Springbok star Makazole Mapimpi has been handed a hefty three-game suspension following an eye gouge in the Sharks' United Rugby Championship match against Cardiff.
Sharks head coach John Plumtree pointed to the success of the junior structures within the franchise that are churning out quality players.
With the United Rugby Championship now taking a two-week break, the Sharks can reflect on a fine run of form in the competition which seems them finish this block in fourth place on the log.
The Sharks welcome back a few players to balance those lost to injury as they turn their focus to the United Rugby Championship and their week 10 clash with Cardiff on Saturday.
The Sharks were put to the sword by Bordeaux in their Champions Cup clash on Sunday, losing 66-12 as the infallible Damian Penaud ran in six tries.
Springbok captain Siya Kolisi once again leads the Sharks this weekend when they play their final Champions Cup pool game against Bordeaux Begles at the Stade Chaban-Delmas in France.