Hollywoodbets Sharks’ head coach JP Pietersen confirmed today that Aphelele Fassi is currently sidelined with a serious shoulder injury sustained during the Hollywoodbets Sharks' United Rugby Championship (URC) match against the Lions on 21 February 2026.
Fassi has been ruled out of the upcoming clash against the Vodacom Bulls at Loftus Versfeld this Saturday. Jaco Williams has been moved from wing to fullback to cover his absence.
Fassi is expected to be out for approximately six to eight weeks. However, if the specialist recommends an operation, his layoff will be significantly longer than six weeks.
“He hurt his shoulder, and I think he saw the surgeon this week. As we speak, Fassi is consulting with a specialist. I don’t have all the information right now, but at this point, he could be out for six weeks; if they operate, it would be longer. I don’t know. I think I will know more about him later today.”
This latest blow follows a difficult period for the 28-year-old "Weekend Special," who previously underwent ankle surgery in September 2025 and missed the end-of-year international tour and has also recently lost game time due to a concussion.