi will leave the side at the conclusion of the current season to take up an opportunity with the DHL Stormers.
Springbok flyhalf Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu has signed a long-term contract extension that will keep him in Cape Town until at least July 2029, strengthening Stormers Rugby’s Project 2029 and securing one of the most exciting talents in world rugby.
Thirty-two-year-old Neethling Fouche says that it will be a bonus for him to run out at his fabled homeground of DHL Stadium to rapturous applause as he brings up his 100th appearance for the Stormers against the Lions this coming weekend.
Saracens Director of Rugby Mark McCall and player Andy Onyeama-Christie expressed their admiration for the Sharks, noting that despite the team’s difficult start, they still expected a major challenge from a strong, quality side.
Stormers head coach John Dobson heaped praise on his powerful pack and hailed the tremendous talent they have at their disposal following the Stormers’ impressive victory over Bayonne on Saturday.
Sharks coach John Plumtree has confirmed that his Springbok players are expected to be available for their next match against English giants Saracens in the Investec Champions Cup on Saturday.