Sharks reveal strong team for Lions clash

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Sharks have revealed their team to face the Lions in their opening match of Super Rugby Unlocked in Durban on Friday.

Thirteen players who featured in Saturday’s Green and Gold match have been named by head coach Sean Everitt for the clash, including the entire front row.

Ox Nche, Dylan Richardson and Thomas du Toit will all front up against the Lions, while lock Hyron Andrews together with loose forwards James Venter and Sikhumbuzo Notche complete the inclusion of starting forwards.

Five of the seven backline players named for Friday’s game also played in last weekend’s match.

The halfback pairing of Sanele Nohamba and Curwin Bosch are joined by Werner Kok, captain Lukhanyo Am and fullback Manie Libbok.

Playing off the bench, JJ van der Mescht and Jeremy Ward will no doubt want to show that their experience in Green and Gold only adds to what they bring to the table.

Sharks: 15 Manie Libbok, 14 JP Pietersen, 13 Lukhanyo Am (captain), 12 Marius Louw, 11 Werner Kok, 10 Curwin Bosch, 9 Sanele Nohamba, 8 Sikhumbuzo Notshe, 7 Phepsi Buthelezi, 6 James Venter, 5 Hyron Andrews, 4 Ruben van Heerden, 3 Thomas du Toit, 2 Dylan Richardson, 1 Ox Nche.

Replacements: 16 Dan Jooste, 17 Mzamo Majola, 18 John-Hubert Meyer, 19 JJ van der Mescht, 20 Mpilo Gumede, 21 Grant Williams, 22 Jeremy Ward, 23 Thaakir Abrahams.

Date: Friday, October 9

Venue: Kings Park, Durban

Kick-off: 19.00 (17.00 GMT)

Referee: AJ Jacobs

Assistant referees: Paul Mente, Archie Sehlako

TMO: Rasta Rasivhenge