Simelane reveals his preferred Bulls position
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Wandisile Simelane has been a revelation at fullback in recent matches for the Bulls, but the exciting back says he still prefers outside centre.
Simelane was speaking in the build-up to the big South African derby with the Stormers in the United Rugby Championship in Cape Town on Friday.
Both teams are on 34 points on the table this season, with the Bulls sitting ahead of the Stormers in second place due to a superior win ratio, although the Capetonians have a game in hand.
Since joining the Bulls, Simelane has featured in various positions among the outside backs and it is clear that he is turning into a very versatile utility back.
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“While I enjoy playing fullback at the moment, my number one position is still outside centre,” Simelane told reporters.
“As a 13 it helps me to understand the needs of the outside players when I run out at fullback or wing.
“Obviously I will always be available wherever the team needs me. I have played fullback at various levels but for the first time, the entire world can see me play fullback.
“The coach has a vision for me and we are constantly talking about it.”
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Simelane could be one of the backs that will line up against the Stormers this Friday at Cape Town Stadium.
The former Lions star knows all too well he will have his hands full at fullback as he revealed the Stormers are good at counterattacks and have a similar style to the Bulls.
“Any South African derby is difficult,” Simelane said.
“We know the Stormers play an exciting brand of rugby and we have put our plans in place on how we are going to play.
“We always analyse each other well and we expect them to rush up on the faster players, giving them less space.
“You always test yourself in a game like this. Without sharing too much, we are excited and hoping for a positive result. I assume it will be a tight and momentum game.
“For us, it doesn’t really matter in which competition we play. We have a squad system and we always have the same approach. It is business as usual for us.”
