Joe Pietersen
New Cell C Sharks recruit Joe Pietersen will line up at fullback for the Cell C Sharks as they open their ABSA Currie Cup campaign against the Steval Pumas in Nelspruit on Friday.
Pietersen played the pivot role for the Cheetahs in the Super Rugby season but finds himself in the No 15 jersey for the Sharks, whilst Lionel Cronje assumes the No 10 role.
Other new signings Wandile Mjekevu and Philip van der Walt are operating at outside centre and No 8 respectively.
In the forwards, Jean-Luc Du Preez earns a start at blindside flank and he is partnered by Khaya Majola on the openside.
Marco Wentzel will continue his role from Super Rugby and captain the Cell C Sharks team.
“We had a good pre-season and I am happy with the composition of our team,” said head coach Gary Gold.
There is some exciting young talent coming through the ranks. Guys like Stefan Ungerer, Daniel and Jean-Luc du Preez, Monde Hadebe, Franco Marais and Thomas du Toit will be given their opportunities during the course of this campaign.
“The Pumas are a well-coached unit and are coming off a high with their win in the Vodacom Cup competition. They are always a tough prospect at home.”
Cell C Sharks: 15 Joe Pietersen, 14 S’bura Sithole, 13 Wandile Mjekevu, 12 Heimar Williams, 11 André Esterhuizen, 10 Lionel Cronje, 9 Stefan Ungerer, 8 Philip van der Walt, 7 Jean-Luc du Preez, 6 Khaya Majola, 5 Marco Wentzel (Captain), 4 Etienne Oosthuizen, 3 Lourens Adriaanse, 2 Monde Hadebe, 1 Dale Chadwick
Replacements: 16 Franco Marais, 17 Thomas du Toit, 18 Dave McDuling, 19 Daniel du Preez, 20 Francois Kleinhans, 21 Michael Claassens, 22 SP Marais.
Date: Friday 7 August
Venue: Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit
Kick-Off: 18:00 SA Time (16:00 GMT)
Referee: Jaco van Heerden
Assistant Referees: Ben Crouse, Renier Vermeulen
TMO: Johan Greeff