Durban — The most intriguing addition to the Sharks’ URC touring team is experienced flyhalf Fred Zeilinga, who was brought in as a replacement after the Sharks suffered a preseason injury in the position.
Both Curwin Bosch and Lionel Cronje suffered arm fractures, leaving Boeta Chamberlain as the only available 10 and a clear need for a replacement.
At this point in the season, it is nearly impossible to find an unsigned flyhalf of average quality, but the Sharks have struck gold with Zeilinga, a Durban native who has returned to his roots.
Prior to joining the Cheetahs, Zeilinga played for the Sharks from 2013 to 2015 before attending Glenwood High, which is located near Hollywoodbets Kings Park. He then spent time in Japan and is currently playing with the Lions.
Thomas du Toit will lead the 28-man tour group to Europe, where they will play Zebre at the Stadio Lanfranchi in Parma on Friday night before traveling to Wales and Ireland to face the Dragons and Leinster, respectively.
On October 15, the Sharks will host the Glasgow Warriors for their first home match at Kings Park.
SHARKS TOURING Squad
FORWARDS
Daniel Jooste, Fezokuhle Mbatha, Kerron van Vuuren, Ntuthuko Mchunu, Dian Bleuler, Thomas du Toit (capt), Hanro Jacobs, Carlu Sadie, Daniel Hugo, Justin Basson, Hyron Andrews, Gerbrandt Grobler, Sikhumbuzo Notshe, Phendulani Buthelezi, Dylan Richardson, James Venter
BACKS
Grant Williams, Cameron Wright, Zee Mkhabela, Boeta Chamberlain, Ben Tapuai, Rohan Janse Van Rensburg, Marnus Potgieter, Werner Kok, Thaakir Abrahams, Anthony Volmink, Aphelele Fassi, Fred Zeilinga
Due to injuries, the following players were not considered:
Curwin Bosch, Eduan Keyter, Henco Venter, Jeandre Labuschagne, Khutha Mchunu, Le Roux Roets, Lionel Cronje, Mpilo Gumede, Murray Koster, Tinotenda Mavesere, and Vincent Tshituka are all members of the South African national rugby team.