Plumtree opts for a five-two split
Sharks coach John Plumtree has made just two changes to the starting line-up ahead of the Super Rugby semifinal match against the Stormers on Saturday.
Sevens Springbok Paul Jordaan failed a late fitness test and joined Bok utility Patrick Lambie on the sidelines.
The absence of Lambie, who has been in a race against time to recover from a recurring ankle injury, and Jordaan (troublesome hamstring injury) means Tim Whitehead moves from inside centre to No.13 and will be partnered by Meyer Bosman in the midfield.
Cobus Reinach misses out as Plumtree opted for a five-forwards-two-backs split on the bench - with Jean Deysel returning to the side to add extra firepower amongst the replacements.
The final change sees Riaan Viljoen named in Bosman's place on the bench.
Sharks: 15 Louis Ludik, 14 JP Pietersen, 13 Tim Whitehead, 12 Meyer Bosman, 11 Lwazi Mvovo, 10 Frederic Michalak, 9 Charl McLeod, 8 Ryan Kankowski, 7 Marcell Coetzee, 6 Keegan Daniel (captain), 5 Anton Bresler, 4 Willem Alberts, 3 Jannie du Plessis, 2 Bismarck du Plessis, 1 Tendai Mtawarira.
Replacements: 16 Craig Burden, 17 Wiehahn Herbst, 18 Steven Sykes, 19 Jean Deysel, 20 Jacques Botes, 21 Odwa Ndungane, 22 Riaan Viljoen.
Date: Saturday, July 28
Venue: Newlands, Cape Town
Kick-off: 17.00 (15.00)
Referee: Steve Walsh
Assistant referees: Jaco Peyper, Marius Jonker
TMO: Shaun Veldsman
