Share

Strong Saracens await Sharks

London - English club Saracens have named a powerful 23-man squad for the historic north-south clash here against the Sharks at Allianz Park on Saturday, January 25.

The Saracens squad features 10 South African-born players, as well as Namibian Jacques Burger.

Centre Brad Barritt and scrumhalf Neil de Kock are among the backs, while Schalk Brits (hooker), Matt Stevens, Petrus du Plessis (props), Alistair Hargreaves, Mouritz Botha (locks), Burger, Nick Fenton-Wells, Justin Melck and Ernst Joubert (loose forwards) feature up front.

Saracens' Director of Rugby, Mark McCall, told Saracens' official website they take the game seriously and will be looking to topple Jake White's men.

“The Sharks are one of the strongest teams in the Super XV, and we’re really looking forward to the challenge. Our match against the Springboks four years ago was one of the greatest occasions in the club’s history, and this will be a similar kind of one-off event… the Premiership leaders against South Africa’s Currie Cup champions. We will field our strongest possible side," said McCall.

Saracens squad to face the Sharks:


Backs: Chris Wyles, David Strettle, Michael Tagicakibau, Marcelo Bosch, Brad Barritt, Duncan Taylor, Sam Stanley, Charlie Hodgson, Neil de Kock, Richard Wigglesworth.

Forwards: Richard Barrington, Nick Auterac, Schalk Brits, Jamie George, Matt Stevens, Petrus du Plessis, Steve Borthwick (captain), Alistair Hargreaves, Mouritz Botha, Jacques Burger, Nick Fenton-Wells, Justin Melck, Ernst Joubert.
We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2247 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE