Francois Venter to lead Sharks against Munster in URC opener

There's been a long break in competitive rugby for the Sharks, but the time is now upon us for the action to resume once more and excitement levels couldn't be higher. The team composition and coaching reflect both stability as well as an injection of new ideas, and this is something they will look to demonstrate from the get go according to attack coach Dave Williams.

"With John Plumtree coming in, it's been about formulating a new Sharks way of doing things, with a massive focus on and off the field," said Williams.

"Target-wise, it's about us wanting to portray what The Sharks want to be about, so when people watch us - whether it's at the stadium or elsewhere - they're going to see a team that's got ambition and plays with relentless intensity.

"Winning competitive moments in the game is massive, but in that, we want to display the new way of what this brand is all about.

"It's at this time when the group looks at its senior, experienced players for leadership, as the flow of the game goes on, having those guys in the mix and giving their feedback is something we can tap into as a group."

Newly appointed captain Francois Venter admits that he is proud of the leadership role he has been entrusted with, and has enjoyed working with the new head coach.

"It's a massive honour for me to be named tour captain, it comes with a huge responsibility but I'm honoured to be part of this group. Fortunately, we have great leaders who can give me a hand.

"I just want to give my all for the team."

On John Plumtree's philosophy, he explains that it is all about "Getting a higher purpose in the team, that was one of our biggest focus points, and then connection, we're building something new in the way we play and the way we portray ourselves to the fans.

"Coach John has made a massive impact on everyone, he commands respect and the environment is great. For now, it™s up to us to go out there and perform."

Kick-off for Saturday's clash is at 6.15pm.

Sharks - 15 Boeta Chamberlain, 14 Werner Kok, 13 Murray Koster, 12 Francois Venter (c), 11 Marnus Potgieter, 10 Curwin Bosch, 9 Cameron Wright, 8 George Cronje, 7 Phepsi Buthelezi, 6 James Venter, 5 Reniel Hugo, 4 Emile van Heerden, 3 Coenie Oosthuizen, 2 Kerron van Vuuren, 1 Ntuthuko Mchunu.

Replacements - 16 Dan Jooste, 17 Dian Bleuler 18 Hanro Jacobs, 19 Vincent Tshituka, 20 Sikhumbuzo Notshe, 21 Zee Mkhabela, 22 Rohan Janse van Rensburg, 23 Aphelele Fassi

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