Sharks unleash teenage fullback Siyaya in must-win Ospreys clash
The 18-year-old steps in at fullback amid an injury crisis, as the Sharks begin a run they must win to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Black News 
The Sharks have handed 18-year-old Zekhethelo Siyaya his senior URC debut for Saturday’s crucial clash against the Ospreys in Bridgend.
THE CHANGES TO THE SHARKS LINEUP EXPLAINED
The Westville Boys’ High product earned SA Schools selection last year before representing the Junior Springboks against Georgia earlier this season. He steps into the fullback role due to an injury crisis that has ruled out Aphelele Fassi, Luan Giliomee, Hakeem Kunene and Jaco Williams.
Eben Etzebeth also misses out, having been ruled out for the remainder of the season with a hip injury this week. Springbok centre André Esterhuizen returns to captain the side after being rested for the Challenge Cup exit against Connacht. Flank Siya Kolisi remains sidelined with a calf injury despite travelling with the touring squad.
Bok props Ox Nché and Vincent Koch take their places on the bench, with Phatu Ganyane and Hanro Jacobs starting in the front row. Esterhuizen has made clear the stakes heading into this match, saying the Sharks need to win four of their remaining four games to have any chance of reaching the top eight.
TEAM
Sharks – 15 Zekhethelo Siyaya, 14 Edwill van der Merwe, 13 Le Roux Malan, 12 Andre Esterhuizen (captain), 11 Ethan Hooker, 10 Jean Smith, 9 Jaden Hendrikse, 8 Manu Tshituka, 7 Vincent Tshituka, 6 Phepsi Buthelezi, 5 Emile van Heerden, 4 Jason Jenkins, 3 Hanro Jacobs, 2 Fez Mbatha, 1 Phatu Ganyane.
Subs: 16 Eduan Swart, 17 Ox Nche, 18 Vincent Koch, 19 Corne Rahl, 20 Nick Hatton, 21 Bradley Davids, 22 Siya Masuku, 23 Jurenzo Julius.
