Sharks To Miss Am For Historic Challenge Cup Final

Hollywoodbets Sharks Director of Rugby Neil Powell has confirmed the injury list and offered a glimpse into the team’s preparations for the upcoming EPCR Challenge Cup final against Gloucester.
This Friday’s match presents a unique opportunity for the Sharks to etch their names in history as the first South African team to win a European trophy.
Powell addressed the team’s current state, highlighting the absence of key players: “The only two players unavailable are Jaden Hendrikse and Lukhanyo Am, who suffered an injury, I believe, during the Benetton game.”
While keeping specific strategies under wraps, Powell emphasized discipline and focus as crucial aspects of the Sharks’ game plan against Gloucester in London.
“We understand the importance of discipline and a committed effort,” Powell said. “We’ll need to stick to the game plan we’ve developed to tackle Gloucester.”
Despite a lackluster United Rugby Championship run, the Durban-based team defied expectations by reaching the Challenge Cup final, overcoming teams like Edinburgh and Clermont.
The potential to be the first South African team to conquer the European competition holds immense significance, as Powell explained: “I think it would be a great reward for all the hard work that has been put in over the last year and just a bit of a tap in the back and motivation to start the next season on a better note.”
With a revamped technical team and a new coach at the helm, the 45-year-old director is confident the team has built a strong foundation for the future.
“I think where we’ve gone from the last six months and where we are now is a good foundation for the future, I think a lot of good things in terms of the culture and environment and happy squad for this moment,” asserted Powell.
The injuries to Am and potentially Damian Willemse (whose reported finger injury could keep him sidelined until November) pose a significant concern for the Springboks ahead of their upcoming season.