Sharks coach Sean Everitt is not underestimating the Dragons despite resting two of his Springboks, captain Siya Kolisi and Sikhumbuso Notshe for their clash on Friday.
Rather, the coach explained, they were resting some raw bones after their 21-5 defeat to Edinburgh last week.
In for the big names are James Venter, Jeandre Labuschagne and Phepsi Buthelezi in the back row.
“The rotation is premeditated. It’s not because of the consequences of the loss,” Everitt said.
“The team did everything in their power to win that game. We won every aspect of that game, from the power game to the metres kicked.
“We just felt that next week is five games in a row, and from my experience, players start to fatigue after game four, so it was a good opportunity to freshen it up after a tough three weeks.
“[Last week’s result at Loftus] has got nothing to do with it. The Dragons will be a different kettle of fish here in Durban.
“They’ve flown in four international players this week – three forwards, one fullback – so we’re expecting a physical onslaught from them. They mustn’t be underestimated at all.”
Everitt explained it was a luxury having Kolisi and Notshe on the bench as an insurance policy, should things go awry, but said he had full confidence in the ability of Venter at six.
“I am confident in the back-row. James showed again that, when he’s on form, he’s probably one of the best No 6s in South Africa,” said Everitt.
“He was called up to the Green and Gold team last year after some really good performances. He’s been outstanding in the Currie Cup and led the side with aplomb.
“He does bring a bit of experience amongst the two 23-year-olds, Jeandre and Phepsi.
“Phepsi’s performed well and we felt that we had to give Notshe a string of games to get him back into full fitness because of his long injury layoff.
“It’s another opportunity for Phepsi to continue the form he had before Notshe came back. Jeandre is a good lineout option and has played exceptionally well in URC.
“It’s great that we have depth in those positions.”
