Bulls hope new faces can repeat 2025 thrashing of Stade Français

The Bulls are banking on a blend of new and familiar players to fill the leadership void as they prepare to face Stade Français in Saturday's Champions Cup pool stage match at Loftus. Elrigh Louw will lead the team in captaincy duties, filling the role left vacant by Marcell Coetzee's injury, while Hanro Liebenberg remains on the sidelines.

Key changes to the squad include Handré Pollard assuming the No 10 jersey from Curwin Bosch and the debut of 20-year-old star Luan Giliomee, replacing long-serving Willie le Roux. Coach Johan Ackermann made strategic changes to the starting lineup following the Bulls' nine-try victory over the Lions in the United Rugby Championship, including a new front row.

However, four Springboks are set to make an impact from the bench, including Johan Grobbelaar and Gerhard Steenekamp. The Bulls aim to replicate their seven-try thrashing of Stade Français from two seasons ago, as they seek to establish Loftus as their fortress after last season's two home Champions Cup matches ended in defeat. The team has been performing well, defeating Zebre 47-13 at home and narrowly losing to Munster in Ireland before dominating the Lions 57-15.

Louw emphasized the importance of discipline in the upcoming game, noting that the French side poses a formidable challenge when they enter their own half. The Bulls recall their 48-7 win against Stade Français in a Champions Cup pool match at the same venue last year, but the French team also earned a 30-22 victory over Montpellier in their previous encounter.

With three wins out of six games, Stade Français finds themselves in a tough mid-table battle in the Top 14 following their semi-final appearance last year. For 20-year-old utility back Luan Giliomee, this opportunity against Stade Français represents a significant step in his development, as he continues to grow under the guidance of the Bulls and coach Johan Ackermann, who advised him to remain grounded, humble, and true to himself.