URC: Sharks get Bok boost for Leinster clash in Dublin

The timing couldn't be better. Makazole Mapimpi and Ethan Hooker are both handed starts (on either wing) for this final match on tour, while Vincent Koch and Bongi Mbonambi add presence off the bench. In addition, there is a welcome return for Siya Masuku.

The only other change sees Jason Jenkins replacing Deon Slabbert in the second row.

This final tour match is an opportunity to show the growth in this young side before the  Sharks return home to Kings Park.

For vice-captain Lukhanyo Am, the development of squad depth has been pleasing in light of the absence of Springbok players, injuries and disruptions.

"We've been really impressed with the young blood coming through, guys showing such grit in the past two games," the Springbok centre told the Sharks website.

"It's the beginning of the season and we have so much potential to grow."

And the boost from the Bok squad?

"They're quality players, they will fit in perfectly and having them in our squad will definitely help us," he added.

"It's the last game on tour and we're facing a quality side, the champs, but this is one game everyone is really excited about and looking forward to playing. We have a lot to prove playing Leinster at their home ground.

"Leinster are coming back from tour, playing their first game back at home with their British and Irish Lions players returning, while we've had a boost with some Springbok guys joining us, so we want to finish the tour on a high.

"They're a quality side and when you face a team like that, you must capitalise on the opportunities you get. They have great players and great systems, but for us, it's when we do create those opportunities, we have to ensure nine out of ten times we capitalise."

Sharks - 15 Edwill van der Merwe, 14 Ethan Hooker, 13 Jurenzo Julius, 12 Lukhanyo Am, 11 Makazole Mapimpi, 10 Jean Smith, 9 Jaden Hendrikse, 8 Vincent Tshituka (c), 7 Emmanuel Tshituka, 6 Phepsi Buthelezi, 5 Marvin Orie, 4 Jason Jenkins, 3 Ruan Dreyer, 2 Fez Mbatha, 1 Simphiwe Matanzima

Replacements: 16 Bongi Mbonambi, 17 Dian Bleuler, 18 Vincent Koch, 19 Bathobele Hlekani, 20 Nick Hatton, 21 Ross Braude, 22 Siya Masuku, 23 Francois Venter

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