Bok bruiser back for Sharks

The Sharks have been reinforced by the return of a Springbok pack monster for the Vodacom URC derby against the Lions at Kings Park on Saturday.

Having recovered from an upper arm injury, Ox Nche wears the No 1 jersey in a game the Sharks must win to lift the SA Shield for the first time.

Lock Emile van Heerden is also fit again, while Springbok captain Siya Kolisi starts at No 8 after playing off the bench last week and also leads the team.

In an injury-enforced change to the pack, Lappies Labuschagne comes in for the injured Vincent Tshituka at blindside flank.

Grant Williams and Jordan Hendrikse are the starting halfbacks, with Francois Venter replacing the injured Lukhanyo Am in midfield.

Henry Immelman (on loan to the Sharks) makes his debut at fullback, having represented Montpellier, Edinburgh and more recently, the Vodacom Bulls.

Hooker Fez Mbatha and loose forward James Venter have been named on the bench having both recovered from injury.

However, Bok lock Eben Etzebeth, who has suffered from recurring concussion symptoms, remains sidelined.

The Sharks are looking to bounce back from a 38-14 defeat to the Lions at Ellis Park last weekend.

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SHARKS – 15 Henry Immelman, 14 Yaw Penxe, 13 Jurenzo Julius, 12 Francois Venter, 11 Ethan Hooker, 10 Jordan Hendrikse, 9 Grant Williams, 8 Siya Kolisi, 7 Lappies Labuschagne, 6 Phepsi Buthelezi, 5 Emile van Heerden, 4 Jason Jenkins, 3 Vincent Koch, 2 Bongi Mbonambi, 1 Ox Nche.
Bench: 16 Fez Mbatha, 17 Ntuthuko Mchunu, 18 Hanro Jacobs, 19 Corne Rahl, 20 James Venter, 21 Nick Hatton, 22 Jaden Hendrikse, 23 Hakeem Kunene.

Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images