Lengthy lay-off for Bok wing
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Sharks head coach Robert du Preez has made minimal changes to his team for Saturday’s Super Rugby Round 19 clash with the Jaguares in Durban.
Jacobus van Wyk replaces the injured Sibusiso Nkosi on the wing.
Scans have indicated that Nkosi has a syndesmosis sprain on his left ankle and will be out for approximately eight to 12 weeks.
It means the Bok wing is in doubt for this year's Rugby Championship.
The good news for the Sharks is that Daniel du Preez has been cleared to play and takes his place at No.8.
In the front row, Tendai Mtawarira returns in place of Juan Schoeman after having his workload was reduced last week.
The Sharks are currently fighting out with the Melbourne Rebels for the final spot in this year's Super Rugby play-offs.
The Durban side will need the Highlanders to beat the Rebels before their must-win clash later on Saturday against the Jaguares.
Sharks: 15 Curwin Bosch, 14 Jacobus van Wyk, 13 Lukhanyo Am, 12 Andre Esterhuizen, 11 Lwazi Mvovo, 10 Robert du Preez, 9 Louis Schreuder, 8 Daniel du Preez, 7 Jacques Vermeulen, 6 Philip van der Walt, 5 Ruan Botha (captain), 4 Tyler Paul, 3 Thomas du Toit, 2 Armand van der Merwe, 1 Tendai Mtawarira.
Replacements: 16 Mahlatse Ralepelle, 17 Juan Schoeman, 18 John-Hubert Meyer, 19 Hyron Andrews, 20 Wian Vosloo, 21 Cameron Wright, 22 Marius Louw, 23 Makazole Mapimpi.
Date: Saturday, July 14
Venue: Kings Park, Durban
Kick-off: 17.15 (12.15 Argentina time; 15.15 GMT)
Referee: Rasta Rasivhenge (South Africa)
Assistant referees: Egon Seconds (South Africa), Archie Sehlako (South Africa)
TMO: Willie Vos (South Africa)
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