{
  "id": 7801164,
  "title": "Sharks name another star-studded squad for the URC",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/16/sharks-name-another-star-studded-squad-for-the-urc",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-16T14:02:16.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Citizen",
    "slug": "the-citizen",
    "url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/sport/rugby/sharks-name-star-studded-squad-urc-2027-campaign/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Sharks have unveiled their 67-player squad for the 2026/27 United Rugby Championship (URC) season, under the leadership of JP Pietersen. This marks Pietersen's first full season in charge after taking over from John Plumtree midway through last year's campaign. Despite finishing 10th the previous season, the Sharks aim to turn their fortunes around with a mix of experienced players and emerging talent. The squad includes 31 backs and 36 forwards, with names like André Esterhuizen, Bongi Mbonambi, and Siya Masuku. Former All Black Ma’a Nonu will provide mentorship to the group. The Sharks will begin their URC campaign with home games against Ospreys and Leinster, before facing a tough away fixture against the Stormers.",
  "summary": "Ox Nché will now pack down with Thomas du Toit at the Sharks this season, while SA U20 captain Esethu Mnebelele could find himself between them.",
  "key_points": [
    "Sharks announce 67-player squad for URC season",
    "JP Pietersen leads team for first full season",
    "Notable players include André Esterhuizen and Ma’a Nonu"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "IOL",
        "title": "Sharks’ new-look URC squad better built for the long haul",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/16/sharks-new-look-urc-squad-better-built-for-the-long-haul",
        "published": "2026-09-16T12:58:00.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}