Eben Etzebeth starts against Connacht as Sharks gives Hakeem Kunene fullback nod

Youngster Hakeem Kunene will step into the problematic fullback slot for the Sharks, while veteran Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth returns straight to the starting line-up for Friday night’s EPCR Challenge Cup Round of 16 clash against Connacht.

Etzebeth’s inclusion follows the completion of his recent suspension, providing a massive boost to the Durban side as they shift focus to the knockout tie in Galway.

Head coach JP Pietersen has made 13 changes to the starting XV that secured a United Rugby Championship victory over Cardiff last weekend, seeking to balance a mounting injury toll with the physical demands of an overseas trip.

“Injuries test the character of the squad, but they also give the next guy an opportunity,” Pietersen said. “It’s a test of how you bounce back as a group.”

Despite missing several frontline players, the Sharks welcome a formidable dose of experience in the pack.

Etzebeth is joined by fellow double World Cup winners Ox Nche and Vincent Koch in the tight five, while the backline remains dangerous with Makazole Mapimpi and Edwill van der Merwe providing firepower on the wings.

Captain Nick Hatton anchors the side at No 8 and is one of only two players retained from the win over Cardiff, alongside recent centurion Mapimpi. Pietersen has also opted for a high-impact bench, featuring the likes of Vincent Tshituka and the versatile Ethan Hooker.

Kick-off at the Dexcom Stadium is scheduled for 9pm (SA time) on Friday.

Sharks

1 Ox Nche, 2 Eduan Swart, 3 Vincent Koch, 4 Eben Etzebeth, 5 Deon Slabbert, 6 Tino Mavesere, 7 Jannes Potgieter, 8 Nick Hatton (captain), 9 Ross Braude, 10 Jean Smith, 11 Makazole Mapimpi, 12 Marnus Potgieter, 13 Le Roux Malan, 14 Edwill van der Merwe, 15 Hakeem Kunene.

Replacements: 16 Ethan Bester, 17 Lee-Marvin Mazibuko, 18 Mawande Mdanda, 19 Corne Rahl, 20 Vincent Tshituka, 21 Ceano Everson, 22 Siya Masuku, 23 Ethan Hooker.