The Sharks

The Sharks (known as the Cell C Sharks for sponsorship reasons) is a South African professional rugby union team based in Durban in KwaZulu Natal, they competed in the Super Rugby competition (Super 10, 1993–95; Super 12, 1996 – 2005; Super 14, 2006–10; Super Rugby 2011–2020) until 2020 and centred on the Sharks union, also based in Durban and drawing players from all of KwaZulu-Natal Province, The team plays its home matches at the Kings Park Stadium in Durban.

In 1993–1995 South Africa was represented in the Super 10 by their three top unions (top three teams from the previous years Currie Cup). Natal (as they were called then) qualified in 1993 and 1994. Natal were runners-up in 1994 after having lost to Queensland 21-10 in the final. In 1996 and 1997 South Africa was represented in the Super 12 by their four top unions rather than franchises, and Natal qualified and competed both years. They have never won any of the Super Rugby competition, but have reached the final four times, as Natal in 1996 and as the Sharks in 2001, 2007 and 2012.

The side contains many Springbok players, including Thomas du Toit, Makazole Mapimpi, Lukhanyo Am and Curwin Bosch. They have also featured many international stars including France international Frédéric Michalak.