Sharks bolster squad with Springbok returns for Cardiff clash

The Hollywoodbets Sharks have named five Springbok players to return to the starting lineup and bench for their upcoming United Rugby Championship (URC) match against Cardiff at Arms Park.

Centre André Esterhuizen, who resumes captaincy, will start alongside Jurenzo Julius. The squad also sees the return of wingers Ethan Hooker and Edwill van der Merwe. Props Ox Nché and Thomas du Toit will join the matchday squad on the bench after being rested following the club’s recent Champions Cup victory against Lyon.

Sharks coach JP Pietersen has implemented nine changes to the starting XV. The team currently sits fifth on the URC log, closely followed by Cardiff in sixth place.