Sharks set for double playmaker boost ahead of Challenge Cup
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The Sharks are preparing for a crucial South African derby against the Stormers, but their European Challenge Cup campaign is also firmly on the radar, with two playmakers closing in on a return.
The Durban-based side will kick off their European campaign with a trip to France to face Lyon, the 2022 Challenge Cup winners.
Having lifted the trophy in 2024, the Sharks will be eager to make another strong statement in Europe. They currently sit at the top of the United Rugby Championship (URC) table ahead of their highly anticipated clash against the Stormers at DHL Stadium.
However, the Sharks have unfinished business against Lyon. The French outfit eliminated the South Africans in the Round of 16 in 2025, setting the stage for another intriguing encounter between the sides.
The Sharks could receive a timely boost ahead of their European opener, with head coach JP Pietersen confirming that Jaco Williams and Jordan Hendrikse are expected to be available for the trip to France.
The duo is among several players currently unavailable for the URC showdown against the Stormers, alongside Bongi Mbonambi, Fez Mbatha, Jannes Potgieter, Makazole Mapimpi, PK Sobahle, Simphiwe Matanzima, Trevor Nyakane, Vincent Tshituka and Yaw Penxe.
“Jordan Hendrikse is in his first week back training with the team. He’s doing very well and looks on track,” Pietersen explained.
“Jaco Williams is another guy, the same as Jordan – he also came back this week.”
While Williams and Hendrikse are edging closer to a return, the Sharks will have to wait a little longer for Vincent Tshituka and Makazole Mapimpi.
“Tshituka will not be available now. He’s obviously under the concussion protocols, so he won’t be available.”
“Hopefully, if I’m right, he will be back probably for Munster [on October 31] or after the November break.
“Makazole is still in rehab [for a hamstring injury]. He’ll be back in December, if everything goes well.”
There was little clarity surrounding the return of Bongi Mbonambi, who missed the majority of the 2025-26 season for the Sharks because of injury.
In August, Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus indicated that the experienced hooker remained part of his plans and that he continued to stay in contact with the two-time Rugby World Cup winner.
However, Pietersen offered little insight into Mbonambi’s current situation when asked about the hooker’s absence.
“Bongi is obviously not up for selection. There’s no comment about Bongi.”
