Crocked Sharks rest Boks for Euro trip

Sharks head coach JP Pietersen has announced a 28-man squad for their upcoming EPCR Challenge Cup and United Rugby Championship matches in Europe. Multiple Springboks will miss the tour due to rest or injuries, including Eben Etzebeth, Makazole Mapimpi, Ox Nché, and captain André Esterhuizen. The Durban franchise begins their European schedule on Saturday against Lyon at the Stade de Gerland before traveling to face Cardiff and Munster.

Despite the notable absences, Springboks Jaden and Jordan Hendrikse, Jason Jenkins, Vincent Koch, Vincent Tshituka, and Jaco Williams have been included. Tshituka, Williams, and Jordan Hendrikse could make their season debuts during the tour. Meanwhile, casualties from the recent defeat to the Stormers include Etzebeth, Phepsi Buthelezi, and Vusi Moyo, who all remain sidelined alongside several injured teammates.