Sharks’ Springboks backed to deliver against Munster

Six Sharks players have been named in Rassie Erasmus’ 37-man squad for the November internationals in Europe, including Thomas du Toit, Ox Nche, Aphelele Fassi, Emmanuel Tshituka, Ethan Hooker and Edwill van der Merwe. 

Despite the risk of injuries ahead of the national team commitments, Pietersen expects the players to give their all against the Irish side..

"From a player's perspective you want to represent your national team, and I think this game against Munster is a great opportunity for them to show their ability because those guys want to be in the match day 23. If that's what they want to do then they have to perform against Munster."

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The Durban outfit faces another demanding challenge in Ireland as they aim to wrap up their three-match European tour with a third successive victory. Standing in their way is a Munster side determined to respond after suffering a narrow 24-18 defeat to Leinster in their previous outing. 

Pietersen anticipates a strong reaction from the hosts, who will be eager to return to winning ways in front of their home supporters.

"Munster would've felt that they could've beat Leinster last week so they will want to respond in their last home game before the break, so it's going to be a massive challenge for us as a group."

Having secured victories in France and Wales, the Sharks now have an opportunity to complete a clean sweep of their European tour before the November international window. Another positive result against Munster would provide further evidence of the progress made under Pietersen, particularly in maintaining their performances away from home.

Meanwhile, Pietersen has expressed hope that experienced hooker Bongi Mbonambi can revive his international career following his unexpected exit from the Sharks. The 35-year-old has secured a one-year deal with the Stormers after reaching a mutual agreement with the Durban franchise to terminate his contract earlier this week. 

His departure follows reports of an internal disciplinary matter involving an alleged breach of team regulations. 

Mbonambi, a two-time Rugby World Cup winner, is now in Cape Town, where he previously played before joining the Sharks in 2021, and Pietersen wished the veteran forward well as he begins a new chapter in his career.