Bosch goes deep

The Sharks will get the game underway with Curwin Bosch with ball in hand

Brad Shields leads the Hurricanes out

Ruan Botha leads his side out

Beauden Barrett has been ruled out of this clash and has been replaced by Ihaia West in the starting lineup

The Hurricanes have averaged just 17.6 missed tackles per match - the fewest of any side in SuperRugby

Should be a high scoring win for the Highlanders 👊🏻

Welcome to Ultimate Rugby's coverage of the opening match of Super Rugby Round 8. This match sees an inform Hurricanes side, take on a rejuvenated Sharks outfit.

The Canes have won their last four games in a row following their loss to the Bulls in their first game of the season, while the Sharks picked up only their second win of the season against the Blues last week and in doing so become the first South African side to win outside the Republic this season.

Recent history between these two sides favours the home side on the day, stay with us for what promises to be a thrilling encounter to kickstart round 8 of the competition.