Sharks bolster travelling squad for Connacht test despite Springbok absences

Sharks head coach John Plumtree named his squad for their trip to Galway for a tricky United Rugby Championship Round 6 clash against Connacht on Saturday, which will be followed by an even more daunting Champions Cup battle against powerhouse Toulouse. 

Scrumhalf Grant Williams and wing Edwill van der Merwe were included in the travelling squad, after they were released by the Springboks ahead of Saturday’s Test against Wales.

The Sharks will, however, have to cope without stalwarts Siya Kolisi, Eben Etzebeth, Bongi Mbonambi, Ethan Hooker and Andre Esterhuizen, who are all likely to be key figures in a depleted Bok squad for the final Test of the Outbound Tour in Cardiff.

Springbok Ox Nche was also sent home from the tour early after picking up an injury. The prop is targeting a return to action in January.

Even without those players, Plumtree has a host of international stars to choose from. Loose froward Vincent Tshituka, Makazole Mapimpi, Jaden and Jordan Hendrickse all boast plenty of experience.  

The Sharks have also brought in veteran Griquas stalwart George Whitehead as flyhalf cover. The 36-year-old dictated play with ball in hand and off the boot – proving deadly accurate off the tee – and was a calming presence in the Griquas backline in their victorious Currie Cup campaign.  

He will be hoping to bring those qualities to the Sharks backline, should he be given the chance as the Durban side look to kick on from their only win in five URC matches so far this season, just before the international break. 

Plumtree has paid the price for the poor start to the campaign, with the announcement that he will step down at the end of the season.

Things don’t get any easier for the big Kiwi with Connacht having won three of their last five matches, and the Sharks winless against French giants Toulouse, who are among the teams to beat in the top-tier Champions Cup competition.  

Sharks squad travelling to Ireland

Forwards: Cebo Dlamini, Eduan Swart, Emile van Heerden, Fez Mbatha, Hanro Jacobs, Jason Jenkins, Lee-Marvin Mazibuko, Manu Tshituka, Marvin Orie, Matt Romao, Mawande Ndanda, Nick Hatton, Phatu Ganyane, Phepsi Buthelezi, Vincent Tshituka, Willem van den Hever.

Backs: Edwill van der Merwe, Grant Williams, Makazole Mapimpi, Jean Smith, George Whitehead, Francois Venter, Jadon Hendrickse, Jordan Hendrickse, Jurenzo Julius, Ross Braude, Hakeem Kunene, Le Roux Malan, Yaw Penxe.