Why Sharks did not rush Boks back for Dragons clash: 'We respect their need for a rest'

Sean Everitt says the Sharks will reintegrate the Springboks back into their team from next week but for now, their superstars can enjoy a break following the end of the Rugby Championship.

Everitt didn't name any additional Springboks to his match-day 23 that will do duty against the Dragons in Newport on Saturday night, preferring to give them a rest while the Sharks tour Europe.

The Sharks have one more assignment overseas, against the fearsome Irish, Leinster, next weekend, which might twist Everit's arm into calling for reinforcements.

But for now, the head coach hasn't flinched.

"Our Springboks have been given the week off this week and they'll integrate into training next week back in Durban," Everitt said.

"With regard to injury, if we need to call them in next week we will but I prefer for them to get up to date with what we had been doing during our pre-season and what we'd implemented."

Meanwhile, Bok skipper Siya Kolisi is having a blast visiting his favourite English football club Liverpool.

With the Sharks boasting the heaviest Springbok contingent of all the United Rugby Championship (URC) teams, they will be heavily tested in depth in the next fortnight.

Already, Zebre Parma took them through the wringer last week when they almost snatched an incredible comeback, only to be denied by foul play on Werner Kok, which scratched out Jacopo Trulla's winner.

The Boks also won't be long in the URC before returning to camp for their end-year tour to France, Ireland, Italy and England.

"It's a little bit different for us than the other unions because we have a large number of Springboks at the Sharks," said Everitt.

"Fortunately for us, they are a group of players that prepare really well. Although they have missed out on the