By Ayanda Nyuswa
Hollywoodbets Sharks coach John Plumtree has announced his squad for the Vodacom United Rugby Championship quarterfinal clash against Munster at Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium on Saturday, making five changes to the team that beat the Scarlets in the final URC pool match. World Cup winning midfielder Lukhanyo Am makes his return to the starting team to form a midfield partnership with fellow Bok Andre Esterhuizen. Am’s inclusion is at the expense of youngster Jurenzo Julius who drops out of the matchday squad.
The other change in the backline sees Jordan Hendrikse make his return to Flyhalf, ahead of the injured Siya Masuku, to form a half back pairing with brother Jaden Hendrikse. Springbok captain Siya Kolisi makes his return at eighth man after adhering to the Springbok resting protocols, in one of 3 changes to the pack. James Venter slots in at openside flank, while Jason Jenkins partners captain Eben Etzebeth in the engine room of the scrum.
The Sharks will be searching for a first ever appearance in the semi finals of the United Rugby Championship, while Munster seek a return to the last four for the third successive season.
Hollywoodbets Sharks team
Aphelele Fassi, Ethan Hooker, Lukhanyo Am, Andre Esterhuizen, Makazole Mapimpi, Jordan Hendrikse, Jaden Hendrikse, Siya Kolisi, Vincent Tshituka, James Venter, Jason Jenkins, Eben Etzebeth (captain), Vincent Koch, Bongi
Replacements:
Fez Mbatha, Ntuthuko Mchunu, Hanro Jacobs, Emile van Heerden, Phepsi Buthelezi, Bradley Davids, Francois Venter, Yaw Penxe.
