JP Pietersen urges Sharks to show 'DNA' against Stormers, highlights key battles

The Durban side head to Cape Town seeking a third consecutive victory over their coastal rivals, having beaten the Stormers 30-19 in their most recent meeting in January. However, Pietersen knows his team will face a stern challenge against a home side bolstered by the return of several Springboks.

The Sharks have won their opening two matches at Kings Park, but their first away assignment of the campaign will offer a clearer indication of their progress.

"They want to go fast with the loosies they've got and have a good set-piece with Wilco coming back," Pietersen said.

"Both teams have gone with the 6-2 bench split, and one thing they have in common is that it's going to be a forward-physical battle.

"It's a tough outing to play away from home. It's an opportunity and a challenge for us to test our DNA and the way we want to play. We want to be fast, physical and relentless on Saturday."

Pietersen has responded to the challenge by naming a strong starting XV, promoting Ox Nche, Eben Etzebeth and Ethan Hooker from the bench.

Nche returns at loosehead prop, with Thomas du Toit at tighthead and Eduan Swart at hooker. Etzebeth partners Darrien Landsberg in the second row, while Matt Romao joins Manu Tshituka in the loose trio and Phepsi Buthelezi starts at No 8.

Andre Esterhuizen captains the side from inside centre, alongside Jurenzo Julius, with Jaden Hendrikse and Vusi Moyo forming the halfback pairing.

The Sharks will also rely on their backline to counter the Stormers' attacking threats, particularly under the high ball. Springbok fullback Damian Willemse returns to the starting line-up for the hosts, who also have experienced wings Seabelo Senatla and Leolin Zas available.

Pietersen expects the aerial contest to be just as significant as the battle among the forwards, backing Springboks Edwill van der Merwe and Hooker to make their presence felt.

"Everybody's just talking about the forwards all the time. It's good that there's going to be some backs as well," he said.

"With the forwards, there's the physicality, and obviously with the backs there's the flair and the X-factor. Both backlines are unbelievable - very skilful, with speed in both teams."

The Sharks coach also stressed that winning possession in the air would not be enough on its own, with the speed of each team's reaction after the contest potentially determining who gains the advantage.

"Once a team wins the ball, it's about how quickly you react and set the defensive line. And for the team with the ball, it's about how quickly you move it and expose the def

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