The Sharks have been circling in the summer months after enduring an annus horribilis. Few predicted their slump last season.
Expected to be title contenders having become play-off regulars, a team renowned for their forward ferocity and diehard defence crumbled into easy beats.

They conceded 150 points and 23 tries in their two matches against Saracens, who did not have their best campaign, and were hit for 77 by Toulouse.
Director of rugby Alex Sanderson reacted to the crash by hiring experience.
Former England captain Courtney Lawes is the leading recruit.
He was signed for his attitude as...