Springboks return to Sharks' Currie Cup lineup

JP Pietersen who has done a sterling job has returned to his Under 21 duties with their campaign continuing again this week, while head coach John Plumtree takes over the reins for the remainder of the tournament.

Plumtree has brought in some of his players currently in United Rugby Championship preseason training, as well as selecting new signings Ruan Dreyer at prop, Emmanuel Tshituka at flank and Jordan Hendrikse at fullback.

Nick Hatton continues in his role as captain, leading the side as he has so well all season. He will call on the experience of players both in the starting lineup and off the bench, certainly the return of wing Makazole Mapimpi from the Springboks is a big boost, as are the likes of young Ethan Hooker, James Venter, Fez Mbatha, Dylan Richardson and Vincent Tshituka.

Saturday's match at Kings Park kicks off at 13h00.

Sharks - 15 Jordan Hendrikse, 14 Eduan Keyter, 13 Ethan Hooker, 12 Francois Venter, 11 Makazole Mapimpi, 10 Lionel Cronje, 9 Bradley Davids, 8 Nick Hatton (c), 7 Emmanuel Tshituka, 6 James Venter, 5 Reniel Hugo, 4 Corne' Rahl, 3 Ruan Dreyer, 2 Fez Mbatha, 1 Abraham Reyneke

Replacements: 16 Dylan Richardson, 17 Dian Bleuler, 18 Hanro Jacobs, 19 Emile van Heerden, 20 Vincent Tshituka, 21 Tian Meyer, 22 Siya Masuku, 23 Lili Bester

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