10 October 2026
10bet Lions centre Richard Kriel says the team is ready to front a star-studded Bulls line-up in the upcoming Jukskei derby. Despite the Pretoria franchise welcoming back their Springboks, Johannesburg's midfield general remains unfazed by the selection headaches brewing across the Jukskei River. The cross-border rivals collide with both sides aiming to anchor their dominance early in the United Rugby Championship season.
The Bulls pose a tactical puzzle with several heavyweights returning to the mix. The versatility of their roster leaves the Lions preparing for multiple defensive scenarios. “The Bulls have their Boks coming back, and we don’t know if it will be Harold Vorster, Stravino Jacobs or Handré Pollard who might play 12,” Kriel noted. “We don’t know who to prepare for, but that’s also the exciting part. We are looking forward to it regardless of who it is, but it’s going to be a huge challenge.”
This clash marks the first Jukskei derby without Kriel’s brother, David, lining up on the opposite side. While the sibling rivalry usually adds extra spice to the fixture, the midfielder refuses to let emotion disrupt his game plan. He views the match strictly through a professional lens. “For me, it’s still a rugby game,” said Kriel. “It’s the Bulls playing against the Lions; it’s still a massive game, regardless of whether my boet is there or not.”
The 26-year-old has locked down a bigger role at inside centre this season after bulking up to handle the heavy traffic in the midfield channel. The extra kilograms allow him to absorb big hits and crash through the gainline to anchor the Lions' attack. Rather than hunting for individual glory, he prides himself on creating space for the flyers on the outside. “I’m definitely enjoying 12,” the inside centre added. “For me, personally, setting up the tries for the wingers is the best.”
The Lions cross the Jukskei expecting a fierce physical battle at Loftus Versfeld. With Kriel marshalling the midfield, the visitors intend to disrupt the Bulls' rhythm and secure vital away points.