Alberts vs Vermeulen

Two of South Africa's most physical forwards will collide at Kings Park on Saturday, writes SIMON BORCHARDT.

Willem Alberts has bashed his way over the advantage line for the Sharks all season and lived up to his nickname of 'The Bone Collector' on defence.

Alberts played six matches on the blindside flank (his preferred position) and five at No 4 lock before moving to No 8 for the matches against the Crusaders and Blues – both of which the Sharks won. He will start there again against the Stormers, who have a physical eighthman of their own in Duane Vermeulen.

The Bok incumbent has been in excellent form for a Stormers team that has struggled for most of the season. Like Alberts, he makes an impact with and without the ball, and he's also done well at lineout time, stealing five opposition throws (the sixth most by any player in the tournament).

What happens when an immovable object meets an irresistible force? We'll find out in Durban.

Photo: Gavin Barker/Sebelo Mngoma/BackpagePix

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