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The Sharks are a South African Rugby Union team competing in the Super 14 competition (Super 12 from 1996-2005, Super 10 from 1993-1995). They are based in Durban and centred around the Natal Sharks union, also based in Durban and drawing players from all of KwaZulu-Natal Province . Through 2005 , they drew players from the two unions based in Eastern Cape Province , the Mighty Elephants ( Port Elizabeth ) and the Bulldogs ( East London ), but those unions became the core of the new Southern Spears franchise that was formed in 2006 and was originally intended to enter the Super 14 in 2007 . However, the Spears have since been denied entry into the Super 14. In 1996 and 1997 South Africa was represented in the Super 12 by their four top unions rather than franchises, and Natal qualified and competed both years. They have never won the Super 12 competition, but have reached the final twice, as Natal in 1996 and as the Sharks in 2001. After being called the Banana Boys for a century, it was time for a change. The Sharks branding was the brain child of Terry Kukle, the owner of Tag International. After assessing international marketing trends, Kukle presented this strategy to the council of the Natal Rugby Union. After many meetings a decision was finally made to go ahead with the new branding. The local press at first were very hesitant to accept the new name and branding, but after a very successful season and great products and promotions the Sharks were embraced by all. The current team captain is utility forward AJ Venter . |