Siya Masuku will make his first start for a Sharks team captained by Bongi Mbonambi in the clash with the Lions in Johannesburg on Saturday.
John Plumtree has made no fewer than 10 changes to the Sharks’ starting lineup, as Springboks Lukhanyo Am, Makazole Mapimpi, Jaden Hendrikse and Ox Nche are among those rested for the trip to Ellis Park.
World Cup winner Mbonambi – fresh from making a return from a long-term injury against the DHL Stormers two weeks ago – captains the Sharks in Am’s absence, with former Junior Springbok centre Ethan Hooker taking the Springbok’s place in midfield.
Aphiwe Dyantyi and Eduan Keyter are both brought in on the wings in place of Mapimpi and Werner Kok, with fullback Aphelele Fassi one of only two backs retaining their starting place.
Grant Williams and Masuku are partnered at halfback. Masuku will be running on for his first start after making his Sharks debut off the bench against the Stormers. It will be just the second time this season that Curwin Bosch is not in the Sharks’ No 10 jersey.
Flank James Venter and lock Gerbrandt Grobler are the only forwards who start again after facing the Stormers.
Venter is joined in the back row by Vincent Tshituka, who faces his former side, and No 8 George Cronje.
Grobler forms the second row combo with youngster Corne Rahl, while Mbonambi is joined in the front row by Ntuthuko Mchunu and Coenie Oosthuizen.
Photo: Steve Haag Sports/Gallo Images
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Src: sarugbymag.co.za
