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Watson a doubt against Sharks

Cape Town - Kings captain Luke Watson remains in doubt for their Super Rugby clash against the Sharks at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth on Saturday night.

Watson is struggling with a throat injury and, according to Die Burger's website, was again unable to train with his team-mates on Monday. He still endures pain since leaving the field in their 22-10 win over the Force on February 23.

However, Vleis Engelbrecht played well against the Force and showed in Watson's absence that he is a force to be reckoned with. Engelbrecht favours the No 8 position so a decision on where to pick him must still be made.

Cornell du Preez, who played No 8 against the Force, is also comfortable at flank, while hard-working flank Wimpie van der Walt should be the other loose forward in the starting line-up. One of Devin Oosthuizen, Tomas Leonardi or Mpho Mbiyozo can be used as substitute loose forward.

Should Watson sit out, centre Andries Strauss will again lead the side.

Tighthead prop Schalk Ferreira is struggling with a rib injury and was also unable to train on Monday. Jaco Engels is his likely replacement.

Amongst the backs, Argentine scrumhalf Nicolas Vergallo could make his debut off the bench, with Shaun Venter likely to again start at No 9.

Their clash against the Sharks kicks off at 19:10 on Saturday.

HAVE YOUR SAY: How do you rate the Kings' chances against the Sharks this weekend. Can they cause an upset and win? Send your thoughts to Sport24.
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