A relatively young, yet talented, 16-man squad led by the experienced, Jean Deysel, have been drawn in Pool B alongside European Champions Saracens, Top 14 holders Stade Francais Paris and an Asia Pacific Invitational, that features former Cell C Sharks wing, Tonderai Chavhanga.

All matches will be played at Anjalay Stadium and rugby enthusiasts from around the world will converge on the island for two days of entertaining rugby that will have a distinct “7s” feel about it.

Commenting on the draw and our participation in the tournament, Ryan Strudwick, coach of the Cell C Sharks Invitational team said:  “We are delighted to be drawn in Pool B, which sees us in the company of three other fantastic and highly talented teams.  It is going to be a competitive, yet exciting tournament that will highlight the camaraderie and spirit of our beautiful game.”

Jean Deysel can count on the support of Joe Pietersen, Kyle Cooper and Dale Chadwick, the other experienced campaigners in the touring squad, who will no doubt provide much guidance to the young and enthusiastic players around them.

A four-man management team will accompany the squad, with Ryan Strudwick named as Head Coach.  He will be assisted by AB Zondagh, with former Sharks stalwart and current Player Development Manager, Jacques Botes, assuming the role of team manager for the tour.  The final member of the management team is physiotherapist, Callie Hugo.

Cell C Sharks Invitational Squad

1. Ayron Schramm
2. Dale Chadwick
3. Graham Geldenhuys
4. Grant Rattray
5. Jaywin Juries
6. Jean Deysel (C)
7. Jean Droste
8. Joe Pietersen
9. Kerron van Vurren
10. Kyle Cooper
11. Malcolm Cele
12. Morne Joubert
13. Neil Maritz
14. Sandile Kubeka
15. Thobekani Buthelezi
16. Tristan Blewett

Courtesy of The Sharks