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Phepsi Buthelezi, last week’s try-scorer, leads a talented Hollywoodbets Sharks squad as they prepare for their second round of the Investec Champions Cup against the Leicester Tigers at Mattioli Woods Welford Road.
After a physically demanding clash with English rivals Exeter Chiefs in last week’s round one win at Hollywoodbets Kings Park, the Sharks have had to make several lineup changes for Saturday’s match due to player workloads and injuries.
“We’ve encountered a number of significant injuries, which is unfortunate,” commented head coach John Plumtree following the Exeter match.
“However, this challenge allows us to foster our next wave of talent within the team, giving them the opportunity to step up and showcase their abilities. We are dedicated to developing these promising young players, who play a crucial role in our squad and have a strong grasp of our game strategies.”
“This match will pose an exciting challenge for them, and we are fully confident that they will rise to the occasion and make The Sharks family proud.”
The Leicester Tigers pose a formidable challenge, currently sitting third in the Gallagher Premiership. They will be keen to bounce back after suffering a defeat to Bordeaux-Bègles in France during the first round. The game is scheduled to kick off at 7:30 PM (CAT).
Following this match, the Sharks have two remaining fixtures before the New Year. Coach Plumtree noted, “The Sharks medical team is working diligently to prepare the injured players for the upcoming matches against the Vodacom Bulls and DHL Stormers, aiming to field a fully fit and mentally prepared squad to close out the year successfully.”
Hollywoodbets Sharks
- Ntuthuko Mchunu
- Dylan Richardson
- Trevor Nyakane
- Jason Jenkins
- Emile van Heerden
- Phepsi Buthelezi (C)
- Lappies Labuschagne
- Manu Tshituka
- Jaden Hendrikse
- Siya Masuku
- Yaw Penxe
- Francois Venter
- Ethan Hooker
- Eduan Keyter
- Jordan Hendrikse
Replacements
- Ethan Bester
- Phatu Ganyane
- Hanro Jacobs
- Corne’ Rahl
- Tino Mavesere
- Bradley Davids
- Diego Appollis
- Hakeem Kunene
Unavailable players due to injury:
Bongi Mbonambi
Braam Reyneke
Eben Etzebeth
Fez Mbatha
Gerbrandt Grobler
Grant Williams
James Venter
Jurenzo Julius
Khwezi Mona
Lukhanyo Am
Makazole Mapimpi
Marnus Potgieter
Ruan Dreyer
Vincent Koch
Vincent Tshituka
