Newly appointed interim head coach JP Pietersen said the match against Saracens on Saturday at 17:15 (SA Time) is a crucial "new beginning" for the Sharks, which is under pressure after a disappointing start to their season.
"When I was asked to help the Sharks out, it was easy to say yes. This organisation has done so much for me. I’m excited for the challenge, and I believe we can turn things around. The players had some honest conversations this week, and the energy’s been good."
Pietersen said everybody starts with a clean slate and less focus on past results, urging the team to restore pride and belief. He views this game as a statement match that the Sharks "have to win" to salvage their Champions Cup campaign and build confidence ahead of a significant URC derby the following week.
He acknowledged the daunting nature of his first game in charge, especially against a physical Saracens pack, and in the absence of key players like Eben Etzebeth (suspended) and Ox Nche (injured). He stressed the need for the team to come out firing, as another loss could severely impact team morale.
The Sharks welcome back a host of Springboks, including Bongi Mbonambi, Kolisi, Grant Williams, Ethan Hooker, and Aphelele Fassi, who returns from an ankle injury.
"For me, Andre Esterhuizen was an easy choice as captain. He’s an old Sharks man who knows this place inside out. The way he plays, he asks a lot from the players around him. Siya has huge responsibilities with the Springboks, but this was simply the right role for Andre, who will captain the Sharks for the rest of the 2025/26 season."
"It was a disruptive week with the travel from France. George Whitehead has been here [in Durban] running the show, training with the group, while Jordan Hendrikse only arrived back on Tuesday. It’s a great opportunity for George, and Jordan will add impact off the bench."
"Fassi’s been training with us for three weeks. He’s fit, mentally in a good space and excited. Will he be a little rusty? Maybe. But he’s experienced enough to handle it."
"Ethan has always been a centre, although it feels like he’s always helping out on wing, and he does a phenomenal job on wing. But we want to give Ethan a chance at [outside] centr,e and I think it’s a great opportunity for him to play there."
Some pundits predict a tight game, with one forecasting a narrow Sharks win by five points, highlighting the potential for a new coach's voice to spark belief in the team.
"Saracens are a world-class side, but we want to show our fight. We’ve been lacking a good performance. Hopefully, we can deliver an 80-minute one that makes our fans proud."