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Bok experience returns as Ackermann reshuffles Bulls side

By @rugby365com
Friday 19 Dec 2025

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Bulls coach Johan Ackermann has made 11 changes to the starting line-up for their United Rugby Championship clash with the Sharks in Durban on Saturday.

The team has been boosted by experienced players like Handre Pollard and Willie le Roux, while Jan-Hendrik Wessels will make a return to the pitch from the bench after sitting out his nine-week suspension.

Le Roux slots in at fullback, Pollard returns at flyhalf, and Embrose Papier takes over at scrumhalf.

David Kriel and Sebastian de Klerk are recalled to the midfield and wing, respectively, adding experience and strike power alongside Harold Vorster and Stravino Jacobs.

Up front, Gerhard Steenekamp, Johan Grobbelaar, and Wilco Louw form a heavyweight front row, while Jeandre Rudolph comes in at blindside flank. Elrigh Louw captains the side from No.8, with JJ Theron completing the loose trio.

The replacements have also been reinforced, with Akker van der Merwe, Jan-Hendrik Wessels, Reinhardt Ludwig, and Devon Williams joining Nizaam Carr, Paul de Wet, and Stedman Gans.

In total, 11 changes have been made to the starting XV, reflecting a deliberate shift from rotation to full-strength selection.

The Bulls will be looking to impose themselves physically and clinically in Durban, with Pollard and Le Roux’s leadership expected to steady
the ship.

Bulls: 15 Willie le Roux, 14 Sebastian de Klerk, 13 David Kriel, 12 Harold Vorster, 11 Stravino Jacobs, 10 Handre Pollard, 9 Embrose Papier, 8 JJ Theron, 7 Elrigh Louw (Captain), 6 Jeandre Rudolph, 5 JF van Heerden, 4 Cobus Wiese, 3 Wilco Louw, 2 Johan Grobbelaar, 1 Gerhard Steenekamp
Replacements: 16 Akker van der Merwe, 17 Jan-Hendrik Wessels, 18 Khuta Mchunu, 19 Reinhardt Ludwig, 20 Nizaam Carr, 21 Paul de Wet, 22 Stedman Gans, 23 Devon Williams

Date: Saturday, December 20
Venue: Kings Park, Durban
Kick-off: 18.00; 16.00 GMT
Referee: Griffin Colby (South Africa)
Assistant referees: Aimee Barrett-Theron (South Africa) & AJ Jacobs (South Africa)
TMO: Marius Jonker (South Africa)

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