The Vodacom Bulls have confirmed their matchday squad for the highly anticipated New Year’s derby against the DHL Stormers in Cape Town on Saturday.
Head coach Johan Ackermann has made several adjustments from the side that faced the Sharks two weeks ago, with a mix of tactical changes and fresh energy injected into the lineup.
Ruan Nortje returns to lead the side, taking over the armband from Elrigh Louw, who captained against the Sharks. In the back row, Marco van Staden comes into the starting XV, while Jeandre Rudolph shifts to accommodate the reshuffle.
Among the backs, Canan Moodie slots in at centre, with Harold Vorster dropping out. And Embrose Papier moves to the bench, with ex-Stormers player Paul de Wet starting at scrumhalf.
The Vodacom Bulls retain a strong spine with Handré Pollard at flyhalf, Willie le Roux at fullback, and David Kriel in midfield. The front row of Gerhard Steenekamp, Johan Grobbelaar, and Wilco Louw remains unchanged, providing stability up front.
Ackermann’s selections underline a balance between consistency and tactical tweaks, with Nortje’s leadership and Moodie’s pace expected to add fresh impetus against a Stormers side renowned for their physicality.
Ackermann emphasised the importance of clarity and energy heading into the derby: “We’ve assessed the Sharks game and made adjustments where needed. Ruan’s leadership is vital, and bringing in players like Canan Moodie and Marco van Staden gives us the right balance for this contest. It’s about alignment and intensity as we start the year.”
Vodacom Bulls
1. Gerhard Steenekamp
2. Johan Grobbelaar
3. Wilco Louw
4. Cobus Wiese
5. Ruan Nortje (Captain)
6. Marco van Staden
7. Elrigh Louw
8. Jeandre Rudolph
9. Paul de Wet
10. Handre Pollard
11. Stravino Jacobs
12. David Kriel
13. Canan Moodie
14. Sebastian de Klerk
15. Willie le Roux
Replacements
16. Akker van der Merwe
17. Jan-Hendrik Wessels
18. Khuta Mchunu
19. Ruan Vermaak
20. Reinhardt Ludwig
21. Nazeem Carr
22. Embrose Papier
23. Devon Williams