The Bulls are gearing up for the United Rugby Championship final with a change in their lineup due to star eighthman Cameron Hanekom’s injury. Hanekom, who was named the Next-Gen Player of the Season and part of the Elite XV, sustained a hamstring injury during their semi-final win over the Sharks. Despite his hopes of making a quick recovery, Bulls coach Jake White knew Hanekom would not be fit in time for the final.
In Hanekom’s absence, Marco van Staden has been named as his replacement in the starting XV, with Marcell Coetzee moving to the No. 8 position. Both players are seasoned Springboks and have been key performers for the Bulls this season. White believes that while they may lose some defensive prowess and breakdown impact without Hanekom, the strengths brought by Coetzee and Van Staden will more than make up for it.
White acknowledged that the team struggled in their previous loss to the Sharks without Hanekom, but he is confident in the abilities of Coetzee and Van Staden. He sees this as an opportunity for both players to showcase their individual strengths and contribute to the team’s performance in the final against Leinster at Croke Park.
While White recognizes the challenges that come with facing a formidable opponent like Leinster, he believes that Coetzee’s experience playing in Ireland with Ulster and his familiarity with the Irish style of play could be advantageous. He emphasizes the importance of adapting to the situation and making the most of the players’ unique attributes to secure a victory in the final.
In conclusion, the Bulls are prepared to face Leinster in the URC final with a reshuffled lineup that includes Marcell Coetzee at No. 8. Despite Hanekom’s absence, the team is confident in their ability to overcome any obstacles and emerge victorious in what promises to be an intense showdown at Croke Park.
