Rugby Championship : Kolisi's Injury Delays Milestone as Sharks Adjust Ahead of Cardiff

Siya Kolisi's 50th appearance for the Sharks is on hold due to a calf issue. The Springboks captain was set to play against Munster but withdrew just before the match. He misses the Sharks' upcoming clash with Cardiff, leaving Nick Hatton, Vincent Tshituka, and Phepsi Buthelezi as the loose trio. JP Pietersen states the coaching staff is assessing Kolisi week by week. "He feels good some days, but not others," Pietersen explains, emphasizing uncertainty around his return. Edwill van der Merwe's omission from the matchday 23 surprises many, but Pietersen insists it's a strategic decision to maintain consistency after the win over Munster. Rookie Luan Giliomee gets the nod at full-back, teaming up with Makazole Mapimpi and Yaw Penxe. The only changes come in the backline, with Bradley Davids and Ethan Hooker returning to action. Kolisi could make his milestone appearance next weekend against Connacht if fit.