Following last week’s Carling Currie Cup victory over the Fidelity ADT Lions, the Hollywoodbets Sharks are in action against the Airlink Pumas in their return leg match this Saturday in Mbombela.

The bonus-point win away from home has significantly boosted team confidence, providing extra motivation for this weekend’s encounter.

Captain Nick Hatton explained that the victory restored belief in the team’s abilities, emphasizing the need for consistent 80-minute performances.

While acknowledging the positive impact of the win, Hatton stressed the importance of maintaining focus and avoiding complacency. He highlighted the team’s determination to build on their success.

The debut performances of several young players contributed to the team’s victory, according to Hatton. He praised their talent and seamless integration into the squad.

Head coach JP Pietersen has made two changes to the pack, welcoming back Springbok prop Trevor Nyakane and Tino Mavesere from Zimbabwe’s Rugby Africa Cup campaign. Eduan Keyter replaces Yaw Penxe on the wing. The only debutant in the matchday squad is Chris Horak, a former Hilton College and Sharks Craven Week flyhalf, who will provide cover from the bench.

The Hollywoodbets Sharks XV

1. Abraham Reynecke
2. Daniel Jooste
3. Trevor Nyakane
4. Batho Hlekani
5. Reniel Hugo
6. Tino Mavesere
7. Jannes Potgieter
8. Nicholas Hatton (Capt.)
9. Bradley Davids
10. Lionel Cronje
11. Jaco Williams
12. Jurenzo Julius
13. Lili Bester
14. Eduan Keyter
15. Hakeem Kunene

Replacements

1. Bryce Calvert
2. Dian Bleuler
3. Kabous Bezuidenhout
4. Hennie Sieberhagen
5. Siya Ningiza
6. Tian Meyer
7. Chris Horak*
8. Scott Nel

*denotes debut