Bulls ring the changes as Springboks get sidelined
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Bulls have unveiled a reshuffled match-day squad for Sunday’s Round Two Champions Cup clash against Northampton Saints at Franklin’s Gardens, with several frontline stars making way for fresh combinations and rising talent.
Compared to last week’s line-up, the changes are sweeping. Handré Pollard, Willie le Roux, Canan Moodie, Marco van Staden, and David Kriel are all absent, replaced by a mix of youth and seasoned campaigners.
Zak Burger starts at scrumhalf in place of Paul de Wet, while on-loan Kade Wolhuter takes over the No.10 jersey from Pollard.
Devon Williams slots in at fullback, with Sergeal Petersen and Stravino Jacobs named on the wings. Stedman Gans returns at outside centre, partnering Harold Vorster.
Marcell Coetzee shifts from No.8 to blindside flank, with Elrigh Louw promoted to start as eigthman. Reinhardt Ludwig retains his spot at openside.
On the bench, only Embrose Papier retains a place among the replacements.
The changes reflect both rotation and the need to manage player workloads in a demanding European campaign. While the absence of marquee names adds intrigue, the inclusion of hungry youngsters and seasoned stalwarts ensures the Bulls remain competitive.
Sunday’s clash carries added significance as a win would keep the Bulls firmly in contention for play-off spot, while defeat could complicate their path in the tournament.
Bulls: 15 Devon Williams, 14 Sergeal Petersen, 13 Stedman Gans, 12 Harold Voster, 11 Stravino Jacobs, 10 Kade Wolhuter, 9 Kade Burger, 8 Elrigh Louw, 7 Reinhardt Ludwig, 6 Marcell Coetzee (captain), 5 JF van der Heerden, 4 Cobus Wiese, 3 Mornay Smith, 2 Akker van der Merwe, 1 Alu Tshakweni.
Replacements: 16 Juann Else, 17 Sti Sithole, 18 Khuta Mchunu, 19 Mpilo Gumede, 20 Nizaam Carr, 21 Embrose Papier, 22 Keagan Johannes, 23 PA van Niekerk.
Date: Sunday, December 14
Venue: Franklin’s Gardens, Northampton
Kick-off: 15.15 (17.15 SA time; 15.15 GMT)
Referee: Hollie Davidson (Scotland)
Assistant referees: Rob McDowell (Scotland), Dave Sutherland (Scotland)
TMO: Mike Adamson (Scotland)
