Sharks XV vs Lions: Preview and Predictions

Round 6 of the 2026 Carling Currie Cup Premier Division continues with another exciting encounter as the Hollywoodbets Sharks XV take on the Fidelity ADT Lions on Friday, 21 August. The Sharks XV sit in seventh position on the log with 10 points. The Lions sit in fifth position with 13 points.  

Both sides enter this match on a low after losses last weekend. The Sharks XV lost 21-55 to the Suzuki Griquas. This came after their second win of the season against the Sanlam Boland Kavaliers.  

The Lions, on the other hand, come in on back-to-back losses. They lost 29-38 to the Sanlam Boland Kavaliers last weekend and 19-31 to the Suzuki Griquas the weekend before.  

Which team has what it takes to bounce back and win this match? 

Why This Match Matters So Much   

With the Currie Cup semi-final race heating up, there is little room for error for either team. 

The Lions have 13 points and currently occupy fifth place, just outside the top four. The Sharks XV are three points further back in seventh. A victory for either side would provide a much-needed boost before the final rounds. 

The Sharks will also be determined to respond after their 34-point loss to the Griquas. They were competitive in the first half but conceded 29 unanswered points after half-time. 

The Lions face their own challenge after throwing away a 17-0 lead against Boland before eventually losing 38-29. They will need to show greater consistency if they are to leave Pietermaritzburg with a crucial away win. 

Tactical Overview  

The Sharks XV are likely to look for a reaction through their pack after their heavy defeat in Kimberley. They have made several changes to the starting side, including the return of lock Deon Slabbert, who brings additional experience and leadership to the forward pack. 

The Sharks have also reshuffled their loose forwards, with Tino Mavesere moving back to No. 8 and Meno Barnard shifting to flank. Tim Swiel remains at flyhalf, with Ross Braude continuing as captain at scrumhalf. 

The Lions, meanwhile, have made several changes of their own. Their new-look front row features Juan Schoeman, Armand Combrinck and Conraad van Vuuren, while Jarod Cairns captains the side from openside flank. 

The Lions will need to avoid another second-half collapse. Against Boland, they were unable to maintain their early advantage, so game management and discipline could be crucial against a Sharks side looking to bounce back. 

Players to Watch  

Phiwayinkosi Kubheka (Sharks XV)  

The 20-year-old prop, Phiwayinkosi Kubheka, has established himself as a player to watch. His scrummaging, work rate and ability to carry the ball could make him a key figure as the Sharks look to get their Currie Cup campaign back on track. 

Jaord Cairns (Lions)  

Captain of the Lions, Jarod Cairns, is a key player to watch. Cairns brings plenty of energy to the Lions’ loose-forward trio and will be particularly important at the breakdown. His ability to compete for possession, make tackles and keep the Lions moving forward could prove valuable against a Sharks XV side that will be determined to respond after their heavy 55-21 defeat to the Suzuki Griquas. 

Starting Lineup (Sharks XV)  

1. Phiwayinkosi Kubheka  

2. Liam van Wyk 

3. Simphiwe Ngobese 

4. Johan Momsen 

5. Deon Slabbert 

6. Jean-Henri Smit 

7. Meno Barnard 

8. Tino Mavesere 

9. Ross Braude (C) 

10. Tim Swiel 

11. Khuthi Rasivhaga 

12. Janco Purchase 

13. Lyle Matthews 

14. Christie Grobbelaar 

15. Luan Giliomee 

Replacements  

16. Jacques Marais 

17. Jaco du Toit 

18. Dian Heunis 

19. Danio Botha 

20. Wasi Vyambwera 

21. Juan Loots 

22. Siya Masuku 

23. Albie Bester 

Starting Lineup (Lions)  

1. Juan Schoeman 

2. Armand Combbrinck 

3. Conraad van Vuuren 

4. Siba Qoma 

5. JD Hattingh 

6. Thando Biyela 

7. Jarod Cairns (C) 

8. Renzo du Plessis 

9. Zian Cilliers 

10. Sam Francis 

11. Latica Nela 

12. Rynhardt Jonker 

13. Likhona Finca 

14. Keagan Smith 

15. Gilermo Mentoe 

Replacements  

16. Mahle Sithole 

17. Liyema Ntshanga 

18. Siya Dube 

19. Dylan Sjoblem 

20. Vuyo Gwiji 

21. Asad Moos 

22. Ethan Adams 

23. Luke Cannon  

Match Details 

Date: 21 August 2026  

Venue: Woodburn Stadium, Pietermaritzburg 

Kick-off Time: 19:15pm  

TV: SuperSport  

Prediction  

This is a difficult match to call, with both sides desperate for a response. The Lions have the better position on the log, but their recent form is a concern after back-to-back defeats. 

The Sharks’ heavy loss to the Griquas was equally worrying, but home advantage and the return of Deon Slabbert could give them the lift they need. They have also shown they can compete in this competition, and a response is expected after their second-half collapse in Kimberley. 

Prediction: Sharks XV to win  

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