Am and Ox rested for Lions

The Sharks travel to Johannesburg pretty much playing for pride, practicing for the Challenge Cup and giving more game time to youngsters. Ntuthuko Mchunu have the big boots of Ox Nche to fill to keep the scrum up along with Bongi and Coenie Oosthuizen. Jaden Hendrikse, Lukhanyo Am and Makazole Mapimpi are all rested – not sure why Am and Mapimpi who missed a number of games due to injuries at the World Cup need rest at this stage.

George Cronje gets a chance at 8 while Siya Masuku can hopefully build on his good showing against the Stormers. Aphiwe Dyantyi will want to improve on his general handling skills. Also would be good to see if Ethan Hooker and Eduan Keyter can contribute as much to the team as Am and Kok.

The Sharks will be desperate to add another W to their results – (L L L L L W L L L L) looks pretty dismal for this team on paper. The Lions can still make the top 8 and will have everything to play for.

1. Ntuthuko Mchunu

2. Bongi Mbonambi (c)

3. Coenie Oosthuizen

4. Corne Rahl

5. Gerbrandt Grobler

6. James Venter

7. Vincent Tshituka

8. George Cronje

9. Grant Williams

10. Siya Masuka

11. Aphiwe Dyantyi

12. Francois Venter

13. Ethan Hooker

14. Eduan Keyter

15. Aphelele Fassi

Replacements

16. Fez Mbatha

17. Dian Bleuler

18. Khwezi Mona

19. Jeandre Labuschagne

20. Tino Mavesere

21. Phepsi Buthelezi

22. Tiaan Fourie

23. Curwin Bosch