Sharks name strong 27-man squad for their Australasian tour
Head Coach, Robert du Preez has opted to take 16 forwards and 11 backs on tour.
The tour opener will be in Parramatta against the Waratahs, before the team heads over to New Zealand to take on the Crusaders and finally the Chiefs before returning home.
The Cell C Sharks have always enjoyed touring and after a disappointing stretch of results at home, the team will look to refocus and get their campaign back on track.
Akker van der Merwe is set to make his return to action.
Van der Merwe has served his three-week suspension following a punch-up with Schalk Brits, and will be available for the Sharks’ games against the Waratahs, Crusaders and Chiefs.
Makazole Mapimpi and Lukhanyo Am were rested for last weekend’s disappointing outing against the Reds, but the backline duo also make their return.
However, prop Juan Schoeman was not considered for selection due to a MCL injury.
Sharks squad
Forwards: Akker van der Merwe, Coenie Oosthuizen, Daniel du Preez, Hyron Andrews, Jacques Vermeulen, Jean-Luc du Preez, John-Hubert Meyer, Kerron van Vuuren, Luke Stringer, Mzamo Majola, Philip van der Walt, Ruan Botha, Ruben van Heerden, Tendai Mtawarira, Thomas du Toit, Tyler Paul.
Backs: Andre Esterhuizen, Aphelele Fassi, Cameron Wright, Curwin Bosch, Kobus van Wyk Louis Schreuder (captain), Lukhanyo Am, Makazole Mapimpi, Marius Louw, Robert du Preez, Sibusiso Nkosi.