Lions present new players ahead of Currie Cup and URC campaign

On Wednesday, July 15, England midfielder Jude Bellingham became the center of attention due to an incident that occurred shortly after the referee's final whistle.

Conflict on the field

A video that quickly gained popularity online shows Bellingham shaking hands with another Argentine player on the field, reflecting on the game's outcome. After this, the Argentine players began celebrating their victory, which Valentín Barco also joined. Bellingham, who had been standing still for a while, suddenly looked angry and walked towards the group of players.

Then, the English midfielder hit Barco on the head. In response, the Argentine pushed him back. Other players quickly intervened, preventing further escalation of the situation.

Discussion of the incident

Bellingham, who scored six goals in this World Cup, could not exert the same influence against Argentina in the semi-final match. Nevertheless, internet users noted that Barco allegedly made sharp remarks throughout the entire match.

Another dispute with Messi

This incident was not the only one in which Bellingham was involved that night. Earlier in the evening, the English player was also involved in a tense conversation with Argentina captain Messi. After the match, he stated that they 'actually discussed the foul.' He added: 'But it was something bad. I'm sure everyone will do their job and exaggerate. But no, it's really nothing. I thought there was a foul earlier, and he said: 'Well, what about the one on me?' and I kind of said: 'You are strong enough to take it,' you know what I mean?' Concluding his words, he noted: 'It is a privilege to play against Messi. There was nothing against him. I am obviously on the losing side, which is very upsetting, but it is a privilege to play against him.'

The Sharks team has announced a new three-year partnership with Volkswagen, which will support the club during both training and matches. Furthermore, for the team undergoing rehabilitation, a new kit is being prepared as part of a new era, following the resumption of a partnership with one of rugby's leading sports brands—Reebok.

Reebok's Return and Club Vision

Previously, in the second half of the 1990s, Reebok was the apparel partner for the Sharks. Both parties hope that the renewal of cooperation will bring similar successes that the team demonstrated during that period, pioneering both on and off the field. Reebok and Sharks plan to launch a new collection of fan apparel designed for both sport and casual wear.

Sharks Chief Growth Officer, Michael Leslie, highlighted the significance of Reebok's return for the club. He stated that the team aims to transform the Sharks into a globally recognized brand in sports and lifestyle, and this requires partners who share that ambition. Leslie emphasized that fans are at the center of all efforts, and the club is committed to providing merchandise that reflects their journey, honors the legacy, and represents the emerging 'New Wave.'

Preparation for the Currie Cup

In light of the new era, Currie Cup coach Mike Walls has assembled a strong squad to face the Pumas on Friday evening in Mbombela. Walls explained that the campaign's goal is to give young players a chance to shine and allow more experienced athletes to regain form, thereby preparing the players for participation in the United Rugby Championship under head coach JP Pietersen.

Key players for match day include Kerron van Vuuren (former Sharks hooker, returned after playing in the USA and France), winger Tim Swiel, who previously played for the Sharks and Stormers, wing Christie Grobbelaar, midfielder Ross Braude from Canada, experienced lock Johan Momsen, who played in America and the New Zealand NPC, forward Cam Dawson from Cheetahs, as well as URC players Lee-Marvin Mazibuko, Marnus Potgieter, Ceano Everson, and Thomas Dyer, who is the captain.

Walls added that the Currie Cup squad includes more experience and depth, and the team has done thorough work by attracting players he believes will add value in terms of leadership, game time, and experience. He also noted that this group comprises players with experience in the Currie Cup and the United Rugby Championship, alongside young athletes striving for success in the competition.

Match Details

The match against the Pumas at Mbombela stadium is scheduled for Friday evening, starting at 17:00. The Sharks' starting fifteen includes Chijiendu Okonta, Christie Grobbelaar, Marnus Potgieter, Janco Purchase, Lyle Matthews, Tim Swiel, Ross Braude, Thomas Dyer (captain), Jannes Potgieter, Willem van den Hever, Deon Slabbert, Johan Momsen, Simphiwe Ngobese, Kerron van Vuuren, and Cameron Dawson. Reserves include Jacques Marais, Jaco du Toit, Lee-Marvin Mazibuko, Sipho Nonyalela, Hanu Pieterse, Ceano Everson, Chris Horak, and Matthew Fortuin.