The Vodacom Bulls have named a formidable squad for their upcoming overseas fixtures, marking the final leg of their international campaign for the year. With both their Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) clash and the prestigious Investec Champions Cup looming, the Bulls are gearing up for a crucial fortnight that could shape the rest of their season. The squad includes almost all of their Springbok players, underlining their intent to compete at the highest level in both competitions.
The first challenge will be Connacht in Galway on Saturday, a fixture of particular significance as the Bulls have never won a match in Galway since their entry into the URC. This game is vital not only to maintain their strong position in the URC but also as preparation for their next challenge—the star-studded Saracens in the Champions Cup. The Bulls are currently third on the URC standings, having won four out of their first five games, and a win in Galway could be crucial in their bid to climb even higher.
While the Bulls have assembled a powerful squad for the tour, they will be without key players, including lock Ruan Nortje and utility forward Reinhardt Ludwig due to injury. However, Deon Slabbert from the Pumas has been brought in as cover. Despite these absences, the Bulls can call upon a wealth of talent, including their formidable Springbok front row—Gerhard Steenekamp, Johan Grobbelaar, and Wilco Louw—along with the newly capped Cameron Hanekom, and regular Bok stalwarts Elrigh Louw and Marco van Staden.
In the backline, the Bulls will rely on the experience of Willie le Roux, who is nearing his 100th cap for the Springboks, and Canan Moodie, the only other current Bok in the backline. The return of Johan Goosen from injury is another major boost for the squad. Although Kurt-Lee Arendse, who has moved to Japan, will be missed, the Bulls have more than enough depth to cover his absence.
Coach Jake White has a strong selection pool to choose from, and the only question remains whether he will field his best team against Connacht or reserve his strongest lineup for the Champions Cup clash against Saracens. With the players having already endured a long overseas stint followed by a national team tour, managing player fatigue will be key as the Bulls look to finish their year on a high. The squad’s mix of experience and youth gives them a well-rounded advantage, making them one of the teams to watch over the next couple of weeks.
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