Sharks hit by injuries, including Eben Etzebeth, in thrilling Champions Cup win

While the Sharks were celebrating their Champions Cup last 16 triumph over Munster in Durban on Saturday, they were hit by some potentially serious injuries during their thrilling 50-35 victory. 

READ | Sharks thump Munster in Durban try-fest

Springbok scrumhalf Jaden Hendrikse left the field when he hurt himself scoring a first-half try, star player Eben Etzebeth did not return for the second half and replacement lock, Emile van Heerden was also injured towards the end of the game. 

All three are understood to have shoulder injuries. 

Etzebeth and Hendrikse, in particular, will be huge concerns ahead of next weekend's Champions Cup quarter-final against Toulouse or the Bulls. 

"We'll assess the injuries with the medical team and get clarity," said Powell after the match. 

"Emile van Heerden also picked up a shoulder injury, which put us in a difficult spot having two locks injured.

"We'll assess them and see if they recover in time for next weekend's game. If not, then it's an opportunity for another guy to come in. We hope they're okay because they're big players in the team, but that's why you have a squad."

Powell praised his side for their efforts in front of an electric Kings Park crowd on Saturday - they scored seven tries on the afternoon - but he said they would have to improve their defensive efforts if they wanted to mount a challenge in the competition. 

The coach was also pleased with the performances of his Springbok stars, who misfired against Scarlets the weekend before in a United Rugby Championship defeat. 

"It was a big turnaround from last week's game, so credit must go to the team," said Powell. 

"From an attacking point of view, it was a great performance, but we do set high standards for ourselves, so from a