Venter in for Buthelezi as Sharks coach Plumtree opts for continuity in Ulster URC clash

The Sharks team that under-performed in beating Edinburgh last week has largely been given a reprieve for Saturday’s visit to Ulster, with coach John Plumtree making just two changes to the run-on 15.

The Sharks are fourth on the United Rugby Championship points table, and a defeat of the tough Irish side in Belfast (8.35pm kick-off) will set them up for a push for third or second spot as they have relatively soft games awaiting them in Durban.

They will play Welsh sides in the Ospreys and Scarlets.

There is a blow to the match-23, though, in that livewire scrumhalf Grant Williams drops out because of injury. He is replaced on the bench by Bradley Davids.

Many Sharks supporters had hoped that Williams would start this week, with Siya Masuku getting a run at flyhalf, but the backline is as it started against Edinburgh.

Brothers Jaden and Jordan Hendrikse continue as the halfback pairing.

In the forwards, Plumtree has made a rotational change at openside flank, with Phepsi Buthelezi dropping to the bench and James Venter earning a starting spot.

There is a forced change in the second row — Emile van Heerden was injured against the Scots and is replaced by Jason Jenkins, and Manu Tshituka is promoted to the bench.

That is the minimal extent of the changes to the match-23 as Plumtree chooses continuity.

Last week, a host of players were making their return to the playing field, and there was clear rustiness.

This Sharks combination will surely be better for a second hit-out together.

Sharks Team

15 Aphelele Fassi 14 Ethan Hooker 13 Lukhanyo Am 12 Andre Esterhuizen 11 Makazole Mapimpi 10 Jordan Hendrikse 9 Jaden Hendrikse 8 Siya Kolisi 7 Vincent Tshituka 6 James Venter 5 Jason Jenkins 4 Eben Etzebeth (captain) 3 Vincent Koch 2 Bongi Mbonambi 1 Ox Nche.

Bench: 16 Fez Mbatha 17 Ntuthuko Mchunu 18 Hanro Jacobs 19 Manu Tshituka 20 Phepsi Buthelezi 21 Bradley Davids 22 Siya Masuku 23 Jurenzo Julius.