Strong team for Munster

Plum has been able to select a very strong team for the URC quarter final on Saturday. The only two first choice players unavailable due to injury is Grant Williams and Siya Masuku (who in my opinion should be the first choice half backs if available).

Munster has managed to beat the Stormers in the 2023 final in Cape Town – and also have a decent record in games played in SA. So home advantage will not count for much for the Sharks. They have somehow managed to keep winning games they should have lost, but they will have to cut down on the errors and poor decisions.

At least with the entire first choice pack available the scrums and lineouts should improve. Likewise with Am back at 13 the back line has a more settled feel. A lot will depend on the brothers at 9 and 10 – they will have to take control of the game.

1. Ox Nche
2. Bongi Mbonambi
3. Vincent Koch
4. Eben Etzebeth (Captain)
5. Jason Jenkins
6. James Venter
7. Vincent Tshituka
8. Siya Kolisi (v/c)
9. Jaden Hendrikse
10. Jordan Hendrikse
11. Makazole Mapimpi
12. Andre Esterhuizen
13. Lukhanyo Am*
14. Ethan Hooker
15. Aphelele Fassi

Replacements

16. Fez Mbatha
17. Ntuthuko Mchunu
18. Hanro Jacobs
19. Emile van Heerden
20. Phepsi Buthelezi
21. Bradley Davids
22. Francois Venter
23. Yaw Penxe