Bongi Mbonambi Sharks

Bongi Mbonambi. Photo: Twitter @Springboks

BREAKING: Mbonambi to make Sharks debut

Springboks hooker and new Sharks recruit Bongi Mbonambi has been named to start in Friday’s clash against the Bulls in Durban.

Bongi Mbonambi Sharks

Bongi Mbonambi. Photo: Twitter @Springboks

There might have been an element of youthfulness about the Sharks in the early rounds of the United Rugby Championship, but coach Sean Everitt has wasted no time in bolstering the side with the available Springbok contingent.

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Back in the side are Springbok captain Siya Kolisi and the Sharks inspirational leader Lukhanyo Am, along with Test wingers Makazole Mapimpi and Sbu Nkosi, while hooker Bongi Mbonambi makes his debut in the black and white jersey, having been signed from the Stormers.

Sharks welcome Bok boost

With the first four rounds of URC action now over and the autumn Test window a thing of the past, the South African sides are set to play two derby games this weekend after the originally-scheduled games against overseas teams had to be postponed.

“It’s great to have the Boks back with us,” Everitt admitted. “They’ve come back into the squad full of energy and enthusiasm and have acted like true professionals, returning to the Sharks showing great discipline and preparation from the Springboks, something they’ve passed on to the younger players.”

“While we’re up against a tough side in the Vodacom Bulls, this is a Sharks side that grew over the first four rounds of the URC and we’re looking forward to taking the Bulls on in front of our fans, even if it’s a limited number,” Everitt added.

“It’s going to be great to have spectators cheering the Sharks on and I’m sure the players will deliver a performance fitting the gratitude they have for their support.”

The match on Friday kicks off at 19:00.

harks

1. Ntuthuko Mchunu
2. Bongi Mbonambi*
3. Thomas du Toit 
4. Ruben van Heerden
5. Hyron Andrews
6. Siya Kolisi
7. Jeandre Labuschagne
8. Phepsi Buthelezi
9. Ruan Pienaar
10. Boeta Chamberlain
11. Makazole Mapimpi
12. Lukhanyo Am (c)
13. Jeremy Ward
14. Sbu Nkosi
15. Anthony Volmink

Replacements
16. Kerron van Vuuren
17. Khwezi Mona
18. Lourens Adriaanse
19. Reniel Hugo
20. Henco Venter
21. Sanele Nohamba
22. Tito Bonilla
23. Werner Kok