Sale Sharks Win: Champions Cup Last 16 – O’Flaherty Shines

JOHANNESBURG, January 10, 2026

Sharks and Sale Face Off in Rugby Clash

The Sharks and Sale Sharks are set to battle on the rugby pitch, with both teams announcing their lineups for the highly anticipated match.

• Sale Sharks have named a strong starting XV featuring experienced players like Tom Curry.
• The Sharks will counter with a lineup led by captain Lukhanyo Hatton.
• Both teams have announced comprehensive replacement benches to provide depth throughout the game.
• This match promises a physical contest between two ambitious sides.

The lineups reveal a blend of youth and experience as both teams prepare for a challenging encounter. Understanding the team compositions is crucial for predicting the flow of the game and identifying key matchups.

Sale Sharks’ Starting Lineup

Sale Sharks will take the field with Carpenter; Ene, Du Preez, Ma’asi-White, O’Flaherty; Ford, Warr; Rodd, Jibulu, Harper, Bamber, Van Rhyn (capt), Vermeulen, Dugdale, and T Curry. This selection showcases a powerful forward pack and a dynamic backline, aiming to control possession and exploit scoring opportunities.

What are the key positions for Sale Sharks in this match? The captaincy of Van Rhyn and the presence of Tom Curry highlight the team’s leadership and physicality, suggesting a strategy focused on dominating the breakdown and imposing their will on the opposition.

Replacements: Caine, McIntyre, John, Burrow, Andrews, Hanson, Louw, and Wehr are poised to provide impact from the bench, offering tactical flexibility and fresh legs as the game unfolds.

The Sharks’ Response

The Sharks have responded with a lineup of Kunene; Penxe, Venter, Julius, Malan; Masuku, Braude; Mazibuko, Swart, Koch, Rahl, Van Heerden, Mavesere, Tshituka, and Hatton (capt). Captain Lukhanyo Hatton will lead his team, hoping to inspire a strong performance against their international opponents.

The Sharks’ selection emphasizes a balanced approach, combining powerful runners with skillful playmakers. Their ability to adapt to the game’s changing dynamics will be vital for success.

Replacements: Bester, Ganyane, Mdanda, Tshituka, Romao, Everson, Smith, and Potgieter will be ready to contribute, ensuring the Sharks maintain intensity throughout the match.

The inclusion of experienced players on both sides suggests a tactical battle is anticipated, with each team looking to capitalize on their strengths and exploit any weaknesses in the opposition’s defense.

Fans can expect a compelling contest as these two teams clash, showcasing the best of rugby talent and strategic gameplay. The match promises to be a thrilling spectacle for supporters of both sides.