Bulls name touring squad to face Zebre and Munster
The group features a potent blend of experience, high-profile off-season arrivals and emerging local talent.
The Bulls have unveiled a formidable 26-man touring squad for their upcoming United Rugby Championship fixtures. The team will take on Zebre Parma in Italy on Saturday, followed by Munster in Ireland the subsequent weekend. The Bulls have a strong record against Zebre, having won all five previous encounters, including a convincing 54-19 victory last season.
However, head coach Johan Ackermann acknowledges the added challenge of playing against a host side in front of a passionate crowd. The following weekend's match against Munster, the reigning champions, will serve as a crucial test for the Bulls, who aim to make an early impact after a seven-match losing streak last season. The touring squad boasts a blend of experienced players, high-profile signings, and emerging local talent.
The backline features Willie le Roux, Thaakir Abrahams, and Cheswill Jooste at fullback, while Curwin Bosch and Viaan Mentoor provide depth at flyhalf. In the midfield, Stravino Jacobs, Harold Vorster, Stedman Gans, and Demetri Erasmus form a versatile core, supported by a strong scrum-half quartet of Paul de Wet, Zak Burger, and Keagan Johannes.
The forwards include Marcell Coetzee, Nizaam Carr, JJ Theron, and Jeandre Rudolph, while the pack features Alu Tshakweni, Sti Sithole, Dylan Smith, Francois Klopper, Mornay Smith, and Khuta Mchunu, along with Jon Hobson and Janco Uys as hookers. With 15 Springboks already in the squad and bolstered by experienced international call-ups, the Bulls have ample depth to navigate the challenging schedule ahead.
The coaching staff emphasizes competitive internal selection, ensuring every player must be at their best to secure a starting spot.
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