The Sharks are diving into the deep end of the Vodacom URC pool without their twin flyhalf fins, Jordan Hendrikse and Siya Masuku, who are both sidelined due to injury. As they gear up to take on the Glasgow Warriors this Friday, the squad's injury woes and the absence of several Springboks paint a stern test right at the season's kick-off.
Despite these setbacks, the team isn't exactly heading into battle unarmed. The leadership core remains robust with Vincent Tshituka at the helm, flanked by stalwarts like Lukhanyo Am, Jaden Hendrikse, Jason Jenkins, and Swys Venter. This crew of experienced players is tasked with steering the ship through the turbulent waters of the upcoming European tour.
"Glasgow are obviously a tough side, a champion team two years ago and always tough to beat at home, so it’s going to be a massive challenge for the boys,"
admitted Coach John Plumtree. His realistic yet optimistic outlook doesn't end there, as he acknowledges the hefty challenges lying in wait with the Dragons and Leinster following the opener.
The injury list doesn't make pretty reading, stretching beyond the flyhalves to include Aphelele Fassi and Trevor Nyakane among others. However, Plumtree views this adversity as an opportunity to test the depth of their squad and to foster team cohesion early on. "We’re ready to go and looking forward to getting away and spending some time together," he optimistically noted.
Here's a peek at the Sharks' 29-man armor for the tour: Forwards – Bathobele Hlekani, Cameron Dawson, Cebo Dlamini, Dian Bleuler, Eduan Swart, Manu Tshituka, Fez Mbatha, Lee-Marvin Mazibuko, Marvin Orie, Mawande Mdanda, Nick Hatton, Phepsi Buthelezi, Ruan Dreyer, Simphiwe Matanzima, Tino Mavesere, Vincent Tshituka (captain), Willem van den Hever. Backs – Ceano Everson, Christie Grobbelaar, Edwill van der Merwe, Francois Venter, Hakeem Kunene, Jaden Hendrikse, Jurenzo Julius, Lukhanyo Am, Phiko Sobahle, Jean Smith, Ross Braude, Yaw Penxe.
With such a lineup, the Sharks might just have enough bite to compensate for their missing stars. As they embark on this European odyssey, the blend of seasoned leaders and fresh blood promises some thrilling rugby action. Let the games begin!
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The Sharks are diving into the deep end of the Vodacom URC pool without their twin flyhalf fins, Jordan Hendrikse and Siya Masuku, who are both sidelined due to injury. As they gear up to take on the Glasgow Warriors this Friday, the squad's injury woes and the absence of several Springboks paint a stern test right at the season's kick-off.
Despite these setbacks, the team isn't exactly heading into battle unarmed. The leadership core remains robust with Vincent Tshituka at the helm, flanked by stalwarts like Lukhanyo Am, Jaden Hendrikse, Jason Jenkins, and Swys Venter. This crew of experienced players is tasked with steering the ship through the turbulent waters of the upcoming European tour.
"Glasgow are obviously a tough side, a champion team two years ago and always tough to beat at home, so it’s going to be a massive challenge for the boys,"
admitted Coach John Plumtree. His realistic yet optimistic outlook doesn't end there, as he acknowledges the hefty challenges lying in wait with the Dragons and Leinster following the opener.The injury list doesn't make pretty reading, stretching beyond the flyhalves to include Aphelele Fassi and Trevor Nyakane among others. However, Plumtree views this adversity as an opportunity to test the depth of their squad and to foster team cohesion early on. "We’re ready to go and looking forward to getting away and spending some time together," he optimistically noted.
Here's a peek at the Sharks' 29-man armor for the tour: Forwards – Bathobele Hlekani, Cameron Dawson, Cebo Dlamini, Dian Bleuler, Eduan Swart, Manu Tshituka, Fez Mbatha, Lee-Marvin Mazibuko, Marvin Orie, Mawande Mdanda, Nick Hatton, Phepsi Buthelezi, Ruan Dreyer, Simphiwe Matanzima, Tino Mavesere, Vincent Tshituka (captain), Willem van den Hever. Backs – Ceano Everson, Christie Grobbelaar, Edwill van der Merwe, Francois Venter, Hakeem Kunene, Jaden Hendrikse, Jurenzo Julius, Lukhanyo Am, Phiko Sobahle, Jean Smith, Ross Braude, Yaw Penxe.
With such a lineup, the Sharks might just have enough bite to compensate for their missing stars. As they embark on this European odyssey, the blend of seasoned leaders and fresh blood promises some thrilling rugby action. Let the games begin!