Meshack Khotha

Meshack Khotha

Sharks, the South African hopefuls, extended their unbeaten run to seven at the weekend after beating Highlanders 19-17 in a Super 14 match in New Zealand.

It was Sharks' first victory on their tour after a 13-all draw against the Hurricanes in their opening game a fortnight ago.

Coach Dick Muir's charges are second on the log with 31 points, from eight games, having won seven and drawn one. They trail the log leading Crusaders by seven points after the New Zealanders crushed the Lions 31-6 on Saturday.

The Stormers are also in the running for the semis after beating home boys Cheetahs 34-22 in an exciting match in Cape Town.

Stormers are seventh on the log with 23 points. But with a game in hand, and their travels over, they have got a good chance of overtaking the fourth-placed Blues (25) and fifth-placed Western Force (26), who have both played nine matches.

The Capetonians face the Hurricanes at home on Saturday and the visitors will be motivated after trouncing tailenders the Bulls 50-22 at Loftus last Saturday.