The Sharks are facing a crucial period in their United Rugby Championship campaign, with two massive home clashes set to determine their play-off hopes. After a tough afternoon at Loftus, JP Pietersen’s side returns to Durban, looking to bounce back from a series of disappointing results.
With 12 rounds of the United Rugby Championship completed, the South African Shield has been turned on its head. The Stormers, who were once setting the pace at the summit of the table, have tumbled to fifth with 36 points from 11 games, six behind current log leaders Glasgow Warriors.
Sharks Rugby Play-off Hopes
The Sharks currently sit 11th – the lowest of the SA franchises – with 24 points from 12 matches. While the coastal franchises have faltered, Gauteng’s standard-bearers have gathered momentum. The Bulls have quietly pieced together an impressive winning run built on set-piece dominance and territorial control.
Across the Jukskei, Ivan van Rooyen’s Lions have rediscovered their belief to claim the SA Shield for the first time. Renewed defensive grit and improved discipline have underpinned successive victories, propelling them back into playoff contention after an indifferent start.
Upcoming Fixtures
The resurgent Bulls will be confident of adding to the Stormers’ derby woes when they host the Capetonians at Loftus on March 14. That will be followed by a tricky home clash against Cardiff and tour matches against Munster and the Dragons. The Lions will also fancy their chances in back-to-back fixtures against Edinburgh and the Dragons at Ellis Park before a daunting away trip to Glasgow to face the Warriors.
Here are the upcoming fixtures for the South African teams:
- Sharks vs Cardiff
- Bulls vs Stormers
- Lions vs Edinburgh
- Stormers vs Munster
For more information on the United Rugby Championship, visit the official website or follow SA Rugby for the latest news and updates.
