The Bulls and Lions are gearing up for their rescheduled Round Nine clash of the United Rugby Championship at Loftus Versfeld this Saturday, February 22. With both teams making changes to their line-ups, the match promises to be another thrilling spectacle for rugby fans.
Bulls Director of Rugby Jake White has announced several key changes aimed at securing victory against their rivals. Gerhard Steenekamp, a Springbok forward, steps up to bolster the front row alongside fellow players Johan Grobbelaar and Wilco Louw. After recovering from injury, Cobus Wiese also returns to the starting line-up, providing experience alongside JF van Heerden at lock. The back row will see Marco van Staden teaming up with captain Reinhardt Ludwig and the dynamic Celimpilo Gumede at No.8.
Notably absent is Springbok No.8 Cameron Hanekom, who has been sidelined due to injury sustained during the match against the Stormers earlier this month. Instead, the backline will see Embrose Papier and Willie le Roux reuniting at halfback, providing both speed and strategy. World Cup-winning wing Canan Moodie also shifts to the left wing, with Sebastian de Klerk taking over the opposite side. The pairing of David Kriel and Stedman Gans will make up the central positions, promising agility and tactical moves.
White has opted for a five-three split bench, including returning players Jan-Hendrik Wessels and Ruan Vermaak, along with newcomers Alulutho Tshakweni and Keagan Johannes, offering fresh legs later during the match. The importance of the game is high, as both teams aim for positioning within the league as they seek to capitalize on any opportunities for playoff contention.
Meanwhile, Lions Head Coach Ivan van Rooyen has made one key alteration, seeking to maintain the momentum from their recent victory over the Stormers. Jarod Cairns is set to join the back row alongside captain Francke Horn and Springbok Ruan Venter, strengthening their defensive lineup. The front row will feature Morgan Naude and Conrad van Vuuren, with Siba Qoma making his return.
The Lions have communicated updates on player injuries; several key players, including Bronson Mills and Rabz Maxwane, will miss out on this clash. Their absence, coupled with the team's winning strategy, will test the depth of their squad and could lead to opportunities for the Bulls.
This exciting derby is dubbed the "Jukskei derby," and it holds significant rivalry status among fans and players alike, setting the stage for intense competitive spirit. Both teams have experienced shifts recently, and the outcome could be pivotal for their psychological edge going forward.
Kick-off for Saturday’s match is scheduled for 14:00 local time (12:00 GMT), with referee Aimee Barrett-Theron officiated, supported by assistant referees Morne Ferreira and Sean Muller.
The clash will not simply be about league points, but also about pride and establishing dominance, particularly for the Bulls, who seek to overcome previous defeats. With top players on both sides, fans are eagerly anticipating how this narrative will play out.
Can the Bulls capitalize on home advantage, or will the Lions continue their winning streak? Only time will tell as these two teams head to battle on the field, where tactics, skill, and sheer determination will be put to the test.