Keeping Continuity for the Semi-Final:
The Cell C Sharks go into Saturday’s Currie Cup home semi-final against the Blue Bulls at Growthpoint KINGS PARK looking to continue where they left off after 10 straight victories in an impressive run of success during the pool stages of the competition.
Not only will they take confidence out of that, or the fact that they are hosting the game, but head coach Robert du Preez has kept his side largely intact with minimal changes for this clash.
There is just one change to the forwards, Jean-Luc du Preez returns to the starting line-up after playing off the bench last week having been released from the Springboks, swapping places with Jacques Vermeulen. This creates a very mobile, but physical back row that includes his twin brother Daniel and veteran campaigner Keegan Daniel.
There are two changes in the backline, Louis Schreuder returns at scrumhalf in place of Michael Claassens, who, along with Odwa Ndungane, shifts to the bench, with Kobus van Wyk named on the wing.
Du Preez has chosen a 5-3 split amongst the replacements, having loaded the bench with forwards against a team that loves nothing better than physical confrontation.
Admittedly, the Blue Bulls under John Mitchell are a different team, one that has encompassed the 15 man game over forward domination and a kicking flyhalf as the Bulls were known for.
In saying that, the Cell C Sharks have performed admirably this season and accept that all their hard work and accomplishments would come to nought if they don’t push on through this weekend and earn their place in next week’s final (which they would also host, compliments of finishing top of the log.
The match kicks off at 2.30pm on Saturday with tickets still available for the match.
| The Cell C Sharks |
Replacements |
||
| 1 | Thomas du Toit | 16 | Akker van der Merwe |
| 2 | Franco Marais | 17 | Juan Schoeman |
| 3 | Ross Geldenhuys | 18 | John-Hubert Meyer |
| 4 | Tyler Paul | 19 | Jean Droste |
| 5 | Ruan Botha (Captain) | 20 | Jacques Vermeulen |
| 6 | Keegan Daniel | 21 | Michael Claassens |
| 7 | Jean-Luc du Preez | 22 | Tristan Blewett |
| 8 | Daniel du Preez | 23 | Odwa Ndungane |
| 9 | Louis Schreuder | ||
| 10 | Curwin Bosch | ||
| 11 | Sbu Nkosi | ||
| 12 | Marius Louw | ||
| 13 | Lukhanyo Am | ||
| 14 | Kobus van Wyk | ||
| 15 | Garth April |
The post Keeping Continuity for the Semi-Final appeared first on Sharks Rugby.
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