Deon Slabbert’s return from injury has given the Sharks a timely boost as they look to put last weekend’s disappointment behind them and revive their slim Currie Cup semi-final hopes against the Lions on Friday.
Slabbert returns to the starting XV for the round six clash at Woodburn Stadium in Pietermaritzburg after recovering from the injury he sustained against New Zealand, with coach Mike Vowles immediately highlighting the inportance of the lock’s leadership to the team.
“Most notably we’ve got Deon Slabbert back from an injury last week that he sustained in the New Zealand game. So he’ll bring a little bit of leadership into the group,” Vowles said.
That experience could prove particularly valuable for a Sharks side seeking a response after their heavy 55–21 defeat against the Griquas in Kimberley last weekend.
Vowles admitted the Sharks had used the past week for some introspection following the setback and believes the return of players such as Slabbert can help provide the composure required as they enter the final stretch of their campaign.
“We’ve had a good week. We’ve used it as an opportunity, as a bit of introspection,” Vowles said. “Obviously after the challenge of Kimberley, we’re looking to get our campaign back on a positive note.”
Slabbert’s return is part of a reshuffled Sharks pack, with Phiwayinkosi “Rambo” Kubheka and Simphiwe Ngobese also promoted into the starting XV after featuring from the bench last weekend. Kubheka comes in at loosehead, with Jaco du Toit moving to the replacements, while Ngobese takes over at tighthead.
There is also a significant reshuffle in the loose forwards, with Meno Barnard moving to flank, Jean-Henri Smit coming into the starting side and Tino Mavesere shifting back to No. 8 from the flank as the Sharks cope with injury.
The backline is largely unchanged, with the only alteration seeing Janco Purchase move into the inside centre position previously occupied by Albie Bester, who drops to the bench.
Ross Braude continues as captain at scrumhalf, with Tim Swiel at flyhalf.
The Sharks know they cannot afford another slip-up as they attempt to force their way into semi-final contention, with Vowles targeting a strong finish to the campaign from his side’s final two home matches.
“We’re targeting these last two games to finish strong, and then hopefully give us a shot to get into the semi,” he said.
The fixture will also have a community element, with ticket sale proceeds supporting the recovery efforts of injured Maritzburg Rugby Club player Jeremy Swan.
Sharks team for Lions
Sharks: 15 Luan Giliomee, 14 Christie Grobbelaar, 13 Lyle Matthews, 12 Janco Purchase, 11 Khuthi Rasivhaga, 10 Tim Swiel, 9 Ross Braude (captain), 8 Tino Mavesere, 7 Meno Barnard, 6 Jean-Henri Smit, 5 Deon Slabbert, 4 Johan Momsen, 3 Simphiwe Ngobese, 2 Liam van Wyk, 1 Phiwayinkosi Kubheka.
Replacements: 16 Jacques Marais, 17 Jaco du Toit, 18 Dian Heunis, 19 Danio Botha, 20 Wasi Vyambwera, 21 Juan Loots, 22 Siya Masuku, 23 Albie Bester.
