Sharks not taking weakened Leinster lightly, says Phepsi Buthelezi

Sharks loose-forward Phepsi Buthelezi believes that Leinster isn't a side to be taken lightly despite the Irish juggernaut touring with a weakened side to South Africa.

Leinster visit the Sharks in Durban this weekend (Saturday 18:15 kick-off) before heading to Cape Town for a showdown with the Stormers next week.

Many of the stars that dismantled Connacht in the Champions Cup, however, didn't make the trip south.

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International winger James Lowe, who nearly scored a hat-trick last weekend, British & Irish Lions tighthead Tadhg Furlong and back row enforcer Jack Conan, veteran lock Devin Toner, flyhalf Jonathan Sexton and centre Robbie Henshaw are part of a slew of headline omissions.

Andrew Porter, Ronan Kelleher, Michael Ala'alatoa, Josh Murphy, Rhys Ruddock and Ciaran Frawley were the only survivors from the Connacht encounter.

Buthelezi, however, deemed the side good enough to be taken seriously regardless.

"We know that it's still going to be a very good Leinster side," the Sharks No 8 said.

"Even though they are not bringing some of their big names, they will still have about 10 internationals in the side.

"So, they are still bringing down a very good side. Nothing changes on our side in terms of preparation.

"We are really preparing well for this game because we know how tough it's going to be.

"Leinster are a quality side, with or without their internationals."

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The Sharks, according to Phepsi, have learnt lessons from the last opponent they were expected to put away handsomely but tripped up to: Edinburgh.

Head coach Sean Everitt's men lost 21-5 at home late last month in torrid