Exciting Vodacom Bulls team to face Cell C Sharks

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Tighthead prop, Robert Hunt, will earn his first starting berth for the Vodacom Bulls when they take on a strong Cell C Sharks team in a Vodacom United Rugby Championship clash at Jonsson Kings Park on Friday night.

Vodacom Bulls director of rugby, Jake White, announced an exciting 23-man squad that will face a Cell C Sharks team that is loaded with international players in the South African derby, which will be a repeat of the previous two editions of the domestic Carling Currie Cup final.

Hunt, who made his debut and played off the bench on the Vodacom Bulls’ four-week tour of Europe in the opening rounds of the Vodacom URC, will buckle down alongside Gerhard Steenekamp at loosehead prop, with the experienced Bismarck du Plessis starting at hooker.

A few positional switches in the backline will make for an exciting battle against what could potentially be an almost all-Springbok backline for the home side.

Kurt-Lee Arendse will start in the No15 jersey while David Kriel will get an opportunity at outside centre, alongside Cornal Hendricks.

Richard Kriel will earn his Vodacom URC debut when he lines up on the left wing.

The Vodacom Bulls expect a tough encounter in Durban against a dangerous Cell C Sharks outfit.

“This is such a big week. It’s not only a local derby, but the game that we have played in the Carling Currie Cup final twice now,” White said.

“They’ve got all these international players, that says a lot for their squad. At home with that kind of team, there is a little bit of a buzz now. It’s like a test match for us, and we are looking forward to it.

“We are looking forward to seeing where we are. We will see Marcell Coetzee getting a crack to play against Siya (Kolisi), you get Bismarck du Plessis and Grobbies (Johan Grobbelaar) playing against Bongi (Mbonambi), and that list goes on.”

The match will kick off at 19h00 and it will be televised on SuperSport.

 

The Vodacom Bulls to take on the Cell C Sharks is (15-9; 1-8):

Starting XV: Kurt-Lee Arendse, Madosh Tambwe, David Kriel, Cornal Hendricks, Richard Kriel, Morné Steyn, Embrose Papier; Gerhard Steenekamp, Bismarck du Plessis, Robert Hunt, Walt Steenkamp, Ruan Nortje, Marcell Coetzee (CAPT), Arno Botha, Elrigh Louw.

Replacements: Johan Grobbelaar, Simphiwe Matanzima, Lizo Gqoboka, Jacques du Plessis, Sintu Manjezi, Zak Burger, Chris Smith, Harold Vorster.

Grobbelaar hungry for game time ahead of Vodacom Bulls v Sharks clash

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After spending some time with the Springboks, Johan Grobbelaar is itching to get onto the field and continue where he left off at the Vodacom Bulls. The Tshwane-based side continues their Vodacom United Rugby Championship campaign when they take on the Cell C Sharks in a South African derby at Jonsson Kings Park on Friday night.

Grobbelaar is yet to get a taste of the Vodacom URC after last turning out for the Vodacom Bulls in the successful Carling Currie Cup campaign before he received a call up to join the Springbok squad for the Rugby Championship in Australia.

“It was a great opportunity to be part of the Springboks setup. I was very surprised and excited to get the call up. It was great to see how the system works. But now I’m just looking forward to playing for the Vodacom Bulls and getting some game time,” the 23-year-old hooker said.

Grobbelaar will be vying for a spot in the Vodacom Bulls team that will face the Cell C Sharks on Friday night. He acknowledges the healthy competition within the squad and is aware that he needs to earn his place among equally talented hookers which include Bismarck du Plessis, Schalk Erasmus, Sidney Tobias, and Jan-Hendrik Wessels.

Once the explosive hooker has bagged a few Vodacom URC caps, he will hope that he continues to impress with his performances and ultimately make a return to the national setup and in the process earn some test experience.

“The next step comes with time. For now, one just needs to do what they need to do every week – play good rugby,” said the level-headed Grobbelaar.

“There are a lot of good hookers at the moment. My focus now is to continue playing and doing well for the Vodacom Bulls, then any other opportunity can follow. Just to get some game time and be on the field is very important for now. If I can play consistently week in, week out my chance will come.”

The Vodacom Bulls match against the Cell C Sharks will kick off at 19h00 on Friday.

Excitement peaks ahead of Vodacom Bulls and Munster clash tomorrow

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The excitement of playing in front of a home crowd at Loftus Versfeld when the Vodacom Bulls take on Munster Rugby in a Vodacom United Rugby Championship has reached a peak as the clash approaches.

After beginning their Vodacom URC campaign with four matches on tour in Ireland, Wales, and Scotland, the Vodacom Bulls are eager to face their European opponents in their own backyard, and a tough Munster Rugby side will be the first to visit Fortress Loftus tomorrow.

A thrilling encounter is expected, and Vodacom Bulls No8, Elrigh Louw, has been keeping a close eye on the visiting Irish side that has claimed four wins out of five games so far in their campaign.

“I rate them quite highly. They are a top-class side, and with a coaching staff like they have, you can never underestimate them,” is Louw’s assessment.

“I think they will bring a good kicking game, and a very good game on the ground, in the rucks. But we also have our own plans, and we are not focusing on them more than we are focusing on our own game.”

Talk ahead of the clash has suggested that the Vodacom Bulls will have a point to prove and attempt to stamp their authority as one of the front-runners among the South African contingent in the Vodacom URC. This follows their dominance in recent domestic competitions.

However, the 22-year-old Louw has downplayed suggestions that the Tshwane-based side has anything to prove.

“We wouldn’t say we have a point to prove. I think we just owe ourselves a good performance. We just need to show what we can do here at Loftus,” he said.

“We are now back at Loftus, our fortress, so it’s going to be a good game.”

Following his arrival at the Vodacom Bulls at the end of 2020, Louw has given some consistent, stellar performances for the side which has placed him among the list of young players expected to don the green and gold of the Springboks one day.

The versatile loose-forward indicated that his focus is on ensuring that he remains in good physical shape, and he contributes to the Vodacom Bulls’ cause before his career is catapulted to the next level, international rugby – a dream that remains for him.

“Personally, I’m feeling very good, I’m in good shape. We have been working hard on our individual skills and sharpening them up over the past few weeks. I think the team will be a lot sharper now that we all know what’s coming,” he said.

“I think every day, for the rest of my career, I will always have ambitions of playing for the Springboks. I will never throw that ambition and dream of mine out of the window, no matter how long it takes.”

The match between the Vodacom Bulls and Munster Rugby will kick off at 19h45 tomorrow.

 

Limited tickets available for Vodacom Bulls home match

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Loftus Versfeld was a hive of activity as we returned to some form of normality with a limited number of spectators during the recent Carling Champions Match.

Having spectators at the stadium has increased the excitement ahead of the Vodacom Bulls’ first two home matches of the Vodacom United Rugby Championship.  Irish side, Munster Rugby, will be the first opposition to play the Vodacom Bulls (on Saturday, November 27) and they will be followed by a visit from Welsh outfit, Scarlets, on December 3.

The Vodacom Bulls have noted the increasing interest from supporters who want to be part of the first group of fans to cheer their side on when they return to Vodacom URC action.  However, due to the restricted numbers of people allowed at sporting venues, as per the Government Gazette and Disaster Management Act, Loftus Versfeld is only able to make available a limited number of tickets for general public sales.

There are a limited number of tickets that will be sold for the Vodacom Bulls’ match against Munster Rugby, at R150.00 for a seat on the Main Stand, on a “first come, first served” basis.  Buyers will be limited to a maximum of four (4) tickets per person.

Ticket sales opened at 09h00 today, Wednesday, November 24.  Purchases can be made online on www.ticketpros.co.za or at the Loftus Versfeld ticket office which trades Monday to Friday, between 09h00 and 16h00.

Blue Bulls Company CEO, Edgar Rathbone, explained: “We have been overwhelmed with queries and requests for tickets to our upcoming home fixtures, and we deeply appreciate the support and interest from Vodacom Bulls and general rugby fans.  However, it is important to firstly note that we are still facing and maneuvering our way around the Covid-19 pandemic.

“As such, we are restricted to accommodate only 2 000 spectators per match.  After 20 months of not having fans at our Vodacom Bulls home matches, it is understandable that there would be a desire to flock to the stadium.  We are pleased to be able to open ticket sales for our general supporters, while we are also able to offer tickets to our commercial partners – those being our sponsors, suite owners, and season ticket holders.

“We remain hopeful that we will soon see an increase in the number of people permitted at sporting venues, and we too will be able to accommodate more of our supporters as we slowly work towards returning to full capacity in future.”

It is important to note and adhere to the following guidelines, as per the Government Gazette and Disaster Management Act:

  • Spectators will be required to be fully vaccinated 14 days after receiving the Johnson & Johnson vaccine or 14 after receiving the second PFIZER vaccine.
  • Only persons with a valid ticket, valid ID, and valid vaccination certificate will be permitted to enter the facility.  Vaccination certificates can be downloaded on: https://vaccine.certificate.health.gov.za
  • No unvaccinated children between the ages of 12 and 18 years will be permitted to enter the facility.
  • Children under the age of 12 are allowed at the venue.
  • No alcohol consumption will be allowed to be consumed at any sports events.
  • Full COVID 19 protocols will be observed: no mask no entry, social distancing must be maintained at all times.

The match will be played at 19h45 (SA time) on Saturday.

Vodacom Bulls return to training after deserved break

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The Vodacom Bulls immediately hit the ground running as they returned to training this week after a deserved break ahead of the resumption of their Vodacom United Rugby Championship campaign.

After close to a year of non-stop rugby for the Jake White-coached side, the players enjoyed a break at the end of their opening European tour, including tough encounters against Leinster Rugby, Connacht Cardiff Rugby, and Edinburgh Rugby.

With the home leg of the Vodacom URC kicking off with a clash against the Irish side, Munster Rugby, on November 27, the side began their preparations for the continuation of their 2021/22 season campaign.

“The break came at the right time for us after a grueling year of rugby. The body and mind needed some time away from rugby for everybody to refresh and connect with their loved ones. That is important for us,” said White.

“We are now back to focus on the work that lies ahead. We have two important matches before the end of the year against Munster and Scarlets (on December 3). We look forward to playing some rugby again, especially playing at home at Loftus Versfeld.”

 

BBCo looking forward to hosting Carling Champions Match at Loftus

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The Blue Bulls Company is excited to host spectators at Loftus Versfeld when the Carling Champions Team takes on Kenya on Saturday.

The stadium had a successful test run last week after hosting the Carlton Cup final between ABE Midas Naka Bulle, who were crowned champions, and Northam Rhinos.

BBCo chief executive, Edgar Rathbone, said: “After an extended period of playing matches with no crowds at Loftus Versfeld, we are thrilled to be able to accommodate spectators again.  Having the government allow us to accommodate 2 000 people is a step in the right direction, and we are confident that in the near future we will see this number increase and we will soon be able to see a full Loftus Versfeld again.

“Before we get there, however, it is imperative that we, as the hosts, and the spectators adhere to all guidelines and protocols, as per the recent Government Gazette. The future and having full stadia lies heavily on how we observe and follow these regulations.

“We look forward to welcoming our spectators, the Carling Champions Team, and the Kenyan team to Loftus.”

All spectators will need the following to enter the stadium on match-day:

  1. Valid Ticket
  2. Vaccination certificate
  3. Your ID document or Driver’s license
  4. Mask

It is also important to note and adhere to the following:

  • No consumption of alcohol will be allowed at the stadium
  • Social distancing needs to be adhered to
  • Spectators are to be seated in their allocated seats
  • Spectators are to enter the relevant gates for entry and parking
  • Spectators are encouraged to arrive between two to three hours ahead of kick-off

The match will kick off at 13h00.

 

Vodacom Bulls confirm Morné Steyn contract extension

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The Vodacom Bulls confirm that experienced flyhalf, Morné Steyn, has signed an extension of his contract which will see him remain at Loftus Versfeld until the end of June 2023.

Steyn, who recently retired from international rugby after amassing 68 test matches for the Springboks, including the feat of appearing in two British & Irish Lions tours.

The 37-year-old began his professional career at the Vodacom Bulls in 2003 where he played until 2013. After plying his trade at Stade Français from 2013 until 2020 when he rejoined the Tshwane-based side.

Vodacom Bulls director of rugby, Jake White, expressed his delight at Steyn’s contract extension: “We are really pleased that Morné has agreed to extend his time with us at the Vodacom Bulls.

“Following his international retirement, he has indicated his hunger to contribute and get as much game time in the Vodacom Bulls jersey as possible. We are also thrilled that we will be utilising his skills as well as his leadership until June 2023.”

Vodacom Bulls eager to play in front of fans at Loftus

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The Vodacom Bulls are on the verge of returning to play in front of some spectators at home after almost two years of playing in an empty Loftus Versfeld.

While the team is currently enjoying some much-needed rest following a gruelling year of rugby, they are chomping at the bit not only with the prospect of seeing some spectators in the stands but also the first Vodacom United Rugby Championship match when they host Irish side, Munster Rugby, in Tshwane on Saturday, November 27.

“We have recently returned from our tour of Europe for the opening rounds of the Vodacom URC, and it was the first time in a while that some of us played in front of a crowd,” said Vodacom Bulls captain Marcell Coetzee.

“We are now really excited that when we return to play, we will do so with our own Vodacom Bulls fans present at Loftus Versfeld. Playing in front of a crowd that backs you certainly gives a team that added boost.”

As per Government regulations, a limited number of fans will be able to attend sports matches, with strict and necessary Covid-19 protocols to be followed in order for the events to run smoothly.

Coetzee lent his voice in encouraging those who intend to attend any of the upcoming matches to adhere to the protocols.

“It is important that we remember that we are still facing a global pandemic and the only way we will overcome it and eventually return to life as we know it, is to observe the regulations, guidelines and protocols,” the Vodacom Bulls captain said.

“Returning to stadiums now will be similar to venturing into unfamiliar territory – it will be a period of learning for us as players, event organisers and certainly the supporters. If we all comply to the guidelines the process will be smoother.

“It is important that we continue to wear our masks at all times, practice social distancing, ensure that you are vaccinated before entering the stadium and sanitise regularly.”

Coetzee and his teammates are also looking forward to hosting their European opponents for the first time at Fortress Loftus. After the clash against Munster Rugby, the Vodacom Bulls will welcome Welsh side, Scarlets on December 3.

“After having spent four weeks overseas, where we played in testing conditions, we are excited to be playing our next two fixtures in our own backyard with familiar conditions,” said Coetzee.

“Both Munster and Scarlets will prove to be tough opponents. They have already shown their capabilities in the opening rounds of the competition. We will have to hit the ground running when we return to training to prepare for these matches.”

Vodacom Bulls geared up for exciting Edinburgh encounter

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The Vodacom Bulls have kept consistency in their backline while making a handful of changes in the forwards pack ahead of their Vodacom United Rugby Championship Round 4 clash against Edinburgh Rugby on Saturday.

The side will see Chris Smith earning a starting berth at flyhalf as the only change to the backline that faced Cardiff Rugby a week ago.

The forwards will see the return of Lizo Gqoboka and Mornay Smith as the starting props, while a new loose trio will see captain Marcell Coetzee playing alongside Arno Botha at blindside flanker and Muller Uys at No8.

Experienced Springbok flyhalf, Morne Steyn, will provide cover from the bench.

Vodacom Bulls director of rugby, Jake White, said: “It’s been quite an experience for our squad in these past four weeks in the UK, adapting to the Vodacom United Rugby Championship – new opposition and unfamiliar conditions.

“Edinburgh is a top side that is well-coached, with a number of international players. We expect another challenging encounter against a competitive opposition. We look forward to ending off this tour on a high note.”

The match kicks off at 18h15 SA time, and it will be televised on SuperSport.

The Vodacom Bulls team is (15-9; 1-8):

David Kriel (Betway Centurion), Madosh Tambwe (Pretoria), Cornal Hendricks (Northam), Harold Vorster (Northam), Kurt-Lee Arendse (Betway Centurion), Chris Smith (Harlequins), Embrose Papier (FNB Tuks); Lizo Gqoboka (ABE Midas Naka Bulle), Bismarck du Plessis (Betway Centurion), Mornay Smith (Betway Centurion), Janko Swanepoel (Pretoria), Ruan Nortje (ABE Midas Naka Bulle), Marcell Coetzee (CAPT, ABE Midas Naka Bulle), Arno Botha (ABE Midas Naka Bulle), Muller Uys (FNB Tuks)

Replacements: Schalk Erasmus (Tuine), Simphiwe Matanzima (ABE Midas Naka Bulle), Robert Hunt (Harlequins), Walt Steenkamp (Betway Centurion), Elrigh Louw (FNB Tuks) Marco Jansen van Vuren (Pretoria), Morne Steyn (Tuine), Lionel Mapoe (Pretoria)

 

 

 

Vodacom Bulls make changes for Cardiff clash

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The Vodacom Bulls have made a handful of changes to their side that will face Welsh side, Cardiff Rugby, in Round 3 of the Vodacom United Rugby Championship on Saturday. Vodacom Bulls director of rugby, Jake White, has opted to make full use of the team’s rotation system ahead of the match that will be played at Cardiff Arms Park.

White, said: “We are making some changes to our match-day squad this week to ensure that we utilise our squad depth while giving fair opportunity to the players to get a feel of this competitive tournament.”

The Vodacom Bulls team will see five changes to the backline personnel, while four new faces will be seen from the forwards’ pack that was on duty last weekend against Connacht Rugby.

Fullback David Kriel, wingers Madosh Tambwe and Kurt-Lee Arendse make returns to the starting XV, while scrumhalf Ambrose Papier makes a welcomed return in the run-on team after having spent weeks recuperating from an injury ahead of the start of the Vodacom URC. Cornal Hendricks will shift from wing to the familiar outside centre position, where he will partner with Harold Vorster.

A new-look front row will see hooker Bismarck du Plessis linking up with props Simphiwe Matanzima and Jacques van Rooyen. Janko Swanepoel, at lock, and Jacques du Plessis, at blindside flanker, will both earn starting berths.

“Cardiff has shown good form so far this season in their win over Connacht at home, and, despite their narrow defeat, last week in the Welsh derby against Ospreys. We expect them to come out guns blazing, and we have no doubt that they will be a tough side to face,” added White.

The match will kick-off at 20h35 SA time, and it will be televised on SuperSport.

The Vodacom Bulls team to face Cardiff Rugby is:

Vodacom Bulls: (15-9; 1-8)

David Kriel (Betway Centurion), Madosh Tambwe (Pretoria), Cornal Hendricks (Northam), Harold Vorster (Northam), Kurt-Lee Arendse (Betway Centurion), Johan Goosen (ABE Midas Naka Bulle), Embrose Papier (FNB Tuks); Simphiwe Matanzima (ABE Midas Naka Bulle), Bismarck du Plessis (Betway Centurion), Jacques van Rooyen (Tuine), Janko Steenkamp (Pretoria), Ruan Nortje (ABE Midas Naka Bulle), Marcell Coetzee (CAPT, ABE Midas Naka Bulle), Jacques du Plessis (FNB Tuks), Elrigh Louw (FNB Tuks)

Replacements: Jan-Hendrik Wessels (U20), Lizo Gqoboka (ABE Midas Naka Bulle), Robert Hunt (Harlequins), Walt Steenkamp (Betway Centurion), Arno Botha (ABE Midas Naka Bulle), Keagan Johannes (FNB Tuks), Chris Smith (Harlequins), Lionel Mapoe (Pretoria)