Hendrikse returns at a pivotal time for Sharks

The Hollywoodbets Sharks open their 2026/27 EPCR Challenge Cup campaign against Lyon in France this weekend.

Nick Hatton captains the side from No 8 and after featuring in last week’s Vodacom United Rugby Championship encounter off the bench, Stephan Lewies makes a welcome return to the starting team, after spending seven years abroad playing at Harlequins, bringing outstanding leadership following four years as their club captain.

There is also a welcome return to action for flyhalf Jordan Hendrikse who has recovered from injury at the perfect time, with Jaco Williams also back in the starting XV.

A strong bench will no doubt be called upon to bring energy and determination and the likes of Emile van Heerden, ⁠Tino Mavesere, ⁠Bradley Davids and ⁠Jurenzo Julius can all be relied on for their experience and rugby ability.

For Sharks forward coach Warren Whiteley, this is an exciting opportunity in a tournament they hold in high regard.

“We’re excited to be back in Europe, in the EPCR, a competition we place a lot of importance in, having been past winners,” he admits from the team’s new base in Lyon.

“We’re expecting a great game against a physical team, they have a powerful pack and place a lot of importance on the set-piece and have some dangerous backs, they like to throw the ball around too.

“We’re playing on an artificial pitch so there will be times when it’s nice and fast paced, which we’re excited about.

“We’re really keen to see how some of the boys take their opportunities, having put their hands up.”

Hollywoodbets Sharks starting XV: 15 ⁠Zekhethelo Siyaya, 14 ⁠Jaco Williams, 13 ⁠Suleiman Hartzenberg, 12 ⁠Murray Koster, 11 ⁠Lili Bester; 10 ⁠Jordan Hendrikse, 9 ⁠Ivan van Zyl; 8 ⁠Nick Hatton (capt), 7 ⁠Manu Tshituka, 6 ⁠Matt Romao; 5 ⁠Deon Slabbert, 4 ⁠Stephan Lewies; 3 ⁠Hanro Jacobs, 2 ⁠Ethan Bester, 1 Phatu Ganyane. Replacements: 16 Esethu Mnebelele, 17 ⁠Cameron Dawson, 18 ⁠Nemo Roelofse, 19 ⁠Emile van Heerden, 20 ⁠Tinotenda Mavesere, 21 ⁠Bradley Davids, 22 ⁠Gianni Lombard, 23 ⁠Jurenzo Julius.

LOU Rugby v Hollywoodbets Sharks - Saturday @ Matmut Stadium, Lyon (2pm)

Referee: Federico Vedovelli

TV: SuperSport