As it stands on the URC log, the Sharks find themselves in fourth place and are virtually assured of a playoff berth, but it’s far more precarious for the Stormers and Lions.
The Cape side are down in 10th place, but only a single point adrift of three teams ahead of them, namely Cardiff, Edinburgh and Benetton.
Meanwhile, the Lions are down in 14th spot, six points behind the eighth-placed Edinburgh and looking far off a playoff place.
Looking ahead to this weekend’s fixtures, the Sharks have travelled away to face Edinburgh on Friday night (kick off at 20:35 SA time).
On Saturday, the Lions host Benetton (13:45 kick off), while later in the day the Stormers face Connacht in Cape Town (16:00 kick off).
All to play for as the Sharks, Lions and Stormers return to URC action
The Bulls are currently in third place on the log, but they have a bye this weekend, and will be anxiously awaiting the outcome of other results, particularly as the Sharks look to make up ground on their South African rivals.
As a reminder, here is what the Sharks’ touring squad looks like:
FULL SQUAD:
Forwards: Bongi Mbonambi, Eben Etzebeth, Emile van Heerden, Ethan Bester, Fez Mbatha, Hanro Jacobs, James Venter, Jason Jenkins, Emmanuel Tshituka, Ntuthuko Mchunu, Ox Nche, Phepsi Buthelezi, Ruan Dreyer, Siya Kolisi, Vincent Koch, Vincent Tshituka. Backs: Andre Esterhuizen, Aphelele Fassi, Bradley Davids, Ethan Hooker, Grant Williams, Jaden Hendrikse, Jordan Hendrikse, Jurenzo Julius, Lukhanyo Am, Makazole Mapimpi, Siya Masuku, Yaw Penxe.
DO YOU AGREE WITH THIS RANKING?
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