• Home
  • Rugby
  • United Rugby Championship
timer

This preview has expired.

See all our latest betting tips or suggested betting sites

left arrow right arrow

Ulster vs Sharks Predictions - Ulster set for upset in URC against Sharks

Simon Lewis
Editor
Last updated: 25 Apr 2025

Ulster is set to clash with the Sharks in a crucial URC match as they strive to secure a top-eight finish. Despite a lackluster season, Ulster's full-strength squad aims to break its losing streak at home, trailing by just three points from the coveted eighth place. The Sharks, in better form, hover in fifth and a victory could consolidate their top-four position. However, their recent struggles signal room for Ulster to upset the odds. Squad depth might see the Sharks shuffle their lineup post a strenuous last week.

Share
Simon Lewis 25 Apr 2025
Share this article
Or copy link
success image
Copy
  • Ulster seeks a must-win against Sharks to remain URC top 8 contenders.
  • Despite poor recent form, Ulster plays at home and has a full-strength squad.
  • Sharks, in 5th place, aim for a top-four finish; have depth for lineup changes.
Expired
Ulster vs Sharks United Rugby Championship
Ulster have lost their last 2 matches. Sharks have lost 2 of their last 3 matches. (Getty Images)

Ulster vs Sharks Predictions


This should be another immense battle. The Sharks are favourites at Ulster, but the hosts need this win desperately if they are to make the top eight. I am backing the hosts to upset the odds.
  • Ulster vs Sharks Predictions
  • Head to Head
  • Ulster Form
  • Ulster Injuries & Team News
  • Sharks Form
  • Sharks Injuries & Team News

  • Ulster have lost their last 2 matches.
  • Sharks have lost 2 of their last 3 matches.

Head to Head


The Sharks beat Ulster 22-12 at home last season.

Ulster Form


Ulster have had a poor season by their standards but will be looking to end it with a bang. With three fixtures remaining, they can still make the top eight.

Currently, Ulster are 10th, three points off eighth place. This is their final home match of the URC campaign, so one would imagine victory is imperative.

Ulster won three URC games in a row against Scarlets, Dragons and Stormers, all by less than five points. But they were then beaten 43-31 in the Champions Cup before going down 41-17 to Leinster last weekend.

Ulster Injuries & Team News


Ulster will be at full strength as this is pretty much a must-win game.

Sharks Form


The Sharks have been outstanding this season if you compare it to their performance last season, but one look at their squad and most would say they are still underperforming. They are fifth on the table with 49 points, five behind the Bulls in third and eight ahead of Benetton.

Victory against Ulster will all but secure a top four finish for the Sharks while defeat probably won’t be catastrophic. They do end the season with two home fixtures against Ospreys and Scarlets, both of which should be victories.

Last weekend, the Sharks fought tooth and nail for their 18-17 victory in Edinburgh. Prior to that, they lost to Lyon in the Challenge Cup and suffered a 10-7 home loss to Leinster.

Sharks Injuries & Team News


Last week was a very physical game so expect some changes from the Sharks. However, they have a squad with plenty of depth.

Verdict

I am backing Ulster to get withing the +3.5 handicap and perhaps win the game against the odds.

Best Bet1: Ulster +3.5 Handicap @1,91 at Sportingbet - 3 Units
Best Bet2: Ulster Win Result @2,30 at Sportingbet - 1 Unit
Ulster +3.5
Handicap
@1,91 - 3 Units
Get up to R15,000 + 50 spins
100% First Deposit Bonus

Earn up to R15,000 in bonus funds PLUS 50 Free Spins when you first deposit. To get started, register and make your First Deposit *Min R10 and get 100% free up to R15,000 paid out as cash in 10 equal parts as you meet the wagering requirements. T&Cs apply.

Bet at Sportingbet
Ulster Win
Result
@2,30 - 1 Unit
Get up to R15,000 + 50 spins
100% First Deposit Bonus

Earn up to R15,000 in bonus funds PLUS 50 Free Spins when you first deposit. To get started, register and make your First Deposit *Min R10 and get 100% free up to R15,000 paid out as cash in 10 equal parts as you meet the wagering requirements. T&Cs apply.

Bet at Sportingbet
Simon Lewis

Sports Editor • 20+ years betting experience

Simon is a talented sports writer in South Africa with a strong focus on cricket having played first-team level for UCT, including playing at two Universities Weeks.


From a young age Simon was an avid reader of cricket magazines and books, and went on to be Editor of The Googly, CricketScene SA and SA Cricket, in addition to being a Features Writer on SA Sports Illustrated. 

He has interviewed most of South Africa's premier cricketers and was the first writer to interview a teenaged Jacques Kallis.

Simon has also written about English and local football, rugby and cricket, in addition to major international tennis and golf stars and competitions.

You can follow more from Simon at Muckrack, X and LinkedIn.

Read More

Top Betting Sites

South African betting sites

special-offer-1Betting offers

Upcoming Events

20 October 2026

  • Pakistan vs England ODI -
  • Cricket
  • Dolphins vs Warriors -
  • Cricket
  • UEFA Champions League -
  • Soccer

01 October 2027

  • 2027 Rugby Union World Cup -
  • Rugby Union

13 November 2027

  • 2027 Rugby World Cup Fixtures -
  • Rugby Union
Load More
26 Apr 2025

Ulster v Sharks

Copyright © 2026 All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited. Players must be 18 or over and located in jurisdictions where online gambling is legal. Please play responsibly. Bet with your head, not over it. Know when to Stop. Gamble responsibly and Think about your choices. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, and wants help, call or visit: gamcare.org.uk (UK), 800gambler.org (US), or gamblinghelponline.org.au (Australia). Gambling is addictive 18+. #Ads © 2026 Bets.co.za
Hear more from bets.co.za