The Hollywoodbets Sharks may have battled their way to the final of the EPCR Challenge Cup this season, but their form in the final against Gloucester will be keenly watched by several URC teams as it will influence their qualification for next season’s Investec Champions Cup.
While the URC teams generally would support each other in a major cup competition against teams from another league, the Sharks’ appearance in the Challenge Cup final could have major implications for teams that are vying for a spot in next season’s Champions Cup because of the structure of the competition.
As the season starts to gear towards a climax, the race for places in the playoffs is hotting up, with the extra spice of a place in the Champions Cup next season fuelling the final two rounds of the regular season in a flurry of permutations.The top four teams, Glasgow Warriors, Leinster, Munster and the Vodacom Bulls, have already booked their playoff spots and therefore their places in the Champions Cup, but the bunfight over the other four playoff spots promises to be heated.
The Stormers are on 50 points, with Ulster , Edinburgh , Benetton , Connacht , Lions and Ospreys all still with mathematical chances of making the top eight.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Plumtree sings Fassi's praises as Sharks prioritise Challenge Cup final ahead of Cardiff URC clashPlumtree sings Fassi's praises as Sharks prioritise Challenge Cup final ahead of Cardiff URC clash
Read more »
Sharks to use URC to get ready for Challenge Cup semi-finalThe Sharks will focus on the United Rugby Championship as they prepare for next month's Challenge Cup semi-final with Clermont.
Read more »
Three major injury concerns for Sharks ahead of Challenge Cup finalSharks coach John Plumtree is worried abut three of his key players who picked up injuries in the URC clash against Benetton.
Read more »
John Plumtree thanks Sharks fans living in UK for helping team reach Challenge Cup finalSharks coach John Plumtree has thanked the fans living in London for supporting the team in the Challenge Cup semi-final.
Read more »
Sharks to face Gloucester in Challenge Cup final: Here’s WHEN and WHEREThe Sharks succeeded in their quest to become the first South African franchise to qualify for the Challenge Cup final.
Read more »
Iceman Masuku shows match-winning ability as Sharks sneak into Challenge Cup finalIceman Masuku shows match-winning ability as Sharks sneak into Challenge Cup final
Read more »