Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth will miss the Sharks’ crunch Vodacom URC derby against the Vodacom Bulls on Saturday due to fitness concerns, but head coach John Plumtree remains confident his side can deliver a strong performance at Kings Park.
The Sharks, already battling a string of injuries, received a further setback with Etzebeth’s continued unavailability. The towering lock has not passed concussion protocols and is also dealing with shoulder and back issues.
‘Disruptive Week’ for Sharks
Plumtree acknowledged the challenges leading up to the derby, describing the week as “disruptive.”
“It’s been a bit of a disruptive week,” Plumtree said during a press conference. “We’ve got sickness in the camp, injuries, and Eben hasn’t passed his sway test, so he’s unavailable.
We’re dealing with an athlete whose body’s not right, and we need to get him right. Hopefully, we’ll have everyone back by the Toulouse game, but the next two matches will be a little patchy because of Springbok resting and injuries.
Kolisi Leads From the Front
Despite the setbacks, the Sharks welcome back Siya Kolisi, who returns to captain the team. He will spearhead a loose trio alongside Emmanuel Tshituka and Phepsi Buthelezi.
The starting lineup also boasts the likes of Vincent Koch and Ox Nche in the front row, and a backline featuring Boks Andre Esterhuizen, Aphelele Fassi, and Makazole Mapimpi.
“There’s always an expected response,” Plumtree said, referring to their 56-17 Champions Cup loss to Leicester last week. “We don’t like losing, and definitely not by that margin.
“It’s good to be back home in front of our supporters and playing against a side like the Bulls, who always bring the best out of us.”
High-Stakes Derby
The Sharks are aiming to build momentum ahead of a challenging schedule that includes matches against the DHL Stormers and Toulouse in early 2025.
“This is the competition,” Plumtree added. “You’ve got to be adaptable, flexible, and deliver a good performance.”
The Bulls, who are coming off a loss to Northampton Saints in the Champions Cup, will be eager to spoil the Sharks’ plans in what promises to be an electrifying South African derby.