Both teams come into this match with plenty to prove. The Bulls slipped to fourth in the South African Conference after a shock defeat to the previously poorly-fairing Chiefs who put on a half-century of points against them.

Sharks coach Robert du Preez admits that this is a huge game.

“It’s going to be a big, physical battle and we have to be up for it,” he explains. “This is going to be Test match rugby.”

Commenting on where the team needs to be accurate, he says: “Our exits have to be good, our kicking game, in general, has to be spot on. Our discipline has to be good and our physicality too. Those three things are vital.

With Beast Mtawarira equalling Adriaan Strauss’s South African Super Rugby record of 156 appearances, Du Preez has paid tribute to a true warrior and stalwart for the Sharks.

“When you speak about Beast, you need a lot of time because there is so much to say. It’s no cliché, he’s a true legend of the game. He’s been immense for us this year and his leadership, both on and off the field, has been outstanding.

“When you talk about tight rugby matches, it’s all about winning the critical moments. We know it’s an important game within the same conference.”

Sharks assistant coach Nick Easter said the team learned a few lessons from their first meeting a few weeks ago.

“There are a few things we need to do differently this time around against the Bulls. We got schooled in that first game, but lots of lessons were learned that we’ll hopefully apply in the advantage of playing on our home field. It’s going to be a physical battle and we have to be mentally up for it.”

Sharks captain Louis Schreuder said the team is still feeling the frustration and disappointment of that earlier game.

“Although the first round game is in the past, we all remember the feeling in the change room afterwards so we want to make amends. We as the forwards feel that we have a statement to make and as a team, a bone to pick with the Bulls after the frustration and disappointment of that earlier game.

"Every team in this competition can put an amazing performance together on the day and if you don’t pitch up, you’re going to concede a lot of points.”

Sbu Nkosi is out of the team this week, having taken a knock to his quad in last week’s game, but the coach confirmed that it was also a bit of rotation with Lwazi Mvovo coming in. Luke Stringer in for Phepsi Buthelezi is also rotational.

The Bulls have made a few changes to the team that was shocked by the Chiefs last week, but remain a settled side nonetheless and will provide worthy opposition.

The Bulls are undefeated in their last eight Super Rugby games against the Sharks with one draw and seven victories since last losing a match between the sides in 2014.

However, the Sharks have enjoyed home ground advantage at Kings Park, having won seven of our last eight Super Rugby games on home soil.

Overall in the competition, the teams have met 31 times, the Sharks have won nine times, there have been three draws and the Bulls have 19 wins under the belt. 

- ANA