The Sharks will face Russia’s World Cup team in two warm-up matches as part of their preparations for the upcoming Vodacom Super Rugby season.
The Sharks have confirmed that two games will be played against Russia before the SuperHero Sunday fixture against the Stormers at FNB Stadium on 19 January.
The team will also be playing a warm-up against Varsity Cup side Pukke, which will take place directly before their first match against Russia at the Kings Park B-field on Friday. Their next fixture against Russia will take place on 17 January, before they depart for Johannesburg for their final friendly.
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These games will allow coach Sean Everitt to test his combinations ahead of the start of their Super Rugby campaign against the Vodacom Bulls on 31 January. This could be especially vital as the team has undergone an overhaul in the off-season, losing 16 players – including veteran prop Beast Mtawarira– to overseas clubs while bringing in nine new signings to replace them.
Among the players who could make their first appearances in Sharks colours are No 8 Sikhumbuzo Notshe, loosehead prop Ox Nche and wing Madosh Tambwe.
Join #OurSharks ahead of the 2020 Vodacom Super Rugby season with exciting warm up matches.
Entry to all warm up matches at Jonsson Kings Park will be free of charge ?#OurSharksForever pic.twitter.com/FipOhWlLUJ— The Sharks (@TheSharksZA) January 7, 2020
Photo: Steve Haag/Steve Haag Sports
