Andre Esterhuizen Returns For Loftus Clash But Sharks Travel Light On Star Power

The Sharks will have their midfield powerhouse back at the helm this weekend, but Andre Esterhuizen’s return is only part of the story. As Durban’s side heads to a high-stakes URC derby at Loftus, they’re walking into Pretoria without many of the Springboks supporters expected to see back in the mix.

A Big Return, But A Big Missing List Too

For weeks, Sharks fans had circled this clash as the moment the cavalry would return. After falling short against the Lions in Johannesburg, the assumption was that the big names would re-emerge for the altitude test against the Bulls.

Instead, only two heavyweight reinforcements are back: Esterhuizen at inside centre and Ox Nche anchoring the scrum. Beyond that, the Sharks are still carrying a long list of absentees.

Ethan Hooker, Grant Williams, Siya Kolisi, and Aphelele Fassi are all unavailable. Eben Etzebeth continues to serve his suspension and Bongi Mbonambi remains sidelined through injury. For a derby where precision under the high ball often determines the winner, Fassi’s absence at fullback is particularly notable.

Backline Shuffle As Fassi Drops Out

With no explanation from the team as to whether Fassi is injured or managed under Springbok protocols, the Sharks have reworked their backline. Jaco Williams shifts from wing to fullback, a significant responsibility on the highveld.

Makazole Mapimpi’s return on the wing offers experience and danger out wide, while Edwill van der Merwe retains the No 14 jersey. It does help soften the blow, but the team loses an in-form attacking option who has been influential throughout their recent Stormers double-header.

A Stronger Side Than Last Week, But Still A Patchwork Lineup

Although not at full strength, the matchday squad is slightly more robust than the group that faced the Lions. Phepsi Buthelezi reclaims the No 8 jersey, while Jordan Hendrikse reunites with brother Jaden at halfback.

Jurenzo Julius switches to outside centre to make space for his captain, a move that keeps one of the Sharks’ brightest young attacking threats on the park. Siya Masuku will start from the bench after a strong run of form earlier in the competition.

Heritage Round Brings A School Pride Twist

This weekend also marks the competition’s state of origin heritage round, a fan-favourite tradition where players wear the socks of the schools that shaped them. The Sharks’ team sheet proudly lists each player’s alma mater, adding a nostalgic twist to derby week.

It is a reminder of South Africa’s rugby heartbeat: from Glenwood and DHS to Paarl Boys High and Queens College, school colours will run onto Loftus as boldly as franchise colours.

Hollywoodbets Sharks Team To Face The Bulls

Starting XV:
Jaco Williams (Glenwood High), Edwill van der Merwe (Paul Roos Gimnasium), Jurenzo Julius (Paul Roos Gimnasium), Andre Esterhuizen (captain, Hoerskool Klerksdorp), Makazole Mapimpi (Jim Mvabaza Senior Secondary School), Jordan Hendrikse (Glenwood High), Jaden Hendrikse (Glenwood High), Phepsi Buthelezi (DHS), Vincent Tshituka (Northcliff High), Tino Mavesere (Churchill Boys High School, Zimbabwe), Emile van Heerden (Paarl Boys High), Jason Jenkins (St Albans College), Vincent Koch (Huguenot High School), Eduan Swart (Hoerskool Oos Moot), Ox Nche (HTS Louis Botha)

Replacements:
Fez Mbatha (Maritzburg College), Phatu Ganyane (Glenwood High), Hanro Jacobs (Paul Roos Gimnasium), Corne Rahl (Oakdale), Thomas Dyer (Hilton College), Ross Braude (Grey High School), Siya Masuku (Piet Retief High), Yaw Penxe (Queens College)

“Never forget where you came from” 🖤

Thank you to the schools for making this so special! 🥹 pic.twitter.com/97qPaqmUyB

The Sharks (@SharksRugby) February 27, 2026

{Source:SuperSport}

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