Head coach Joey Mongalo has selected blockbuster midfielder Rohan Janse van Rensburg for the Sharks against the Griffons in the Currie Cup in Welkom on Friday.
The one-Test-cap Springbok slots in at his familiar inside centre position, alongside Murray Koster, while Vodacom United Rugby Championship regulars Ntuthuko Mchunu, Vincent Tshituka and Sikhumbuzo Notshe are in line to add major firepower off the bench.
The Durbanites will make the trip to the northern Free State looking to maintain their grip on a home semi-final as the Currie Cup nears the knockout stages.
Forwards coach Philip Lemmer acknowledges that his charges have been in sterling form of late with a run of five straight victories after 11 rounds in the competition.
STATE OF THE CURRIE CUP: Battle lines are drawn
“The forwards have put in a lot of hard work, one thing they pride themselves on is being obedient to the call and to the system and we know that amongst the forwards in particular, unity is key. If eight guys aren’t doing the same thing at the same time, that’s when you get exposed,” Lemmer said.
“The senior guys have led the way and taken ownership and they make sure that the work we do during the week shows on the weekend. They know that it is their job and responsibility to give the backs the best possible ball. So far that’s going well.”
He added: “Finishing the race to the end and that this week’s game is one we have to do well in. The Griffons, in Welkom, are tough. They beat the Bulls there, Province only just won there, so we acknowledge that it is a difficult game for us.
“It’s important that we do the job well this weekend.”
Your Cell C Sharks Currie Cup team to play the Novavit Griffons ?
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— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) May 25, 2023
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