Sharks start strong side for Toulon

Durban Super Rugby franchise the Sharks have named their team to play Toulon at Stade Mayol in, Toulon, France on Friday.

Director of Rugby Gary Gold has named a strong line up for the European Rugby champions Cup side which should also field a number of Springboks.

Toulon have not been at their best this season but in recent weeks have started to show some form and have progressed to the play offs in European Rugby.

“This weekend’s game is a nice opportunity to test ourselves and see how far we’ve come, with what’s been quite a lengthy pre-season.” said Gold.

“We’ve selected a strong side against what should be a good Toulon team.”

“It’s a great opportunity for youngsters such as Jean-Luc and Daniel du Preez to get their first start in the Super Rugby squad. ”

“The guys are really excited and I know that we will be a bit rusty in comparison to a Toulon team that are mid-season and have been playing together for a few months, but’s that the type of challenge we wanted.”

South African Super Rugby broadcasters Supersport has confirmed that the match will not be televised.

Sharks

15. Joe Pietersen , 14. Lwazi Mvovo , 13. Paul Jordaan , 12. Andre Esterhuizen , 11. Odwa Ndungane , 10. Pat Lambie (c) , 9. Cobus Reinach , 8. Daniel du Preez , 7. Jean-Luc du Preez , 6. Francois Kleinhans , 5. Ruan Botha , 4. Etienne Oosthuizen , 3. Coenie Oosthuizen , 2. Kyle Cooper , 1. Tendai Mtawarira

Replacements , 16. Franco Marais , 17. Juan Schoeman , 18. Lourens Adriaanse , 19. Lubabalo Mtyanda , 20. Dave McDuling , 21. Hyron Andrews , 22. Stefan Ungerer , 23. Michael Claassens , 24. Garth April , 25. Heimar Williams , 26. Johan Deysel , 27. Wandile Mjekevu , 28. S’bura Sithole