- André Esterhuizen was among four Sharks players injured during their 36-21 URC victory over Cardiff
- The Sharks captain limped off in the opening minute after appearing to injure his leg and did not return
- Coach JP Pietersen praised his team's resilience as the Sharks secured a bonus-point win despite the injuries
Springbok centre André Esterhuizen was among four Sharks players injured during their 36-21 United Rugby Championship (URC) victory over Cardiff on Saturday, 24 October 2026.
According to The Citizen, Esterhuizen appeared to injure his leg after the first aerial contest in the opening minute at Arms Park. The Sharks captain limped off the field and did not return to the match.
His injury raises concerns about his availability for the Springboks' return to the Nations Championship next month, although no confirmed diagnosis or recovery timeline was provided in the report.
The Sharks overcame the setback to secure five log points, scoring two tries in the final five minutes to seal their bonus-point victory.
André Esterhuizen among four Sharks injury concerns
Esterhuizen was not the only Sharks player to leave the match with an injury. According to The Citizen, prop Phatu Ganyane, centre Jurenzo Julius and lock Jason Jenkins were also injured before half-time.
The four injuries left head coach JP Pietersen facing potential selection concerns ahead of the Sharks' next URC fixture against Munster in Limerick.
Pietersen said the team had suffered four injuries in quick succession, describing the situation as a setback. However, he praised his players for remaining composed when Cardiff threatened to take control of the contest.
The Sharks had been trailing 21-17 while playing against the wind before fighting back to extend their lead to 24-21 and then scoring twice late in the match.
JP Pietersen praises Sharks' resilience after Cardiff win
Pietersen credited the team's leadership group, including Nick Hatton and Emile van Heerden, for helping the Sharks stay in the contest despite losing several players.
He said the team had found a way to keep going and grow closer together, praising the players for their commitment to the Sharks' identity.
The coach also described collecting five points in Cardiff as special, but stressed that the team needed to remain focused ahead of the trip to Munster.
Pietersen said the Sharks would assess the injuries over the weekend before deciding whether to bring in additional players to help complete their European tour.
Esterhuizen's fitness will be closely watched by Springbok supporters, given his recent involvement in the national side. The centre featured in the last six Springbok Tests, including four matches against the All Blacks, as well as Tests against Argentina and Australia. He also captained South Africa against Australia.
Source: Briefly News