Vodacom Bulls head coach Johan Ackermann yesterday made sweeping changes to his matchday squad ahead of Friday night’s Vodacom United Rugby Championship clash against Connacht, citing a mix of injury setbacks, strategic rotation, and the physical toll of a demanding travel schedule.
In an impromptu media briefing, Ackermann confirmed 11 changes to the starting XV that lost to Ulster last weekend, a result that left the Bulls frustrated after a promising first half unravelled in the second.
The most notable absentee, perhaps, is flanker Marco van Staden, who sustained a knee injury and has returned to South Africa for recovery. “Marco picked up a bad knock and wasn’t ready for Friday,” said Ackermann. “But the plan was always for him to return home after the weekend.”
His absence opens the door for Nama Xaba and JJ Theron, with the latter offering a valuable lineout option. In the front row, Alulutho Tshakweni replaces Gerard Steenekamp, a move influenced by the artificial 4G pitch in Galway. “It’s about managing bodies. Alu has trained well and deserves the opportunity,” Ackermann explained.
Significantly, Jan Serfontein passed a fitness test and resumes his midfield partnership with David Kriel.
Reflecting on the defeat to Ulster, Ackermann was candid about the team’s shortcomings. “It was a frustrating review. We saw the opportunities we missed in the first half, but in the second half, we made self-inflicted errors that gave Ulster scoring chances,” he said.
Ackermann lamented the team’s inability to manage momentum swings and avoid compounding mistakes. “You’re never going to have 80 minutes of momentum. But when it turns, you can’t make back-to-back errors and then concede a yellow card. That’s what cost us.”
The visitors conceded three tries while down to 14 men, a lapse that proved decisive. “We must be smarter in those moments and avoid giving the referee reasons to get involved,” he added.
Ackermann acknowledged that the team is still adapting to his coaching philosophy, which emphasises individual expression within a structured system. “We’re not there yet. It’s not going to happen overnight,” he said. “Changing habits takes time, especially without a proper pre-season together.”
He urged patience as players adjust to new combinations and expectations. “Each player has a strength, whether it’s offloading, beating defenders, or reading space. I want them to express that, but also understand the system.”
The coach likened the transition to building trust in any relationship. “It takes time between coaches and players. You can’t force it, or you risk confusing them.”
With regular captain Ruan Nortjé unavailable, Reinhardt Ludwig has been handed the captaincy for the Connacht fixture, supported by David Kriel. Ackermann praised Ludwig’s leadership qualities despite his youth. “He’s respected, trains hard, and is close to the referee, which helps with in-game communication.”
Johan Grobbelaar, named on the bench, may resume the captaincy if he enters the field while Ludwig is still playing. “We’re fortunate to have strong leaders across the squad,” said Ackermann.
The Vodacom Bulls face a short turnaround between matches, and also endured a 4.5-hour bus journey with limited access to 4G training surfaces, which complicates preparation.
“We trained on a heavier grass field, which isn’t ideal,” said Ackermann. “The 4G pitch is tough on the body, so we’ve rotated to keep players fresh and give others a chance.”
The coach emphasised the importance of squad depth and morale. “Everyone trains hard. Some guys haven’t had a chance yet, but they’re pushing every day. We want them to know they’re trusted.”
Ackermann confirmed that Marcel Coetzee is set to rejoin the squad later in the week after recovering from a head knock, while Van Staden is expected to be available for selection next week.
As the Bulls prepare to face a physical Connacht side on unfamiliar turf, Ackermann remains focused on long-term growth as much as short-term results. “We’re building something. It’s not perfect yet, but we’re moving in the right direction.”
The Bulls will be hoping that direction includes a return to winning ways on Friday night.