PREVIEW: Sharks v Bordeaux Bègles
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Sharks head coach Robert du Preez has revealed his team to face French side Union Bordeaux Bègles in the inaugural Durban Challenge match on Friday at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
For the Sharks, the match against the visiting Union Bordeaux Bègles side represents an opportunity for game-time ahead of the upcoming Currie Cup competition. Du Preez will also use this match to test previously untested combinations.
Hooker Mahlatse Ralepelle will lead a youthful side that still contains a number of Super Rugby players who will lend experience, guidance and leadership to the team.
Curwin Bosch was not considered for selection due to carrying a slight niggle.
A new face amongst the team is that of Luke Stringer, the Western Province flank, who joins the Durban side for the Currie Cup campaign.
The Sharks begin their Currie Cup campaign against the Blue Bulls on Saturday, August 25 in Durban.
Teams:
Sharks: 15 Courtney Winnaar, 14 Jacobus van Wyk, 13 Jeremy Ward, 12 Marius Louw, 11 Aphelele Fassi, 10 Robert du Preez, 9 Louis Schreuder, 8 Daniel du Preez, 7 Tyler Paul, 6 Wian Vosloo, 5 Hyron Andrews, 4 Gideon Koegelenberg, 3 John-Hubert Meyer, 2 Mahlatse Ralepelle (captain), 1 Juan Schoeman.
Replacements – from: Kerron van Vuuren, Armand van der Merwe, Mzamo Majola, Khuta Mchunu, Andrew Evans, Lubabalo Mtembu, Luke Stringer, Cameron Wright, Grant Williams, Danrich Visagie, Leolin Zas.
Union Bordeaux Bègles: TBC
Date: Friday, August 17
Venue: Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban
Kick-off: 19.00 (17.00 GMT)
Referee: Andrew Brace
Assistant Referees: Vusi Msibi, Blake Beattie
TMO: Simon McDowell
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