The Hollywoodbets Sharks open their Carling Currie Cup cross-group phase this Saturday when they take on the Toyota Free State Cheetahs in Bloemfontein.
Free State is currently in third place on the overall log, with the Hollywoodbets Sharks chasing from two positions down, looking to continue their good run of form lately that has seen them go three matches unbeaten.
Two wins and a draw in the past three outings have propelled the Hollywoodbets Sharks up the log and a date with Free State, always tough, awaits this weekend but offers the opportunity for this young side to continue their growth and development.
On the evidence of last week’s: showing when they scored six tries in their 40-21 victory over the Suzuki Griquas at Hollywoodbets Kings Park, this team has really started proving their worth and they will use this game to keep developing.
Head coach JP Pietersen has made just four changes to last week’s side, naming a new look front row in Dian Bleuler, Dan Jooste and Kabous Bezuidenhout for Abraham Reyneke, Ethan Bester and Mawande Mdanda.
There is just one change to the backline where Alwayno Visagie replaces Jurenzo Julius at the centre.
Looking ahead to the match with enthusiasm, Pietersen acknowledges that this is an important game for his team.
After a rousing victory over the Suzuki Griquas last week, it’s vital that if this team is to be a serious contender, they must continue the good form they’ve shown recently.
“What a nice challenge for this young team, going to Bloem and to test the character of the group more,” he explains.
“The more we get tested, the better we will get and that’s the thing with rugby: always being up for the challenge which is something they have shown this season.”
The Hollywoodbets Sharks XV
- Dian Bleuler
- Dan Jooste
- Kabous Bezuidenhout
- Bathobele Hlekani
- Reniel Hugo
- Tino Mavesere
- Jannes Potgieter
- Nick Hatton (Capt)
- Jaden Hendrikse
- Lionel Cronje
- Yaw Penxe
- Alwayno Visagie
- Litelihle Bester
- Eduan Keyter
- Hakeem Kunene
Replacements:
- Bryce Calvert
- Braam Reyneke
- Mawande Mdanda
- Coetzee le Roux
- Hennie Sieberhagen
- Siya Ningiza
- Bradley Davids
- Tiaan Swanepoel