Some stars missing, but powerful Sharks are packed with Boks

Siya Kolisi and Bongi Mbonambi will be missing, but the Sharks will still bring six current Springboks and a Wallaby to Ellis Park for their United Rugby Championship match on Saturday.

Coach Sean Everitt, in announcing his team on Thursday, revealed that loose forward Kolisi and hooker Mbonambi had been given more time to recover from their exploits for the Springboks at the end of last year.

“Siya and Bongi were not considered for selection because we gave them an extended break in December and they are still in their pre-season training. We thought they’d be better off with one more week of training,” Everitt said.

“The rest of the guys returned to training on December 27 and it has been tough for them, working really hard in tough conditions. We’ve had our traditional January weather in Durban.”

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But the presence of props Ox Nche and Thomas du Toit gives the Sharks a powerful front row, and the backline is star-studded with captain Lukhanyo Am at centre, Makazole Mapimpi and Sbu Nkosi on the wings and Aphelele Fassi at fullback.

Partnering Am in midfield will be Ben Tapuai, who will make his Sharks debut. He has seven Test caps for Australia and previously played for Harlequins in the English Premiership.

“Ben was going to start against the Bulls on December 3 but Covid protocols meant he was not able to play,” Everitt said.

“He’s a skilful player with a left boot like Andre Esterhuizen. He brings an added dimension at inside centre, especially with his confident communication among the backs.”

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Openside flank Dylan Richardson, who is now eligible to play in the Six Nations for Scotland, is currently out injured as he recovers from a stress fracture.

James Venter will start in the No 6 jersey, with other young talents in Jeandre Labuschagne and Phepsi Buthelezi completing the loose trio.

They will be busy as the Sharks expect an open, running game starting at 3pm at Ellis Park.

Sharks

Aphelele Fassi, Sbu Nkosi, Lukhanyo Am (c), Ben Tapuai, Makazole Mapimpi, Boeta Chamberlain, Grant Williams, Phepsi Buthelezi, Jeandre Labuschagne, James Venter, Hyron Andrews, Ruben van Heerden, Thomas du Toit (v/c), Kerron van Vuuren, Ox Nche

Bench: Fez Mbatha, Ntuthuko Mchunu, Khutha Mchunu, Reniel Hugo, Henco Venter, Jaden Hendrikse, Tito Bonilla, Jeremy Ward