TALKING POINTS | Five Bulls players who could define the Jukskei derby

Saturday’s URC Jukskei derby at Loftus promises all the intensity fans expect as the Bulls host the Lions.

With several Springbok stars still unavailable, including Ruan Nortje, Wilco Louw, Marco van Staden, Canan Moodie and Kurt-Lee Arendse, head coach Johan Ackerman will rely on a mix of returning experience and in-form campaigners to maintain Loftus’ reputation as a fortress.

Here, are five players who could have the biggest impact on the derby.

Handré Pollard

Pollard’s comeback at flyhalf, after he was released by the Boks, immediately steadies the Bulls’ spine. His game management, accurate kicking, and calm demeanour under pressure will be crucial against a Lions side that thrives on quick tempo and broken play.

Pollard’s ability to control territory and convert opportunities into points could set the tone for the hosts from the first whistle.

Marcel Coetzee

With key Springboks unavailable, Coetzee’s experience and relentless work rate become even more vital.

he veteran flanker excels at slowing opposition ball, making powerful carries, and injecting intensity when the derby reaches its physical peak. His presence ensures the Bulls maintain structure and pressure throughout the match. 

Cobus Wiese

Wiese brings international experience and raw power to the Bulls pack.

His ball-carrying, defensive work, and breakdown presence make him a key figure in controlling the physical battles expeced to be key to deciding the match. In a derby where the forwards often set the platform for victory, Wiese’s dominance up front could prove decisive.

David Kriel

Kriel brings pace, creativity, and direct running to the Bulls’ midfield.

His ability to break the line and link play between the forwards and back three will be vital against a Lions team that has shown flair and unpredictability. Kriel’s defensive work and decision-making will also be crucial in shutting down the visitors’ attacking threats from the likes of Henco van Wyk.

Willie le Roux

Le Roux remains one of the most experienced and dangerous backs in South African rugby.

From fullback, he can change a game in an instant with his vision, tactical kicking, and counter-attacking prowess. Against a Lions side that kicks frequently and looks for territorial advantage, Le Roux’s presence ensures the Bulls have a constant threat in open space and a steady hand under high balls.

Meanwhile, The Bulls have also named a powerful squad boasting 18 Springboks for this year’s Investec Champions Cup, which kicks off next weekend with the visit of defending champions Bordeaux Begles to Loftus. 

Bulls squad for Champions Cup

Forwards: Alu Tshakweni, Gerhard Steenekamp, Jan Hendrik Wessels, Sti Sithole, Johan Grobbelaar, Akker van der Merwe, Juann Else, Wilco Louw, Francois Klopper, Mornay Smith, Khuta Mchunu, Jaco Grobbelaar, Cobus Wiese, Ruan Nortje, Reinhardt Ludwig, JF van Heerden, Marco van Staden, Marcell Coetzee, Nama Xaba, Nizaam Carr, Elrigh Louw, Cameron Hanekom, Mpilo Gumede, JJ Theron, Jeandré Rudolph.
Backs: Embrose Papier, Paul de Wet, Zak Burger; Handré Pollard, Keagan Johannes, Kade Wolhuter; Stravino Jacobs, Kurt-Lee Arendse; Harold Vorster, Jan Serfontein; David Kriel, Stedman Gans; Sebastian de Klerk, Canan Moodie, Cheswill Jooste; Willie le Roux, Devon Williams.