Vodacom Bulls' captain Ruan Nortje said during a media opportunity that the semi-final against the Hollywoodbets Sharks is a South African derby, which adds more fuel and tension.
"It’s definitely going to be a massive set-piece battle. We can only prepare as well as we can and make sure we’re ready when Saturday comes. We just have to be composed and make swift changes on the field; be ready for anything, and expect anything."
"They’ve got a very good set piece, and a massive pack of quality international players that we all know."
"They’ve got a very good 9-10 pairing, Andre at 12 is a great ball carrier. They’re very good on the contestable kicking game, and the breakdown, I think that’s the three places where the game is going to be determined, without a doubt."
"It is just a South African derby, it adds a bit more fuel, tension, and excitement. We must ensure we get our game plan ready and that we’re mentally ready."
"The Sharks have proven themselves in the last few games. They’ll come with a lot of confidence that they’ve earned. It’s all about mentally being switched on from minute one."
"Whenever we get into playoffs, we always try to get ourselves in the headspace of Test match-level preparation. Last week we had the same mentality, and this week again, it’s the same."
"This weekend is going to be very important for us to make sure we don’t get any of those 20- or 10-minute lapses in the game. It’s all going to be mental."
Nortje said moving to flank is still new to him, and he is still growing into the position.
"It is something very new to me. It started when we picked up those injuries on the Wednesday before the Glasgow game."
"There were absolutely no more flankers left; Cameron [Hanekom] was also out. So, at the last minute, we just decided that I would play flank."
"Luckily, it went well that day, and I got a few more opportunities,” he reflects, adding: “I enjoy being a bit more loose. And I try to be better in that position with every game."
"I must say, I’m really enjoying it. It’s exciting for me to learn a different position. I’ve been playing five lock for as long as I’ve played for the Bulls."
"Sometimes it feels strange to stand there and do nothing, but it is important to keep that width and keep the defence honest, and make sure the backline has options everywhere."
"I’m still learning more about being on the side of the scrum."
"I need to make sure I give the right amount of pressure and especially on defence off the scrums, to make sure I make the right release to get out of the scrum as quickly as possible and not be late."
"It’s always exciting to expand and grow your game."
