Cell C Sharks head coach Sean Everitt has had the luxury of freshening up his pack after their sterling work in the last few weeks, giving some of his hard-working forwards a respite, although their valued performances of late mean they will be provide serious options off the bench.

In total the coach made five changes to last week’s side - four of which were in the pack.

In the second row, Le Roux Roets gets a start in place of Reniel Hugo, while there is an all-new back row comprising James Venter, Jeandre Labuschagne (both flanks) and Phepsi Buthelezi (No 8). They will take over from Siya Kolisi, Henco Venter and Sikhumbuzo Notshe respectively.

The only change in the backline sees scrumhalf Jaden Hendrikse replace Grant Williams as the coach aims to provide stability and build continuity in the squad.

With Kolisi playing off the bench, Springbok prop Thomas du Toit has been handed the captaincy.

Casting his eye over their opponents this week, Everitt believed the Dragons will be stronger than their recent form of late.

"All the Europeans teams will be stronger than what we’ve faced over the last couple of weeks because they’re getting their players back from Six Nations duty," said Everitt.

“So no team in this competition can be underestimated. If you’re off your game on the day, you can get a big hiding.”

For the Cell C Sharks, this is about putting in a big performance.

“For us, it’s about being more accurate in our execution and hoping to improve on Friday night," he said.

Cell C Sharks: 15. Anthony Volmink, 14. Werner Kok, 13. Ben Tapuai, 12. Jeremy Ward, 11. Makazole Mapimpi, 10. Curwin Bosch, 9. Jaden Hendrikse, 8. Phepsi Buthelezi, 7. Jeandre Labushagne, 6. James Venter, 5. Gerbrandt Grobler, 4. Le Roux Roets, 3. Thomas du Toit (captain), 2. Bongi Mbonambi, 1. Ox Nche. Replacements: 16. Kerron van Vuuren, 17. Ntuthuko Mchunu, 18. Khutha Mchunu, 19. Reniel Hugo, 20. Sikhumbuzo Notshe, 21. Siya Kolisi, 22. Grant Williams, 23. Boeta Chamberlain