Veteran Bok to lead Sharks

The Sharks XV - to take on the Free State Cheetahs in Bloemfontein on Friday - is filled with experience and a strong blend of youth.

With the senior team playing the Super Rugby quarterfinal against the Lions in Johannesburg the following day, the Sharks'Currie Cup team will be without a number of frontline players.  This

Daniel's experience as well as versatility makes him the ideal leader for this side that is very well-balanced.

Another Bok in the side is veteran wing Odwa Ndungane.

Sibusiso Sithole, at outside center, will be called on to rally the young backline and provide calmness and leadership.

New signings Tyler Paul and Ross Geldenhuys, who both played Super Rugby for the Kings, have been named in the team.  

Geldenhuys, has signed a one-year contract with the Sharks, and will bring massive experience to the front row for this match.

Sharks: 15 Courtney Winnaar, 14 Odwa Ndungane, 13 Sibusiso Sithole, 12 Marius Louw, 11 Illunga Mukendi, 10 Benhard Janse van Rensburg, 9 Rowan Gouws, 8 Keegan Daniel (captain), 7 Jacques Vermeulen, 6 Khaya Majola, 5 Hyron Andrews, 4 Wian Vosloo, 3 Ross Geldenhuys, 2 Kieron van Vuuren, 1 Mzamo Majola.

Replacements: 16 Andrew du Plessis, 17 Thierry Kounga, 18 Tyler Paul, 19 Bandisa Ndlovu, 20 Cameron Wright, 21 Brandan Bailing, 22 Inny Radebe.

Date: Friday, July 21

Venue: Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein

Kick-off: 19.00 (17.00 GMT)

Referee: Jadezweni Cwengile

Assistant referees: Jaco Pretorius, Jaco Kotze.  

TMO: JJ Wagner