The Hendrikse brothers are set to make a significant impact as the Sharks prepare to face Clermont Auvergne.
A Crucial Clash Awaits: This Saturday afternoon, the Sharks will wrap up their pool stage matches in the prestigious Champions Cup when they take on the French Top 14 team, Clermont Auvergne, at Hollywoodbets Kings Park.
Clermont enters this match seeking redemption, aiming for their first victory in this season's competition. They have faced tough losses at home against Sale Sharks and Glasgow Warriors, in addition to an initial defeat against Saracens in London. Clearly, they are motivated to turn their fortunes around.
On the other hand, the Sharks have a golden opportunity ahead of them. Securing a second win in this pool could pave their way to knockout qualification, allowing them to advance to the Round of 16.
Head coach JP Pietersen has opted for a mix of consistency and fresh energy in his team selection. While he retains some players from last week’s journey to Manchester, he has also reintroduced several key figures to strengthen the squad.
Among the notable inclusions are Matt Romao and PK Sobahle, joined by World Cup champions Ox Nche and Bongi Mbonambi in the forward pack, with Aphelele Fassi positioned at fullback. The dynamic halfback duo of Jaden and Jordan Hendrikse will steer the game, while Jurenzo Julius keeps his spot at No.12, partnering with Le Roux Malan in the midfield.
Nick Hatton continues to lead by example and has been entrusted with the captaincy for this match against Clermont, a club with a rich history. Clermont boasts a legacy as a formidable opponent, having been runners-up in the Champions Cup three times and claiming the title of French Champion twice (in 2010 and 2017). They also have three Challenge Cup victories, the latest of which was in 2019, while the Sharks themselves clinched that honor in 2024.
Sharks Lineup:
15 Aphelele Fassi, 14 Yaw Penxe, 13 Le Roux Malan, 12 Jurenzo Julius, 11 PK Sobahle, 10 Jordan Hendrikse, 9 Jaden Hendrikse, 8 Nick Hatton (captain), 7 Manu Tshituka, 6 Matt Romao, 5 Jason Jenkins, 4 Corne Rahl, 3 Hanro Jacobs, 2 Bongi Mbonambi, 1 Ox Nche
Replacements: 16 Eduan Swart, 17 Phatu Ganyane, 18 Vincent Koch, 19 Emile van Heerden, 20 Phepsi Buthelezi, 21 Ross Braude, 22 Siya Masuku, 23 Hakeem Kunene
Match Details:
Date: Saturday, January 17
Venue: Hollywoodbets Kings Park, Durban
Kick-off: 15:00 (14:00 CET; 13:00 GMT)
Referee: Christophe Ridley (England)
Assistant Referees: Anthony Woodthorpe (England), Richard Gordon (England)
TMO: Andrew Jackson (England)
As fans gear up for this exciting encounter, who do you think will come out on top? Will the Sharks secure their place in the next round, or can Clermont pull off an upset? Share your thoughts below!
