Springboks captain Siya Kolisi is set to make his much-anticipated return to the Sharks this Saturday in their showdown against the reigning United Rugby Championship champions, the Glasgow Warriors.
Kolisi, who recently completed a year-long stint with Racing 92 in the French Top 14, will start at Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium, bringing experience and leadership to a Sharks team eager to turn their season around.
Kolisi is not the only Springbok joining the Sharks’ ranks. Following a triumphant Rugby Championship campaign, head coach John Plumtree has named a starting lineup stacked with South Africa internationals, including World Cup winners Ox Nche, Bongi Mbonambi, and Vincent Koch. In an exciting twist, the team will be captained by Kolisi’s longtime teammate Eben Etzebeth, who recently became South Africa’s most-capped player.
A Star-Studded Lineup
The Sharks will rely on a nearly all-Springbok front row with Nche, Mbonambi, and Koch. Kolisi, 33, will resume his role in the back row, flanked by Emmanuel Tshituka and Phepsi Buthelezi, creating a formidable forward pack aimed at overpowering the Warriors.
The backline also boasts an impressive lineup of Springboks, featuring the return of experienced players like wing Makazole Mapimpi, center Lukhanyo Am, and fullback Aphelele Fassi. Wing Eduan Keyter is the sole player in the starting XV without a national cap, but his recent form and speed make him a valuable addition to the Sharks’ arsenal.
The Battle Ahead
The Sharks have had a shaky start to the season, with just one win from their first three games. However, with a host of returning Boks, they are well-equipped to take on the high-flying Glasgow Warriors, who currently sit in second place on the URC table.
“We’re excited to have our international players back,” said Plumtree. “Having the experience and quality that these Springboks bring is invaluable, especially against a side as competitive as Glasgow. We’re ready for the challenge and are determined to show our best rugby on home soil.”
The Sharks’ substitutions bench also packs a punch, with Trevor Nyakane and Grant Williams providing additional Springbok firepower. Expect an intense and physical battle, as both teams are aiming to make their mark early in the season.
Hollywoodbets Sharks Starting XV:
1. Ox Nche
2. Bongi Mbonambi
3. Vincent Koch
4. Eben Etzebeth (c)
5. Emile van Heerden
6. Siya Kolisi
7. Emmanuel Tshituka
8. Phepsi Buthelezi
9. Jaden Hendrikse
10. Jordan Hendrikse
11. Makazole Mapimpi
12. Andre Esterhuizen
13. Lukhanyo Am
14. Eduan Keyter
15. Aphelele Fassi
Replacements:
16. Fez Mbatha
17. Trevor Nyakane
18. Ruan Dreyer
19. Jason Jenkins
20. James Venter
21. Grant Williams
22. Siya Masuku
23. Jurenzo Julius
With Kolisi’s return and a lineup bolstered by returning Springboks, Sharks fans will be hoping for a powerful performance and a victory over the defending champions.
