Kolisi headlines Sharks team to face Lions

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Sharks will be boosted with the return of a few high-profile players, including Springbok captain Siya Kolsi, for the United Rugby Championship clash against the Lions.

Kolisi, along with Vincent Koch and Jaden Hendrikse have been named in the 23-man squad at Ellis Park.

Springbok scrumhalf Jaden Hendrikse replaces Grant Williams at scrumhalf, with the latter playing off the bench.

In the other two changes to the starting XV, the injured Trevor Nyakane is replaced by Ruan Dreyer while Deon Slabbert comes in for Corne Rahl at lock.

Vincent Tshituka will continue his role as captain, while Kolisi, Koch and Eduan Keyter will all bring plenty of experience to the bench.

The Sharks head into the match oozing with confidence following their win over the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld.

Sharks: 15 Jordan Hendrikse, 14 Yaw Penxe, 13 Jurenzo Julius, 12 Lukhanyo Am, 11 Ethan Hooker, 10 Siya Masuku, 9 Jaden Hendrikse, 8 Phepsi Buthelezi, 7 Vincent Tshituka (captain), 6 Tinotenda Mavesere, 5 Jason Jenkins, 4 Deon Slabbert, 3 Ruan Dreyer, 2 Bongi Mbonambi, 1 Ntuthuko Mchunu.
Replacements: 16 Ethan Bester, 17 Dian Bleuler, 18 Vincent Koch, 19 Lappies Labuschagne, 20 Siya Kolisi, 21 Grant Williams, 22 Francois Venter, 23 Eduan Keyter

Date: Saturday, March 1
Venue: Ellis Park Park, Johannesburg
Kick-off: 14.30 (12.30 GMT)
Referee: Christopher Allison (South Africa)
Assistant referees: Stephen Geldenhuys (South Africa), Hanru van Rooyen (South Africa)
TMO: Quinton Immelman (South Africa)