The Lions will host Leinster and the Sharks welcome Ospreys on the opening weekend of the 2026-27 United Rugby Championship, with the Stormers and Bulls set to start away from home.
The Sharks have looked overseas to fill the void at No.9, signing scrumhalf Ivan van Zyl from Saracens.
Sharks boss JP Pietersen is feeling positive about the future of the franchise after several youngsters shone brightly at the back end of the United Rugby Championship.
The United Rugby Championship quarterfinals are now confirmed with eight teams from across Ireland, South Africa, Scotland and Wales reaching the playoffs, which take place on 29 and 30 May.
Junior Boks flyhalf Vusi Moyo is set to make his URC debut for the Sharks when they host Zebre in Durban on Saturday in their final fixture of the season.
Benetton flyhalf Jacob Umaga has been suspended for four matches following a dangerous tackle on Sharks winger Makazole Mapimpi.