Sharks go without several Springboks for Lions derby

Loose forward Vincent Tshituka will captain the Sharks in their return derby against the Lions. Picture: Steve Haag Sports/Gallo Images The Sharks will miss most of their Springboks, who are on mandated leave, when they take on the Lions in their United Rugby Championship derby at Ellis Park on Saturday (kick-off 2pm). Former Lions loose forward Vincent Tshituka captains the Sharks in the absence of André Esterhuizen, with former captain Siya Kolisi also on leave.

Should the Sharks win, they will secure the URC’s South African shield with one match to spare. They enter on good form, with five wins in seven matches since JP Pietersen took over as coach. He wasmade permanent this week, while other strategic appointments were made in the coaching staff.

Despite the absences of several Springboks, the squad retains significant experience throughout the match-day 23, particularly among the replacements, where three Springboks – Vincent Koch, Phepsi Buthelezi and Jordan Hendrikse add valuable impact and composure. The Durban union are alsoon a missionto climb into the top eight of the URC table. A return of four or five log points against the Lions would see the Sharks leapfrog the eighth-placed Ospreys into play-off contention.

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The Lionsare tied on points with the Sharks, but are one place below at 10th due topoints difference. They will similarly be out for a win as they have never finished the competition in the top eight.

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