Challenge Cup: Semi-final ties and dates revealed

David Skippers 14 Apr 2024 1:45 PM

Makazole Mapimpi and Bongi Mbonambi Sharks URC 2024 - Alamy.jpg — Sharks duo Makazole Mapimpi and Bongi Mbonambi.

The semi-finalists for this year’s Challenge Cup have been announced and the big news is that the Sharks are set to travel to London to host Clermont Auvergne in their play-off encounter.

Meanwhile, Gloucester will be the home side in their semi-final against Italian outfit Benetton. Both semi-finals are scheduled to take place on the weekend of May 3, 4 and 5.

Sharks to play at neutral venue

European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR) announced earlier this season that South African clubs will only receive home-ground advantage up to the quarter-finals, which means they will have to play at a neutral venue in the semi-finals.

Sharks head coach John Plumtree confirmed that the Durban-based side will travel to London for their last four Challenge Cup clash with Clermont, and EPCR revealed that play-off will take place at Twickenham Stoop.

“It is a big stage against a quality French side, so that is something for us to build towards,” he said. “A lot can happen – we still got two games [in the United Rugby Championship] before that.

“The team is happy. This was always going to be a tough challenge playing Edinburgh again and I am just really proud of the coaches.

“They have been working hard and giving up a lot of their time and I’m happy with the leaders and the way we adjusted in the second half.”

The Sharks advanced to the semi-finals courtesy of a 36-30 triumph over Edinburgh on Saturday, while Clermont claimed a 53-14 win over Ulster in their quarter-final against Ulster.

Gloucester were the first team to reach the semi-finals when they clinched a 23-13 victory over the Ospreys on Friday and Benetton booked the final play-off berth on Sunday when they beat Connacht 39-24.

Sharks hold off Edinburgh to set up date with Clermont in Challenge Cup semi-finals

EPCR released a statement which confirmed the four semi-finalists for the Challenge Cup.

“The EPCR Challenge Cup semi-final matches have been set after a thrilling set of quarter-final games,” read the statement.

“Benetton Rugby reached a second semi-final in a row with victory over Connacht Rugby, whilst ASM Clermont Auvergne continued their search for a record fourth EPCR Challenge Cup title with a win over Ulster Rugby.

“Meanwhile Gloucester Rugby eased past Ospreys, while Hollywoodbets Sharks had to come from behind to get past Edinburgh Rugby as they seek to become the first South African club to win an EPCR competition.”