The Sharks have made two changes to their starting XV for tomorrow’s Currie Cup final against the Lions in Johannesburg. Emmanuel Tshituka replaces the Springbok Phepsi Buthelezi, while the former Cheetahs captain Francois Venter is suspended and replaced by Jurenzo Julius.

Meanwhile, the Springbok lock, Jason Jenkins, who recently joined the Sharks from Leinster, will debut off the bench.

The Sharks assistant coach, Warren Whiteley, said the team has shown a lot of character in their lead-up to the final, especially during their semi-final against the Bulls in Pretoria. “We’re proud of the effort and character shown in last week’s semi-final and now we’re in the final, which is really special, a great opportunity for us,” said Whiteley.

“We’ve built nicely over the last few weeks, the Lions are also a great side, that’s why they’re top of the log and they’ve proved that throughout the competition.

“It’s going to be a massive test for us, but one we’re really looking forward to. This is the final and we’re treating it with respect. We want to honour the tradition of the Currie Cup.

“We’re looking forward to the challenge, the Lions are a quality side who got the better of us a couple of times, they have a massive, dominant pack and some explosive backs and we can’t wait to get out there.”

Saturday’s Currie Cup final at Ellis Park kicks off at 16:00.

Lions – TBA

Sharks – 15 Jordan Hendrikse, 14 Eduan Keyter, 13 Jurenzo Julius, 12 André Esterhuizen, 11 Ethan Hooker, 10 Siya Masuku, 9 Bradley Davids, 8 Emmanuel Tshituka, 7 Vincent Tshituka (captain), 6 James Venter, 5 Emile van Heerden, 4 Corne Rahl, 3 Hanro Jacobs, 2 Fez Mbatha, 1 Ntuthuko Mchunu

Replacements - 16 Dylan Richardson, 17 Trevor Nyakane, 18 Mawande Mdande, 19 Jason Jenkins, 20 Gerbrandt Grobler, 21 Tinotenda Mavesere, 22 Tian Meyer, 23 Lionel Cronjé

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg