Beast to captain Sharks against Kings

It is a fitting acknowledgement of his contribution to the team, as well as the respect he is held in – both by team-mates and opponents – and his lead by example role will certainly set the tone for this crucial match.

Getting their campaign off to a solid start is crucial. Success from the get go produces confidence and an opportunity to build momentum as the season progresses.  There is little doubt that the three major focus points will be on getting the basics right, not surrendering the ball when they have possession, and when they don’t, delivering uncompromising defence of their line.

Coenie Oosthuizen (tighthead) and Willie Le Roux (fullback) are the new faces in the team and Director of Rugby Gary Gold has not hesitated in selecting them. The pair will add considerable experience gained at an international level.

Lock Hyron Andrews is the only unfamiliar face at this level, but he has been biding his time coming through the ranks and will relish the opportunity that has come his way.  Twins Daniel and Jean-Luc du Preez are fairly new to the set-up but proving to be men for the big occasion and the pair will certainly look to dominate.

Andre Esterhuizen and Paul Jordaan continue a midfield partnership that has really flourished over the last few months and could provide lots of spark on attack, while both are exceptional defenders.

The match kicks off at 15h05 on Saturday and expectations from the fans and players will not be too dissimilar – to deliver a performance to be proud of.

Cell C Sharks (15-1): Willie le Roux, Odwa Ndungane, Paul Jordaan, Andre Esterhuizen, Lwazi Mvovo, Joe Pietersen, Cobus Reinach, Daniel du Preez, Jean-Luc du Preez, Marcell Coetzee, Hyron Andrews, Etienne Oosthuizen, Coenie Oosthuizen, Franco Marais, Tendai Mtawarira (captain). 

Replacements: Kyle Cooper, Juan Schoeman, Lourens Adriaanse, Dave McDuling, Philip van der Walt, Michael Claassens, Garth April, S’bura Sithole.