Highlanders talisman Ben Smith is fit and raring to go.
Smith (28) missed last week's game against the Crusaders because of a leg infection which left him laid up in a Sydney hospital for three nights.
He made his way to Christchurch for the match but did not play - his only job was running the water out for the team during the game.
He jumped on the plane to Africa on Sunday and said yesterday from Durban he was fit and well and looking forward to the match.
He would very much rather be playing than be a spectator.
''It was frustrating at the time, having to watch the team play. I have had to get through training this week and have managed to do that and I'm pretty excited about the challenge ahead,'' Smith said.
''The biggest threat from the Sharks is going to be their physicality, the way they use their big forwards to play the game. We are going to have to shut them down from being able to do that.''
Smith said the backline needed to back up the good work done by the forward pack in what is bound to be a tough battle.
The Sharks kick more than any other team in the competition, and will likely keep to script on their home track, so Smith is expecting plenty of balls coming his way.
''As a back three they [Sharks] are going to be looking to kick it our way. They have done that all season so we are expecting that. We will be have to be on our game but it also allows us opportunities to attack.''
Smith has been a standout for the Highlanders all season, especially with his attacking game and ability to read when to attack and when to go for the safer option.
Last week's absence was the first time Smith had not fronted for the Highlanders since April 2012, breaking a run of 39 straight games for the franchise.
His game tomorrow will be his 88th for the Highlanders. He has missed just three games since he made his debut in 2009.