Esterhuizen and Mapimpi return for Sharks, but Etzebeth misses out against Zebre

The Sharks will have a Bok boost for their United Rugby Championship game against Zebre in the form of Andre Esterhuizen and Makazole Mapimpi

Esterhuizen will play off the bench at the Shark Tank as he makes his way back from a long-term knee injury while Mapimpi returns from suspension and slots in at his customary left wing position.

This means Ethan Hooker moves back to his preferred position at inside centre to set up an exciting partnership with Junior Springbok Player of the Year Jurenzo Julius. Lukhanyo Am is not available for selection because of a hamstring injury and Grant Williams is also on the injury list with other backs in Siya Masuku and Aphelele Fassi.

At halfback, brothers Jaden and Jordan Hendrikse combine while Henry Immelman, on loan from the Bulls, continues at fullback after a promising performance against the Lions.

In the forwards, Vincent Tshituka is back from injury at blindside flank but the captaincy goes to Siya Kolisi at No 8, a position where coach John Plumtree believes the Springbok captain can add significant value.

Springbok legend Eben Etzebeth was not available for selection.

Sharks XV: 15 Henry Immelman 14 Yaw Penxe 13 Jurenzo Julius 12 Ethan Hooker 11 Makazole Mapimpi 10 Jordan Hendrikse 9 Jaden Hendrikse 8 Siya Kolisi (captain) 7 Vincent Tshituka 6 Phepsi Buthelezi 5 Emile van Heerden 4 Jason Jenkins 3 Vincent Koch 2 Bongi Mbonambi 1 Ox Nche. Bench: 16 Fez Mbatha 17 Ntuthuko Mchunu 18 Hanro Jacobs 19 Corne Rahl 20 James Venter 21 Bradley Davids 22 Francois Venter23 Andre Esterhuizen.