Sharks Get Springbok Boost Ahead Of Tough Leinster Test In Dublin

Sharks Bolstered By Springbok Reinforcements

The Sharks are heading into their final United Rugby Championship (URC) tour match with renewed confidence as a wave of Springbok reinforcements join the squad ahead of their clash with reigning champions Leinster in Dublin on Saturday.

Makazole Mapimpi and Ethan Hooker have both been named in the starting XV, adding speed and experience on the wings. Meanwhile, World Cup winners Bongi Mbonambi and Vincent Koch will provide crucial impact from the bench, while Siya Masuku also makes a timely return to the matchday squad.

The only other change sees Jason Jenkins slotting in for Deon Slabbert in the second row as the Durban outfit looks to close out their tour on a high note before returning to Kings Park.

Lukhanyo Am Praises Young Squad’s Grit

Vice-captain Lukhanyo Am says the Sharks’ growth amid a challenging start to the season has been encouraging.

“We’ve been really impressed with the young blood coming through,” Am said. “It’s still early in the season, but there’s so much potential in this group. The guys have shown real grit, especially in the last two games.”

With key players now back in the fold, Am believes the team is well-positioned to compete with Leinster, who are also welcoming back several of their British and Irish Lions stars.

“They’re quality players, and having them back will definitely help us,” he added. “Leinster are a top side with great systems, but if we capitalise on our chances, we can make it count. When you face a team like that, you have to take your opportunities.”

Sharks Eye Strong Finish To European Tour

This match marks the end of a tough early-season tour for the Durban-based franchise, who are eager to prove their progress against one of the best clubs in European rugby.

Both sides will enter the contest with something to prove. For the Sharks, it’s about momentum and demonstrating that their squad depth can deliver even in hostile territory. For Leinster, it’s a chance to reassert dominance at home after a slow start to their title defence.

If the Sharks can combine the energy of their youthful core with the composure of their returning Springboks, they could leave Dublin with more than just lessons they could return home with a statement win.

Sharks Matchday 23

Starting XV:
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

{Source:SABC Sport}

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