Du Plessis fighting fit
Sharks assistant coach Grant Bashford confirmed that Springbok hooker Bismarck du Plessis had not broken any ribs in the win over the Stormers and will be fit to take on the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday.
Sharks assistant coach Grant Bashford confirmed that Springbok hooker Bismarck du Plessis had not broken any ribs in the win over the Stormers and will be fit to take on the defending champion Bulls at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday.
The matter of a few of bumps and bruises is something the tough hooker takes in his stride as last year's finalists prepare for a rematch of the thrilling 2007 Super 14 Final.
“Bismarck ran well at training, he took no contact as a precautionary measure, but there are no broken ribs,” Bashford told the Sharks' website.
“He hasn't been pulled out, we're optimistic he will play against the Bulls on Saturday.”
Bashford also confirmed that scrum-half Ruan Pienaar was suffering from a collarbone injury and will be out of action for 10-12 days, but should be back for the Blues game.
The Sharks are expected to name a near unaltered squad as for the Stormers match for the encounter with the Bulls in Pretoria weekend, with one or two options pending on the bench.
Charl McLeod may come in as a backup scrum-half to Rory Kockott who will start in the place of Pienaar.
Frédéric Michalak, who has had scrum-half experience at Test level for France, could also act as a further option in the number nine jersey.
The Sharks are expecting a backlash from the Bulls who suffered a huge defeat against the Crusaders last weeked.
“We have huge respect for the Bulls,” said Bashford.
“They caught the Crusaders when they were flying and lost their own way a bit.
“Any side can get a hiding from anyone in this tournament if you don't turn up. But even so, if they hadn't lost last week, it's a Sharks-Bulls derby and they are always up for us.
“There are a lot of good players in their team and they aren't the Super 14 champs for nothing.
“I know they lost personnel, but so have a lot of teams.
“They beat the Stormers away, but would be very disappointed with their performance against the Crusaders and that will bring out a sting in their tails.”
Bashford admitted that it is vitally important for a team to win their home games, and slipping up at home puts pressure later when on the road.
However, the Sharks have a good record at Loftus.
“We don't see traveling or being away as that much of a problem – it hasn't been in the past as we've proved,” he said.
“The guys are looking forward to it. They're also looking forward to a respite from the heat we've been dealing with in Durban.
“The ball stays dry in Pretoria, and we are looking forward to getting out of the humidity and playing a bit.”