Eben Etzebeth is a notable absence from the 28-man Sharks squad for their two-match European tour, which begins with a match against Bordeaux-Begles on Sunday.
On Monday, John Plumtree named a strong group for the tour of France and Wales. The Sharks face Bordeaux in the final round of pool play in the Investec Champions Cup before resuming their 2024-25 campaign at Vodacom URC against Cardiff at the Arms Park next week.
The squad is balanced with seasoned campaigners and World Cup-winning Boks (barring Etzebeth, who last played a competitive game in early December and is struggling with the after-effects of concussion).
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Also overlooked on the trip are tighthead prop Vincent Koch, flyhalf Jordan Hendrikse and winger Makazole Mapimpi after they failed their HIA tests following Saturday’s defeat to Toulouse at Kings Park.
A statement from the Sharks on Monday said the Bok trio will be monitored this week and “we are hopeful they will be able to fit into the team” ahead of next Saturday’s game against Cardiff.
However, prop Ntuthuko Mchunu, loose forward James Venter, scrum-half Grant Williams, center Lukhanyo Am and wing Eduan Keyter welcome their returns after various injuries and periods of rest.
Photo: Steve Haag Sports/Gallo Images
