South Africans storm Champions Cup quarters with added bite

South African sides the Stormers and the Sharks will compete in Champions Cup quarter-finals on Saturday, in a first for the country.

READ | Hammer blow for Sharks as they lose Etzebeth for Toulouse Champions Cup quarter-final

Until this season the competition, launched in 1995 as rugby union turned professional, was reserved for European clubs. The Stormers from Cape Town, Sharks from Durban and Pretoria's Bulls made their debuts in December's pool stage.

The Sharks visit record five-time winners Toulouse in the quarter-finals, who overcame the Bulls in last weekend's last 16.

Siya Kolisi's side beat Munster 50-35 last Saturday in Durban and face a long journey after numerous visits north during their United Rugby Championship campaign.

The difficulty of booking flights at short notice means the squad will be split into two over almost 24 hours.

"We don't complain, but the players' comfort comes second," Sharks assistant coach Yannick Bru told French radio station RMC Sport this week.

"It's pointless to say that we travel in business class," the former France and Toulouse hooker added.

Kolisi will be missing scrumhalf Jaden Hendrikse and lock Eben Etzebeth with injuries for the trip to Stade Ernest-Wallon, another set of flights which add to the tournament's environmental impact.

"Munster don't have world-class players in each position. That is the case though with Toulouse," Bru said before facing the likes of Antoine Dupont and Romain Ntamack.

"I know that danger comes from everywhere and we're not favourites," he added.

Later on Saturday, the Stormers visit 2020 champions Exeter, who beat Top 14 title holders Montpellier on tries scored after extra time in the last round.

Stalwarts at the English club, including No 8 Sam