Will he feature for Sharks this URC weekend?

Question marks have surrounded Siya Kolisi of late – but it’s all system go this weekend.

Following weeks on the sideline, the Springbok captain returned to URC action on March 8 as the Sharks outmuscled the Lions 25-22 to keep their top-four hopes alive. The Kolisi-installed outfit will look to continue their fine form when they face Italy’s Zebre tomorrow.

Kick-off: 14:45

John Plumtree’s side head to the Shark Tank having won three of their last four games. They lie fourth on the log, six points above next-best Munster, who take on reigning champions Glasgow Warriors later today.

Starting fifteen

Sharks – 15 Henry Immelman, 14 Yaw Penxe, 13 Jurenzo Julius, 12 Ethan Hooker, 11 Makazole Mapimpi, 10 Jordan Hendrikse, 9 Jaden Hendrikse, 8 Siya Kolisi (c), 7 Vincent Tshituka, 6 Phepsi Buthelezi, 5 Emile van Heerden, 4 Jason Jenkins, 3 Vincent Koch, 2 Bongi Mbonambi, 1 Ox Nche.

Substitutes: 16 Fez Mbatha, 17 Ntuthuko Mchunu, 18 Hanro Jacobs, 19 Corne Rahl, 20 James Venter, 21 Bradley Davids, 22 Francois Venter, 23 Andre Esterhuizen.

Kolisi to remain Springbok captain

Rassie Erasmus confirmed that Kolisi will retain the Springbok captain this year, saying, “Our feeling is if a guy is 34, 35, 36, injury-free and the fittest he can be, as long as he is number one in his position, he will stay captain,” he explained.

“Obviously, there are some other options. Eben Etzebeth, Bongi Mbonambi and Pieter-Steph du Toit have been captains. If Siya is fit, healthy and playing well, then I don’t think there will be a change this year.”

Do you think Kolisi is better in the 8 position?

Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.

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