Siya Kolisi returns as injury-hit Sharks face crucial URC tour without Eben Etzebeth

Head coach JP Pietersen has named a travelling squad to face the Ospreys and Edinburgh, with the Durban side currently 10th on the log, seven points outside the top eight.

There is a major boost with the return of Siya Kolisi from a calf injury, while captain Andre Esterhuizen and several regulars are back after being rested.

But the absence of Eben Etzebeth is a significant blow, with the lock ruled out for up to two months with a hip injury, effectively ending his season. Fellow Springboks Bongi Mbonambi, Grant Williams and Jordan Hendrikse are also expected to miss the remainder of the campaign.

Pietersen has also included promising 18-year-old Zekhethelo Siyaya, who joins a squad featuring experienced names like Makazole Mapimpi, Jaden Hendrikse, Ox Nche and Vincent Koch.

With limited games remaining, the Sharks will need strong performances on tour to keep their URC playoff hopes alive.

Sharks squad

Backs - Ross Braude, Bradley Davids, Andre Esterhuizen (c), Jaden Hendrikse, Ethan Hooker, Jurenzo Julius, Le Roux Malan, Makazole Mapimpi, Siya Masuku, Jean Smith, Zekhethelo Siyaya, Edwill van der Merwe.

Forwards - Phepsi Buthelezi, Phatu Ganyane, Nick Hatton, Hanro Jacobs, Jason Jenkins, Vincent Koch, Siya Kolisi, Lee-Marvin Mazibuko, Fez Mbatha, Ox Nche, Corne Rahl, Eduan Swart, Manu Tshituka, Vincent Tshituka, Emile van Heerden, Willem van den Hever.

READ MORE: Rassie revives SA 'A' team for Springbok curtain raiser to strengthen squad depth