The Hollywoodbets Sharks will take continuity in team selection as well as momentum and confidence into Saturday’s Carling Currie Cup Final against the Fidelity ADT Lions at Emirates Airline Park.
An eight game unbeaten streak, including a win over the Lions towards the end of July – the Joburg team’s only loss in the pool stages – provides the team with the perfect build-up for the big finale.
Hollywoodbets Sharks assistant coach Warren Whitely admits that the team is in a good space, but acknowledges the sizable challenge that lies ahead.
“We’re proud of the effort and character shown in last week’s semi-final and now we’re in the final which is really special, a great opportunity for us,” he points out.
“We’ve built nicely over the last few weeks, the Lions are also a great side, that’s why they’re top of the log and they’ve proved that throughout the competition.
“It’s going to be a massive test for us, but one we’re really looking forward to. This is the final and we’re treating it with respect; we want to honour the tradition of the Currie Cup.
“We’re looking forward to the challenge, the Lions are a quality side who got the better of us a couple of times, they have a massive, dominant pack and some explosive backs and we can’t wait to get out there.”
Head coach John Plumtree has largely stuck with last week’s semi-final team, making just two changes, one amongst the forwards and the other in the backline.
Plumtree has named Emmanuel Tshituka at eighthman for Phepsi Buthelezi after playing off the bench last week, while Jurenzo Julius returns at outside centre to partner with Springbok Andre Esterhuizen in the midfield.
The Hollywoodbets Sharks
- Ntuthuko Mchunu
- Fez Mbatha
- Hanro Jacobs
- Corne’ Rahl
- Emile van Heerden
- James Venter
- Vincent Tshituka (Captain)
- Emmanuel Tshituka
- Bradley Davids
- Siya Masuku
- Ethan Hooker
- Andre Esterhuizen
- Jurenzo Julius
- Eduan Keyter
- Jordan Hendrikse
Replacements
- Dylan Richardson
- Trevor Nyakane
- Mawande Mdande
- Jason Jenkins
- Gerbrandt Grobler
- Tinotenda Mavesere
- Tian Meyer
- Lionel Cronje
INJURY LIST
Braam Reyneke
Dan Jooste
Diego Appollis
Hakeem Kunene
Ig Prinsloo
Khwezi Mona
Marnus Potgieter
Phepsi Buthelezi
Siya Ngiza
Thomas Dyer
Yaw Penxe
The post Team Release: Finals Time appeared first on The Sharks Durban.
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Quick Durban KwaZulu-Natal Fact: From the beautiful buildings of yesteryear, to Durban’s brand new architectural icon – Moses Mabhdia Stadium. Built for the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup, the stadium was designed by German firm, GMP Architekten. Named for the former secretary general of the South African Communist Party, the stadium boasts state-of-the-art technology which maximizes light, protects spectators from wind, and still allows a free view outwards. Situated on a raised platform to enhance its visibility, the stadium can be seen from as far away as Ushaka Marine World. The iconic arch houses a skycar which gives unparalleled views of the city and coastline.
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