Squad depth will be key as Sheffield Sharks look to continue upsetting the play-off form book

Dirk Williams has been influential for Sheffield Sharks in the current play-off run (Picture: Dean Atkins)

Sheffield Sharks captain Mike Tuck has challenged every member of his team to contribute points as they look to continue their bid for play-off glory in a two-legged semi-final with London City Royals over the next three nights.

Sharks host the Royals at the English Institute of Sport tonight (7.30pm) before the return leg in the capital on Saturday night.

Atiba Lyons’ side are underdogs if the BBL Championship standings are anything to go by – they finished sixth to the Royals’ fourth – just as they were last weekend when they knocked out Newcastle Eagles over two legs.

“Chris Alexander and Dirk Williams played really well for us and they spurred everybody on,” said Tuck of the second-leg win in Newcastle. “We had four guys in double figures and ultimately that’s what got us through, guys stepping up. That’s what we’re going to have to do against London.”

The Royals are in their first season of BBL competition, while Sheffield are established veterans. They have never missed the play-offs and last won the competition three years ago. If they are to book a return to the O2 on Sunday, May 19, for the final, they will need all of that experience.

Tuck added: “London are a very deep team, they’re very athletic, they’re powerful, but we were the first team to beat them at their place and we’re very well drilled at the minute.”