The Hollywoodbets Sharks’ lineup for their Vodacom United Rugby Championship encounter with Cardiff at Hollywoodbets Kings Park this Saturday reflects the team’s dual priorities.

With the EPCR Challenge Cup Final against Gloucester looming next weekend in London, the Sharks have opted for a significantly altered squad for this match against the Welsh side. The remaining players will travel north to prepare for the crucial final.

This season’s focus has been on squad development rather than separate teams for different competitions. The players selected have consistently been part of the training squad and have contributed positively throughout the past two campaigns. This is their opportunity to showcase their talents and further solidify the team’s depth for the future.

Both Cardiff and the Sharks possess 25 log points, with the Durban outfit eager to deliver a strong performance in their penultimate home game of the tournament.

“We’ve given these guys a chance to prove themselves and build momentum for the team traveling to Gloucester,” explains Sharks’ defense coach, Joey Mongalo. “Hopefully, their performance will be a true reflection of our collective progress.”

Reniel Hugo leads the team against an opponent that Mongalo warns should not be underestimated.

“Cardiff boasts players with impressive ‘defenders beaten’ statistics, stemming from their strong set-piece plays,” he says. “A dominant set-piece pushes the defense back, allowing them to gain momentum and create line breaks. Despite recent losses, their margins have narrowed, even against top teams. They’re a cohesive unit that will look to impose their playing style.”

Hollywoodbets Sharks:

1. Dian Bleuler
2. Dylan Richardson
3. Khwezi Mona
4. Corne Rahl
5. Reniel Hugo (c)
6. Tino Mavesere
7. Simon Miller*
8. Sikhumbuzo Notshe**
9. Tiaan Fourie
10. Lionel Cronje
11. Aphiwe Dyantyi
12. Eduan Keyter
13. Diego Appollis
14. Yaw Penxe
15. Boeta Chamberlain

Replacements:

16. Dan Jooste
17. Braam Reyneke*
18. IG Prinsloo*
19. Thomas Dyer*
20. Nick Hatton
21. Bradley Davids
22. Curwin Bosch
23. Anthony Volmink