Sharks Eye Home Quarterfinal Advantage as Etzebeth Returns

The Hollywoodbets Sharks have received a major boost with flanker James Venter confirming that Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth is expected to be available for this weekend’s Vodacom United Rugby Championship fixture.

Etzebeth, who went down with a knee injury in the Sharks’ win over Ospreys last Friday, was initially feared to be sidelined for the playoffs. The sight of him being helped off the field and later carted off raised concern among both Sharks and Springbok fans, especially with the international season looming.

However, Venter eased those concerns on Tuesday, saying during a media call that Etzebeth has been cleared and is likely to feature on Saturday. Although no official update has come from the Sharks camp, this development is a significant confidence booster as the team looks to close out the regular season strongly.

“I think Eben has been cleared for this weekend’s game,” Venter said. “It’s a massive boost because of his physicality and class, but we also believe in the depth of our squad.”

The Sharks are guaranteed a home quarterfinal but are still playing for position on the log to avoid a tough early playoff opponent like the Stormers.

PUSH FOR THIRD PLACE AND PLAYOFF MOMENTUM

The Sharks currently sit fourth on the table, and depending on other results, could still finish third. If they remain fourth and the Stormers beat Cardiff, the two South African sides would face off in Durban in the quarterfinals. A third-place finish would see the Sharks avoid their local rivals and face the sixth-placed team instead.

“Finishing third is a big motivation,” said Venter. “You’d rather play the sixth team than the fifth, and we’re focused on collecting maximum points and building momentum.”

Venter believes the Sharks are close to hitting their stride after an up-and-down season. With several players returning from injury and the team showing improvement in their recent matches, he’s confident they are peaking at the right time.

“We’re just one game away from clicking. The second half against Ulster and our structure against Ospreys were big steps forward. Now we want to deliver a full 80-minute performance.”

FOCUS ON THE BREAKDOWN AGAINST SCARLETS

Looking ahead to Saturday’s clash against the Scarlets, Venter highlighted the Welsh side’s ability to disrupt opposition ball, particularly at the breakdown and lineouts.

“They like to attack the breakdown and go for turnovers. We enjoy building multi-phase attacks, so we’ve really honed in on our breakdown work this week,” Venter said.

As the Sharks’ key man at the ruck, Venter’s role will be pivotal in securing quick ball and nullifying Scarlets’ threats at the breakdown.

The final team for Saturday’s match will be announced on Friday.

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Sourced:Supersport

Picture: Steve Haag Sport/Holloywood Bets