Sharks target breakthrough against Leinster in high-stakes URC clash at Aviva Stadium

The Sharks head to Dublin this weekend looking to build on the resilience they showed in their 17-17 draw with the Dragons on Friday, but they face a stiff test against defending United Rugby Championship (URC) champions Leinster at the Aviva Stadium.

The encounter promises to be a high-intensity clash, with both teams expected to have key internationals available.

Leinster will be under extra pressure to perform at home, seeking a first win of the season after leaving South Africa with only one log point. They were completely outplayed by the Stormers in their opening match in Cape Town but showed signs of improvement in Saturday’s loss to the Bulls at Loftus, picking up a bonus point for scoring four tries.

The Sharks also showed vast improvement against the Dragons and really should have beaten the Welsh side in torrid conditions in Newport.

The Sharks’ forward pack, led by Simphiwe Matanzima, Fez Mbatha, and Ruan Dreyer, dominated the scrums and laid a platform for dynamic backline play. They were also strong on the drive and in loose exchanges alongside skipper Vincent Tshituka and Phepsi Buthelezi. Lock Marvin Orie and second-row partner Deon Slabbert impressed with go-forward ball and defensive solidity.

The Sharks will hope this momentum carries into Dublin, where the physicality of the pack will be tested against Leinster’s experienced forwards. Coach John Plumtree could be tempted to throw some returning Springboks into the fray to counter the return of Leinster’s British & Irish Lions stars, as they search for only their second win in the past five URC matches against the Irish giants.

Reigning champions Leinster are renowned for their depth, and the inclusion of returning players is likely to sharpen their attacking structure and defensive organisation, making them formidable opponents on home soil.

Sharks forwards Siya Kolisi, Ox Nche, Eben Etzebeth, Bongi Mbonambi, Vincent Koch, and backs Grant Williams, Ethan Hooker, Andre Esterhuizen, and Makazole Mapimpi were all part of the Argentina leg of the Springboks’ victorious Rugby Championship campaign. Fullback Aphelele Fassi remains on the mend, as do fellow Bok back Jordan Hendrikse and veteran prop Trevor Nyakane.

While some stars will still need time to recover, those who were used sparingly during the Rugby Championship may feature for Plumtree, who could also be boosted by the return to fitness of other long-term injury absentees.

Flyhalf Jean Smith had a solid outing in difficult conditions in Wales, and his tactical kicking could again be crucial, helping the Sharks control territory and pressure Leinster in their own half if Plumtree persists with the youngster. Scrumhalf Jaden Hendrikse will also be key in building attacking rhythm, while the backline must adjust to Leinster’s pace, structured approach, and counter-attacking threat.

It will be interesting to see if Plumtree persists with wing Edwill van der Merwe at fullback and the centre combination of Jurenzo Julius and Bok veteran Lukhanyo Am.

Saturday’s match is a litmus test for the Sharks’ development this season. A strong performance in Dublin could signal a turning point in their campaign while providing valuable experience for a squad still striving for consistency under pressure.

A sprinkling of Bok magic, while keeping some of their powder dry, may just help unlock a crucial win.