URC: Boks back in the fold as Sharks recall big guns for Loftus showdown

A 21â-12 victory over the Bulls at Hollywoodbets Kings Park in December laid the foundation for the Sharks' campaign. That result was followed by back-to-back home-and-away wins over the DHL Stormers, lifting the Durban side to the top of the SA Shield standings.

Saturday's clash presents an opportunity to secure the points needed to clinch the Shield, but the task will be demanding against a Bulls side sitting two places above the Sharks on the overall log, having played one fewer match and holding a one-point advantage.

Head coach JP Pietersen has recalled Springboks Ox Nche, Vincent Koch, Phepsi Buthelezi, Jordan Hendrikse, Makazole Mapimpi and Esterhuizen to the starting line-up, adding experience and leadership for the Highveld encounter.

The Bulls arrive with renewed confidence after halting a four-match losing streak with consecutive victories over Edinburgh and the Lions, setting the stage for what should be an absolute cracker.

Saturday's match at Loftus kicks off at 5pm.

Sharks - 15 Jaco Williams, 14 Edwill van der Merwe, 13 Jurenzo Julius, 12 Andre Esterhuizen (Captain), 11 Makazole Mapimpi, 10 Jordan Hendrikse, 9 Jaden Hendrikse, 8 Phepsi Buthelezi, 7 Vincent Tshituka, 6 Tino Mavesere, 5 Emile van Heerden, 4 Jason Jenkins, 3 Vincent Koch, 2 Eduan Swart, 1 Ox Nche.

Replacements: 16 Fez Mbatha, 17 Phatu Ganyane, 18 Hanro Jacobs*, 19 Corne Rahl, 20 Thomas Dyer, 21 Ross Braude, 22 Siya Masuku, 23 Yaw Penxe.

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