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The Sharks vs The Bulls Preview: Odds, Tips and Prediction

Venue: Kings Park Stadium Kickoff Time: 17:05 (CAT Time) We preview the United Rugby Championship clash between the Sharks and the Bulls on Saturday afternoon in Durban. This is one of South Africa’s longest rivalries, and it hardly ever disappoints. The hosts have enjoyed playing at home and come into this game after a confidence-inducing performance against the Saracens under their new head coach, JP Pietersen. The Bulls will not be intimidated, though, and you can expect them to bring a fight to the Shark Tank. For fans and punters, ensure you engage with the best rugby betting sites to ensure you get your bets on early and ahead of kick-off

Ryan Liberty
Ryan Liberty

Last updated: 2025-12-15

Chad Nagel

5 minutes read

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Grant Williams with fellow Hollywoodbets Sharks players

Grant Williams with fellow Hollywoodbets Sharks players/Getty Images

Pre-Game Odds and Win Probability:

  1. Sharks: 13/10 (2.30) – 43.5%

Head-To-Head Record

DateMatchResult
25/05/24Bulls vs SharksBulls 36–12 Sharks
30/12/23Sharks vs BullsSharks 20–17 Bulls
07/10/23Bulls vs SharksBulls 25–24 Sharks
22/04/23Sharks vs BullsBulls 34–10 Sharks
04/01/23Bulls vs SharksSharks 23–22 Bulls
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Sharks Current Form – WLLWL

The Sharks have struggled with form in recent weeks. Even while they have an absolute entourage of international Springbok players in their local ranks, they have often flattered to deceive and failed to find any sort of momentum in domestic competition. 
The change of coach has gotten off to a flyer of a start as JP Pietersen saw his side dethrone the Saracens at the weekend. The Sharks weren’t perfect, but there were moments where they showed what they are capable of. They will need to be at their best here, but you can expect their fans to bring their usual electric energy. 

Key Players to Watch

  • Siya Kolisi
    His presence in this Sharks side is something which should not be taken for granted. On and off the field, he absolutely embraces his emotional aspect and allows it to add to his powerful and physical approach in the game. Keep an eye on him here. 
  • Aphelele Fassi 
    The danger he poses during broken play is simply second to none, but it is more his counter-attacking aspect that impresses most. A constant threat due to his speed and physicality, the Sharks might look like they rely on his kicking game to keep the pressure on their visitors from the Highveld. 
  • Ethan Hooker 
    Ethan has had an incredible breakout year. He just keeps grabbing all opportunities with both hands and makes it incredibly difficult for coaches to leave him out. He is a scary combination of physicality and speed, and whether he is deployed through the midfield or out wide, he will be a handful for this Bulls side.

Bulls Current Form – LLLLW

While the Bulls are always a tough side to face, especially in South Africa, their current run of form largely gives their opponents a lot of confidence. Their inconsistency and inability to put games to bed have cost them, especially on the road. They now face a trip to the Kwa-Zulu Natal coastline and a Sharks side who seem to be building and finding confidence. 
The visitors will have to keep things tight early on and ensure they manage the intensity of a stadium likely to be bouncing come Saturday afternoon 

Key Players to Watch

  • Marcell Coetzee
    He is just relentless at the breakdown, and given his hunger for defensive opportunity, he is one to keep an eye on. He is an incredible defensive player and will no doubt be central to the Bulls’ ability to contain the Sharks' pack. 
  • Johan Goosen
    Whether or not he will make the starting XV for their trip to Durban remains a doubt, but if he is fit to play for the Pretoria-based franchise, he could be a game-changer. His kicking accuracy allows his side to remain relevant and will ask unique questions of the Sharks' defensive ability.
  • Canan Moodie 
    Another explosive player through the Bulls’ midfield. He is the sort of player who will relish the intensity of this environment and thrive under the incredible pressure. There aren’t many who are able to stop Moodie in one-on-one situations, and so if he finds space on Saturday afternoon, keep an eye on him. There is no doubt he will be key to their success.

Suggested Bet

  1. Sharks Win: The hosts have shown that they can find a better performance within the quality they hold. They have enjoyed playing at home and are likely to ride the momentum of a positive Kings Park experience. Back JP Pietersen to find a second win in as many outings at the helm of this historic club. 13/10 (2.3) with Betway.

  2. Total Points (Under 52.5): Neither side can really afford to lose this game, and so I expect a cagey affair. Expect the defensive aspects to be rigid and “safe” for large parts of the game on Saturday – Under 52.5 seems like a shrewd betting opportunity. 1.80 with YesPlay. 

Value Bet

  1. Winning Margin 1-7 (Sharks): Given the cagey aspect of this encounter, the difference between them is not likely to be something crazy. The Sharks will know the value of a win here, but it will be tough. Back the hosts to grind out a win, but see the Bulls stay within 7. 3/1 (4.0) with Supabets. 

Prediction: Sharks to Win

Saturday is set up to be an incredibly exciting encounter. Durban loves a Saturday evening encounter and even more so when it is a derby. The Bulls will give a good account of themselves, and their usual physicality will be on full display. Nevertheless, the quality the hosts possess on this side is out of this world, and I think they manage a huge result here. Back the Sharks to come away with a big win.

Ryan Liberty
Ryan LibertyBetting Writer

A quirky writer with an engaging tone, Ryan Liberty has seen his work published on many of South Africa’s sport’s publications. Ryan has a great passion for everything in the sporting world, from darts to football, motorsport and everything in between. His conversational flair allows him to bring diverse sporting topics to both the avid sports fan as well as the relaxed reader.