After a tough opening loss in the Currie Cup, the Hollywoodbets Sharks XV are coming into this weekend’s clash with the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld with something to prove—and they’ve shaken things up to do just that.
The team has unveiled a refreshed lineup blending promising young talent with seasoned experience, all aimed at igniting a stronger performance.
Kick-off is set for 17:10 on Saturday in Pretoria.
Young Guns Step Up After U20 World Glory
One of the biggest stories ahead of this match is the inclusion of four Junior Springboks who recently helped steer South Africa to victory in the World Rugby U20 Championship.
Their addition signals a clear intent to inject energy and raw firepower into the squad.
The fresh faces include Jaco Williams, Simphiwe Ngobese, Matt Romao, and Vusi Moyo—all of whom impressed on the international stage.
Williams will start on the left wing, replacing Khuthi Rasivhaga, who moves to the bench.
Known for his blistering speed and try-scoring instinct, Williams adds flair to the backline.
Meanwhile, Ngobese joins the matchday squad as a prop option, while Romao—a physical force in the back row—slots in as a replacement forward.
Vusi Moyo Brings Firepower Off the Bench
Perhaps the most exciting addition is Vusi Moyo, the Junior Boks’ top scorer during the U20 tournament.
Moyo racked up 63 points, thanks to his clinical goal-kicking and game management skills.
Though he’ll start on the bench, his presence is expected to be a game-changer in the second half.
Moyo also played a vital role in South Africa’s 23-15 win over the Junior All Blacks in the final, and many fans will be eager to see how his form translates to senior-level play.
Forward Pack Reinforced with Experience
Alongside the youthful injection, the Sharks are bolstering their pack with a couple of big inclusions.
Corne Rahl will start at lock, taking over from Gideon Koegelenberg, while Tino Mavesere replaces Mawande Mdanda at flanker.
These changes are expected to add some much-needed steel and structure.
Adding even more weight to the forward pack is Lee-Marvin Mazibuko, the 28-year-old tighthead prop who returns from a stint with French side Racing 92.
His experience with Western Province and the Stormers could prove invaluable in the scrums.
Sharks Aim to Recover from Harsh Opening Loss
The Sharks are still licking their wounds after a rough 46-5 defeat to the Lions last weekend in their opening Currie Cup fixture.
It’s a result that’s prompted clear action from coach JP Pietersen, who is determined to find a winning formula.
Meanwhile, the Bulls head into the game with momentum, having beaten Western Province 48-23 in their first outing.
Who’s Taking the Field for the Sharks?
Here’s the matchday squad the Sharks are counting on to turn things around:
Starting XV:
15. Hakeem Kunene
14. Phiko Sobahle
13. Litelihle Bester
12. Janco Purchase
11. Jaco Williams
10. Jean Smith
9. Bradley Davids (vice-captain)
8. Nick Hatton (captain)
7. Jannes Potgieter
6. Tino Mavesere
5. Deon Slabbert
4. Corne Rahl
3. Lee-Marvin Mazibuko
2. Bryce Calvert
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Phatu Ganyane
Replacements:
16. Jacques Marais
17. Simphiwe Ngobese
18. Dian Heunis
19. Gideon Koegelenberg
20. Matt Romao
21. Ceano Everson
22. Vusi Moyo
23. Albie Bester
All Eyes on Loftus for a Saturday Evening Battle
The match will be played at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria, with Sean Muller taking charge as the referee.
Assistant referees Dylen November and Lulutho Matomela will join him, along with TMO Marius van der Westhuizen.
Got a Score Prediction?
Who’s your pick to win this big Currie Cup clash?
Think the Bulls will continue their strong form or will the Sharks’ bold changes make the difference?
