Plumtree includes Bok in key changes for Final face-off

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Sharks coach John Plumtree has made two key changes to his team for the Currie Cup Final face-off against the Lions at Ellis Park on Saturday.

The Sharks XV will take an eight-game unbeaten streak – including a win over the Lions towards the end of July, the Johannesburg-based team’s only loss in the pool stages – into the Final.

It provides the Durban team with the perfect build-up for the big finale.

Plumtree has largely stuck with last week’s semifinal team, making just two changes – one amongst the forwards and the other in the backline.

Plumtree has named Emmanuel Tshituka at No.8 for Phepsi Buthelezi, after playing off the bench last week.

Jurenzo Julius returns at outside centre to partner with Springbok Andre Esterhuizen in the midfield.

Springbok Jason Jenkins looks set to make his Sharks debut off the bench.

Sharks assistant coach Warren Whitely admits that the team is in a good space, but acknowledged the sizable challenge that lies ahead.

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“We’re proud of the effort and character shown in last week’s semifinal and now we’re in the Final – which is really special, a great opportunity for us,” Whiteley said.

“We’ve built nicely over the last few weeks.

“The Lions is also a great side. That’s why they’re top of the standings and they’ve proved that throughout the competition.

“It’s going to be a massive test for us, but one we’re really looking forward to.

“This is the Final and we’re treating it with respect; we want to honour the tradition of the Currie Cup.

“We’re looking forward to the challenge.

“The Lions is a quality side who got the better of us a couple of times.

“They have a massive, dominant pack and some explosive backs and we can’t wait to get out there.”

Players not considered for selection due to injury include Braam Reyneke, Dan Jooste, Diego Appollis, Hakeem Kunene, IG Prinsloo, Khwezi Mona, Marnus Potgieter, Phepsi Buthelezi, Siya Ningiza, Thomas Dyer and Yaw Penxe.

Sharks: 15 Jordan Hendrikse, 14 Eduan Keyter, 13 Jurenzo Julius, 12 Andre Esterhuizen, 11 Ethan Hooker, 10 Siya Masuku, 9 Bradley Davids, 8 Emmanuel Tshituka, 7 Vincent Tshituka (captain), 6 James Venter, 5 Emile van Heerden, 4 Corne’ Rahl, 3 Hanro Jacobs, 2 Fez Mbatha, 1 Ntuthuko Mchunu.
Replacements: 16 Dylan Richardson, 17 Trevor Nyakane, 18 Mawande Mdanda, 19 Jason Jenkins, 20 Gerbrandt Grobler, 21 Tinotenda Mavesere, 22 Tian Meyer, 23 Lionel Cronje.

Date: Saturday, September 21
Venue: Ellis Park, Johannesburg
Kick-off: 16.00 (14.00 GMT)
Referee: Morné Ferreira
Assistant referees: Griffin Colby, Stephan Geldenhuys
TMO: Egon Seconds