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Munster vs Sharks Preview & Tips - Sharks backed to struggle in Ireland
- Munster vs Sharks predictions for Saturday’s United Rugby Championship fixture
- Match is being played at 19:35 BST at Thomond Park
- Can the Sharks push Munster close?
- Preview, tips, stats & team news
Munster reached the final of the Pro14 last season (Getty Images)
Munster vs Sharks Preview & Tips
Munster are strong at home and will be confident off seeing off the Sharks. It is a new experience for both sides however so this is difficult to call. My best bet is for Munster to cover the -20 handicap.
- Munster vs Sharks Preview & Tips
- Head to Head
- Munster Form
- MunsterTeam News
- Sharks Form
- Sharks Team News
- Munster vs Sharks FAQ
- Munster were runners-up in the last edition of the United Rugby Championship.
- Munster have won 4 of their last 5 matches.
- Sharks lost their last match 44-10.
Head to Head
This is the first competitive meeting between Munster and the Sharks.
Munster Form
Munster come into this clash desperate to get another trophy under their belt. They lost the Pro14 final 16-6 to arch-rivals Leinster 16-6 last season.
In the Rainbow Cup Munster managed four wins from their five matches but finished second to Benetton who went unbeaten.
Munster are the second most successful side in the Pro14 (now United Rugby Championship). It has been a lean few years as they’ve watched Leinster dominated.
MunsterTeam News
Munster have no injury concerns ahead of this match. Johann van Graan will have a full squad from which to pick.
Sharks Form
The Sharks will be pleased with how their season has gone recently. They made the Currie Cup final where they suffered a 44-10 defeat to the Bulls.
While the final was disappointing, the Sharks produced some very good performances throughout. They are also the South African union hardest hit by the lack of international players.
As the tournament progresses and international players become available, the Sharks will become a lot better. They still have a very strong side that should be reasonably competitive against a strong Munster outfit.
It is adapting to European conditions that will be crucial to the Sharks, as it will be for all South African sides.
Sharks Team News
Curwin Bosch will start at fullback with Boeta Chamberlain taking the flyhalf birth. Ruan Pienaar starts at scrumhalf following his loan move from the Cheetahs.
Pienaar spent most of his career playing in this competition for Ulster so he’ll bring invaluable experience.
Munster vs Sharks FAQ
Where can I watch Munster vs Sharks live stream?
Check our live streaming calendar to see where to watch Munster vs Sharks live stream.
Verdict
The Sharks were beaten comfortably in their last match 44-10. They are backed to struggle in Europe with Munster tipped to cover the -20 handicap.
