collision with the Cheetahs this weekend has just been boosted with the possible return of Bismark du Plessis.
The Springbok hooker who went under the knife for a neck injury is already participating in contact sessions with the Sharks and his return looks imminent.
Bok hooker Du Plessis had a strong Super 14 season before suffering the neck injury that forced him out of the mid-year internationals and the away leg of the Tri-Nations.
The tough 26-year-old was pulled out of the Sharks' encounter against the Bulls on May 1, after suffering some discomfort at training, and the 30-Test veteran then underwent surgery to remove a growth on his neck vertebrae.
It was accepted that he would have been sidelined for about three months, with a scheduled return towards the end of August. However, Du Plessis's work ethic and good health seem to have aided his fast recuperation.
The unanticipated return of Du Plessis - even if he does not feature in Bloemfontein - comes as a helpful boost for a Sharks team eager to beat a much-improved Cheetahs team.
In recent weeks the Sharks have welcomed back other stars like Bok JP Pietersen and former Lions stars Louis Ludik (wing/fullback) and Willem Alberts (No.8).
This week Springboks Ryan Kankowski (No.8), Tendai Mtawarira (prop) and scrumhalf Ruan Pienaar were also released from the Tri-Nations squad for domestic duty.
Bringing back the Springbok players means someone of the stars of the last two week might have to drop out.
"Within our squad system, we believe we have the players," said Bashford.
"Whether the Boks play off the bench or start, it will strengthen us either way. It's just how they are integrated."
