
Rugby
Sharks vs Ospreys Preview: Odds, Tips and Prediction
Venue: King Park Stadium Kickoff Time: 16:00 (UK Time) The Sharks welcome Ospreys to the tank for their round 17 fixture in the URC. The hosts are currently in 4th place on the log and will be likely looking to secure a home quarter-final in the playoffs. Their visitors are 14th and desperate to climb the ladder and secure a degree of pride from these remaining fixtures. A win for the Sharks could seal their top four hopes and you can be rest assured that is exactly what John Plumtree will be expecting from his chargers. For more insights and betting options, explore rugby betting sites and take advantage of the latest rugby betting offers.
SportsBoom offers honest and impartial bookmaker reviews to help you make informed choices. While we may earn commissions through affiliate links, our content remains independent and free from promotional influence. For more information, see our Content Transparency and How We Review pages.

Hollywoodbets Sharks head coach John Plumtree//Getty Images
Pre-Game Odds and Win Probability
The Sharks are considered heavy favourites by online betting sites in South Africa.
Sharks: 2/5 (1.40) – 71.4%
Ospreys: 2/1 (3.0) – 33.3%
Head-To-Head Record
Last three meetings
03/11/2023: Sharks 19–5 Ospreys
02/12/2022: Sharks 25-10 Ospreys
08/10/2021: Ospreys 27–13 Sharks
Ospreys Current Form – LLDWW
The visitors come into this game with a mixed bag of results. Their last five games have seen them win on just two occasions, but their record on the road leaves a lot to be desired.
In fairness, their recent performances against the Dragons and Scarlets respectively will allow them to find some confidence, but they know they will be up against it here.
Key Players to Watch
- George North: He is an experienced center who will offer leadership and an attacking ability to the Osprey ranks here. His composure will no doubt be a welcomed addition in Durban, especially up against a powerful Sharks attacking threat, but don’t count him or the Ospreys out too soon.
- Justin Tipuric: Another stalwart for the visitors, Tipuric is a forward who will relish the breakdown battle here alongside the physical nature of the encounter. He will not be intimidated by the abilities the Sharks may hold and will take pride in his side’s defensive stability.
- Rhys Webb: Webb is a scrumhalf who is often at the heart of quick decisions and incredible game management for his side. He will likely play a key role in the attacking nature of the visitors and will look to play a high-octane game of rugby here.
Suggested Bets
Sharks (Win): It isn’t a selection which is likely to get you too many plaudits, but we can’t see past the home win here. They are playing a great brand of rugby and still have a strong enough incentive for the points. 2/5 (1.4) with Betway.
Over 50.5 Points: The attacking talent on the pitch leads us to think this will end in a high-scoring thriller. Back over 50.5 points at generous odds. 9/10 (1.9) with Hollywoodbets.
Value Bets
Sharks to Score First and Win: They have enjoyed playing at home and are likely to get off to a blistering pace here. Back them to set an early tone and then maintain their lead and performance for the remainder of the 80 minutes. 1/1 (2.0) with Supabets.
Halftime (Ospreys) Fulltime (Sharks): It is a bit of a risky bet but back the visitors to get to the break with their noses in front. 5/1 (5.0) with 10Bet.
Prediction: Sharks to Win
Their recent form is formidable, it is only heightened by the fact that they are playing at home, and we think they get a decisive victory here. The Sharks have such an incredibly balanced team between their attacking threat and defensive solidity.
Furthermore, their team is littered with Springboks, and we can’t see past the home win.

Ryan Liberty is an experienced sports writer whose articles have featured in some of the biggest sports publications in South Africa. With a strong understanding of all major sports and an in-depth understanding of betting, Ryan consistently delivers insightful content. He's also known for his ability to break down complex topics into engaging, reader-friendly pieces.