Sharks desperate for happy tour

The Sharks have arrived in Australia eager to turnaround their fortunes after two consecutive defeats at home.

After they were dismantled by the Jaguares two weeks ago, the Reds added to their woes on Easter Friday.

They will now have to contend with another Australian outfit, when they meet the Waratahs in Sydney this Saturday.

It is the start of a three-match tour which also see them play the Chiefs and Crusaders in New Zealand.

Coach Rob Du Preez says he would like to give every player in his 27-man touring squad a chance to feature at some stage.

Social media has been awash with unhappy Sharks fans, voicing their opinion on their team’s recent form. Du Preez is well aware of how the support base feels and believes the new scenery is exactly what his team needs to reignite their campaign. He says the boys are in good spirits.

Like the Sharks, the Waratahs have also struggled for consistency. They have won four out of eight games this season but still occupy second spot on the Australian conference table.

They narrowly beat the Rebels 23-20 last weekend. Du Preez says they know what to expect from them.

The game will take place at the new Bankwest Stadium in Parramatta.

It is the first time the venue will host a Super Rugby match and Du Preez is hoping his side can capitalise on the Tahs lack of experience at the Stadium. -Reporting by Thahir Asmal