Bok-heavy pack singled out as unexpected URC pacesetters emerge

The Hollywoodbets Sharks have emerged as the early pacesetters in the BKT United Rugby Championship, standing as the only team with maximum points after the opening two rounds. Powered by a dominant forward pack, the Durban franchise secured a second successive bonus-point victory by defeating defending champions Leinster Rugby 26-20 at Kings Park on Saturday, sealed by a late try from Player of the Match Edwill van der Merwe.

Cardiff Rugby sit in second place after defeating Zebre Parma 47-27, while the Lions take third following a 35-19 win over the Ospreys. Elsewhere, Edinburgh edged the DHL Stormers 17-13, Glasgow Warriors drew 33-33 with Ulster, Dragons RFC beat the Scarlets 38-26, Connacht overcame Benetton 22-19, and Munster claimed a 26-22 win against the Vodacom Bulls.