Sharks and Ospreys prepare for URC season opener

The Sharks and Ospreys are set to face each other in their United Rugby Championship (URC) season opener at Kings Park. For the Sharks, the match marks the first full season under head coach JP Pietersen. Vusi Moyo has been named to start at number 10, replacing Jordan Hendrikse, who is unavailable due to a minor injury setback. Moyo will lead the attack alongside a midfield featuring Murray Koster and Jurenzo Julius, with Nick Hatton captaining the side from number 8.

The Ospreys enter the fixture with high ambitions, with co-captain Owen Watkin stating that a top-eight finish in the league is “non-negotiable.” The Welsh side has introduced new elements to their backline, including Australian recruits Lawson Creighton and Lalakai Foketi. Watkin, sharing captaincy duties with Sam Parry, noted that the squad possesses the depth required to compete for a high standing and push forward in European competition.