Edinburgh vs Sharks Preview: Odds, Tips and Prediction

Venue: DAM Health Stadium Kickoff Time: 19:35 (UK Time) SportsBoom previews the upcoming United Rugby Championship game between Edinburgh and the Sharks. The Sharks were beaten 7-10 by Leinster in Durban last time out – but their playoff qualification isn’t in jeopardy. The hosts ripped through the Dragons last time out in front of their home crowd, winning 38-5 and moving into 8th place on the log. For fans looking for a little more intrigue, check out the best rugby betting sites ahead of this clash.

Ryan Liberty

Sports Writer

Last Updated: 2025-04-03

Fact checked by:

Chad Nagel

Content Manager

5 minutes read

Duhan Van Der Merwe of Scotland//Getty Images

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Pre-Game Odds and Win Probability

Online betting seems to indicate that the Durban-based side will go into this encounter as favourites.

Edinburgh: 5/4 (2.25) – 44.4%
Sharks: 4/7 (1.57) – 63.7%
Odds courtesy of Hollywoodbets, subject to change

Head-To-Head Record

Last three meetings

13/04/2024: Sharks 36–30 Edinburgh
30/03/2024: Sharks 23-13 Edinburgh
28/01/2023: Edinburgh 19–22 Sharks

Edinburgh Current Form – WLWLL

Edinburgh have given themselves a real playoff boost after beating Dragons last time out. There are now only four rounds left and so every point is essential for these teams ahead of the business end of the competition.

They have shown strong home form in recent weeks and will be confident of another powerful showing against this Sharks side. Edinburgh coach Sean Everitt will no doubt be up for this game, and while he might show respect for the Sharks of course – he will want to win this game a little more than usual.

Key Players to Watch

Duhan van der Merwe: A record holding try-scorer for Scotland, Duhan van der Merwe is a dangerous player and is capable of hurting any opponent from almost anywhere on the field. he is a dynamic attacking player, one who holds incredible defensive ability and an uncompromising physical game. Keep an eye on him here.
Pierre Schoeman: Recently returning from concussion, his experience and powerful approach to rugby will be welcomed graciously back into this Edinburgh side. He certainly carries a presence, and when facing the forward pack of the Sharks, he will be a massive plus for the hosts.
Hamish Watson: Another player to return from injury and bolster the attacking ability of the home team. A Scottish international known for his tenacity and handling ability, Watson’s availability will no doubt significantly boost the confidence of his side.

Sharks Current Form – LWWLW

The Sharks faced what was arguably their biggest challenge last time out. The quality and ability evident at Leinster are incredible and given that they were bruised and hellbent on leaving South Africa’s coast avenging their loss in Pretoria, the men from Durban were always going to be up against it.

Although the decision to kick for the corner at the death was taken over having a shot at goal for the draw and divided public opinion – one thing is for certain, we cannot dispute the confidence and fearlessness which underpins the growing success of the Durban franchise.

Key Players to Watch

Bongi Mbonambi: Mbonambi is a versatile front rower who shows his strength and ability week in and week out. Scoring the only try for the Sharks against Leinster last week, his experience and leadership are aspects which only add to their value as they edge closer to the end of the regular season.
Jordan Hendrikse: Another player who has incredible versatility and composure in really tense situations, Hendrikse has shown he can manage a game and execute for the Sharks through the midfield. His playing style keeps the Sharks competitive and playing at a really good tempo.
Siya Kolisi: As captain, Siya continues to lead by example. He is nothing if not resilient and together with his collaborative leadership style, he adds to the cause for the Sharks. Kolisi’s defensive efforts aren’t always spoken about, but just looking at his last few appearances, they are a massive contributing factor to the success of this Sharks side.

Suggested Bets

Our suggested bets for those who wants to bet on rugby are listed below.

Edinburgh (Win): The hosts arguably want this result more than their South African visitors. They have shown a propensity to be incredibly competitive at home, their familiarity with local conditions and their consistent performances suggest they win this one.
Under 45.5 Points: These two teams have both shown that they have robust defensive systems and structures. Their involvements have yielded modest scoring games and we think taking advantage of another low-scoring game will prove profitable. 10/11 (1.91) with Hollywoodbets.

Value Bets

For those punters looking for a bit more risk, have a look at our value picks!

First Try Scorer (Duhan van der Merwe): He is a prolific finisher, and given that he is playing at home, back him to find the try zone first come Saturday evening. 9/2 (5.50) with Betway
Winning Margin (Edinburgh by 6-10 Points): We are expecting a closely fought affair to play out here. Edinburgh won’t run away with it, but we are backing them to claim victory over the South African side. 5/1 (6.00) with Supabets

Prediction: Edinburgh to Win

The odds available on the home side do not likely reflect their home form, nor does it reflect their current consistent performances. Yes, they play a strong Durban side who is littered with quality all over the pitch, but for us, the hosts win it.

If you're looking to back them with the best value, check out betting sites with welcome bonus to make the most of your wager.

Ryan LibertySports Writer

A quirky writer with an engaging tone, Ryan Liberty has seen his work published on many of South Africa’s sport’s publications. Ryan has a great passion for everything in the sporting world, from darts to football, motorsport and everything in between. His conversational flair allows him to bring diverse sporting topics to both the avid sports fan as well as the relaxed reader.

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