The team from Durban sees several players returning from injury in the crunch game, with the likes of Vincent Tshituka and Werner Kok declared fit. The Sharks also welcome back Dylan Richardson for the game.

While Kok will start on the wing, Tshituka and Richardson will both play off the bench.

The Sharks will be desperate to return to winning ways following their disappointing 46-19 defeat to the Stormers two weeks ago.

The Sharks coach, Neil Powell, said it’s great to have these players back.

“It's obviously great to have Vincent back and Dylan Richardson as well after a long injury lay-off.

“It's great to have to quality of those players back in the team, and Werner Kok as well after three to four weeks that he was struggling with that knee injury.

“It's great to see all of those guys slowly getting back and being ready for this Lions game.”

Saturday afternoon's clash at Ellis Park kicks off at 15:00. At 17:05 the Bulls face the Stormers at Loftus Versfeld.

Sharks - 15 Aphelele Fassi, 14 Werner Kok, 13 Francois Venter, 12 Rohan Janse van Rensburg, 11 Thaakir Abrahams, 10 Curwin Bosch, 9 Grant Williams, 8 Phepsi Buthelezi (captain), 7 Henco Venter, 6 James Venter, 5 Gerbrandt Grobler, 4 Reniel Hugo, 3 Carlu Sadie, 2 Dan Jooste, 1 Ntuthuko Mchunu

Replacements - 16 Fez Mbatha, 17 Dian Bleuler, 18 Hanro Jacobs, 19 Vincent Tshituka, 20 Dylan Richardson, 21 Sikhumbuzo Notshe, 22 Cameron Wright, 23 Ben Tapuai

Morgan Piek OFM Sport