Full Strength, Full Steam Ahead: Sharks Gear Up for Crucial URC Tour

(The Post News)- The Hollywoodbets Sharks are finally locking into form at just the right time as they depart for a pivotal Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) tour, kicking off with Edinburgh on Friday and Ulster a week later in Belfast.

Sitting just six points ahead of fifth-placed Munster, the Sharks need to secure wins in both fixtures to maintain their grip on a top-four finish and the all-important home advantage in the first round of playoffs.

After months of injury woes, the Sharks’ squad is getting a serious injection of star power. Eben Etzebeth is back after four months on the sidelines following a concussion picked up in December. Although his return was expected earlier in the year, lingering symptoms kept him out of action. Coach John Plumtree opted to keep him in Durban during last week’s Challenge Cup tie in Lyon, prioritising full recovery ahead of the URC’s final push.

Joining him is fullback Aphelele Fassi, who’s also been in recovery since late December. With his explosive pace and counter-attacking flair from the back, Fassi’s return is a welcome boost.

Also rejoining the touring squad are fellow Springboks Lukhanyo Am and Grant Williams, reinforcing a Sharks team that’s inching closer to full strength. With depth and experience across the park, the Sharks look ready to charge into the final rounds of the URC with renewed confidence.