Eben’s first start for the Sharks

Sean Everett has shored up the Sharks side with his available Boks including Eben Etzebeth that will make his debut in a Sharks jersey. New recruit Vincent Tshituka will feature in the number 7 jersey.

Midfield has been reshuffled with red-carded Rohan JvR replaced by Marnus Potgieter. Jaden Hendrikse starts in place of the injured Grant Williams and Anthony Volminck comes in for Thaakir Abrahams.

The Sharks at times showed great attacking skills against Leinster but were really poor defensively (and also exiting after receiving a kick off). This was very evident with poor tackling out wide, but the Sharks also allowed Leinster to get on the front foot across the field too often. Defense has reportedly been the focus in training this week.

1. Ntuthuko Mchunu

2. Kerron van Vuuren

3. Thomas du Toit (c)

4. Eben Etzebeth

5. Hyron Andrews

6. Dylan Richardson

7. Vincent Tshituka

8. Phepsi Buthelezi

9. Jaden Hendrikse

10. Boeta Chamberlain

11. Anthony Volmink

12. Ben Tapuai

13. Marnus Potgieter

14. Werner Kok

15. Aphelele Fassi

Replacements

16. Bongi Mbonambi

17. Ox Nche

18. Carlu Sadie

19. Reniel Hugo

20. Siya Kolisi

21. Sikhumbuzo Notshe

22. Cameron Wright

23. Makazole Mapimpi