Sharks reveal strong team for Currie Cup opener
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Newly appointed Sharks Currie Cup captain Phepsi Buthelezi will lead a formidable Sharks side in their Currie Cup opener against the Griquas in Kimberley on Saturday.
South Africa’s premier domestic rugby competition will pit seven provincial franchises against one another over 14 weeks and with the Springboks away on national duty, this opens the window of opportunity for the unearthing of new talent.
As far as the team named by the Sharks coach goes, there are no surprises and he has been able to name a starting XV filled with experience, all with game time during the recently concluded Rainbow Cup SA competition.
Curwin Bosch, who has played a lot of rugby, has been given a rest.
Centre Marnus Potgieter, who joined the Sharks from the Bulls, has been named on the bench for the match.
Sharks: 15 Manie Libbok, 14 Werner Kok, 13 Jeremy Ward, 12 Marius Louw, 11 Anthony Volmink, 10 Boeta Chamberlain, 9 Jaden Hendrikse, 8 Phepsi Buthelezi (captain), 7 Thembelani Bholi, 6 James Venter, 5 Hyron Andrews, 4 Ruben van Heerden, 3 Khutha Mchunu, 2 Fez Mbatha, 1 Khwezi Mona.
Replacements: 16 Kerron van Vuuren, 17 Mzamo Majola, 18 Wiehahn Herbst, 19 JJ van der Mescht, 20 Reniel Hugo, 21 Mpilo Gumede, 22 Grant Williams, 23 Marnus Potgieter.
Date: Saturday, June 19
Venue: Griqua Park, Kimberley
Kick-off: 13.30 (11.30 GMT)
Referee: Rasta Rasivhenge
Assistant Referees: Mpho Matsaung, Franco de Bruin
TMO: AJ Jacobs
