Sharks make bold Eben move for Challenge Cup showdown
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Sharks host Oyonnax at Kings Park in the Round Three EPCR Challenge Cup clash on Saturday.
The Durban side is second in Pool One and will look to maintain their strong position against the French team, languishing at the bottom with no wins.
This match provides the opportunity for the Sharks to not only make their mark but to deliver a rousing performance in front of the home fans.
Sharks head coach John Plumtree has made just two changes to the starting line-up.
The changes are both in the forwards. Locks Corne’ Rahl takes over from Springbok Eben Etzebeth, who moves to the bench.
The other change sees Lloose forward Tino Mavesere replacing the hard-working James Venter who provides cover off the bench.
The backline remains identical to last week’s side.
Oyonnax come into this game having won less than half their fixtures in the French Top 14 and winless in the EPCR.
However, their current form is not a sign that this is going to be a walk-over.
Sharks: 15 Aphelele Fassi, 14 Werner Kok, 13 Lukhanyo Am (captain), 12 Francois Venter, 11 Makazole Mapimpi, 10 Curwin Bosch, 9 Grant Williams, 8 Phendulani Buthelezi, 7 Lappies Labuschagne, 6 Tino Mavesere, 5 Gerbrandt Grobler, 4 Corne Rahl, 3 Hanro Jacobs, 2 Fez Mbatha, 1 Retshegofaditswe Nche.
Replacements: 16 Kerron van Vuuren, 17 Ntuthuko Mchunu, 18 Khwezi Mona, 19 Eben Etzebeth, 20 James Venter, 21 Jaden Hendrikse, 22 Diego Appollis, 23 Eduan Keyter.
Date: Saturday, January 13
Venue: Kings Park, Durban
Kick-off: 15.00 (13.00 GMT; 14.00 French time)
Referee: Adam Leal (England)
Assistant Referees: Karl Dickson (England), John Meredith (England)
TMO: Hamish Smales (England)
