Sharks and Munster Clash in Durban: A URC Rematch with Playoff Implications
Durban, South Africa – Hollywoodbets Kings Park will host a highly anticipated United Rugby Championship (URC) clash between the Hollywoodbets Sharks and Munster Rugby on Saturday, March 21st, 2026, at 5:00 PM local time (3:00 PM Irish time).1 The match is a rematch of last season’s dramatic quarterfinal, which the Sharks won after a penalty shootout.1
Team Lineups and Key Changes
The Hollywoodbets Sharks have made eight changes to their team following a 41-12 defeat against the Bulls in Pretoria.3 Springbok captain Siya Kolisi returns to the starting lineup, earning his 50th cap for the Sharks.3 Other notable changes include the return of Ethan Hooker to partner Andre Esterhuizen in the midfield, and Luan Giliomee starting at fullback.3 Makazole Mapimpi will play in his 100th cap for the Hollywoodbets Sharks.3
Hollywoodbets Sharks Starting XV: Phatu Ganyane, Fez Mbatha, Hanro Jacobs, Jason Jenkins, Emile van Heerden, Siya Kolisi, Vincent Tshituka, Phepsi Buthelezi, Grant Williams, Jordan Hendrikse, Yaw Penxe, Ethan Hooker, Andre Esterhuizen (capt), Makazole Mapimpi, Luan Giliomee.3
Munster, captained by JJ Hanrahan, has also made changes to their lineup.2 Six changes have been made to the side that previously defeated Zebre, with Tom Ahern, Alex Nankivell, and John Hodnett returning from injury.2 Ethan Coughlan, Diarmuid Barron, and Seán Edogbo also join the starting lineup.2 This will be JJ Hanrahan’s 155th appearance for the province and 150th game in the URC.2
Munster Starting XV: M Haley, C Nash, T Farrell, A Nankivell, S Daly, JJ Hanrahan (capt), E Coughlan, M Milne, D Barron, M Ala’alatoa, J Kleyn, T Ahern, S Edogbo, J Hodnett, G Coombes.2
Key Match Details
- Date: Saturday, March 21st, 2026
- Time: 5:00 PM local time (3:00 PM Irish time)
- Venue: Hollywoodbets Kings Park, Durban
- Referee: Sam Grove-White (Scotland)1, 3
Looking Ahead
With playoff positioning at stake, both teams will be looking to secure a victory. The match promises physicality and attacking threats from both sides.1 The game will be streamed live on FloRugby and the FloSports app in the United States.1