sportskeeda
This Saturday, the Hollywoodbets Sharks will present a Springbok-laden lineup as they prepare to face the Exeter Chiefs in the first round of the Investec Champions Cup at Hollywoodbets Kings Park.
Eben Etzebeth makes his return as captain for the clash against their English counterparts, with the Hollywoodbets Sharks intent on asserting their dominance and safeguarding their home turf against Exeter.
“This match is vital, and we know we are up against a formidable challenge this Saturday,” remarked loose forward Phepsi Buthelezi.
“We’ve worked hard to prepare ourselves and are eager to embrace the challenge.”
The team is in excellent form after recent outings and is determined to maintain their winning momentum.
“We have gained a lot of confidence from our performances in the VURC, and now it’s time to translate that success into this new tournament. The nature of this competition is a bit different, as we are up against teams from various countries, but it fundamentally comes down to executing within the lines, and we want to bring that confidence along with us.”
Gearing up for Exeter, he acknowledges their strength as an opponent for the upcoming clash.
“We view Exeter as a top-quality team. We’ve analyzed their gameplay, and they have a robust strategy, emphasizing ball-in-hand play. They are well-coached and feature many skilled players.”
Hollywoodbets Sharks
15. Aphelele Fassi
14. Eduan Keyter
13. Ethan Hooker
12. Andre Esterhuizen
11. Makazole Mapimpi
10. Jordan Hendrikse
9. Grant Williams
8. Siya Kolisi
7. Vincent Tshituka
6. James Venter
5. Emile van Heerden
4. Eben Etzebeth (Captain)
3. Trevor Nyakane
2. Bongi Mbonambi
1. Ox Nche
Replacements
16. Dylan Richardson
17. Ntuthuko Mchunu
18. Hanro Jacobs
19. Jason Jenkins
20. Phepsi Buthelezi
21. Jaden Hendrikse
22. Siya Masuku
23. Francois Venter
The following players were excluded from selection due to injuries:
– Ruan Dreyer
– Fez Mbatha
– Khwezi Mona
– Marnus Potgieter
– Abraham Reyneke
– Lukhanyo Am
– Gerbrandt Grobler
