Handre Pollard is among several Springboks rested for the Vodacom Bulls’ Investec Champions Cup clash against the Northampton Saints at Franklin’s Gardens on Saturday.
Prop Wilco Louw, lock Ruan Nortje, flank Marco van Staden, flyhalf Pollard and utility back Canan Moodie are all unavailable due to a mandatory Springbok rest period.
However, coach Johan Ackermann has included nine Boks in his squad, which travels overseas on Thursday.
The squad been bolstered by the inclusion of new signing Kade Wolhuter, who will compete for the flyhalf berth.
Elrigh Louw will also continue his return to full fitness now that he is two matches into his comeback from long-term injury, while there is also a welcome return for Nizaam Carr, who has spent recent months in rehabilitation.
The Bulls match 23 will be announced on Friday.
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Bulls touring squad:
Forwards: Akker van der Merwe, Alulutho Tshakweni, Cobus Wiese, Elrigh Louw, Jean Erasmus, Gerhard Steenekamp, Jaco Grobbelaar, JF van Heerden, JJ Theron, Johann Grobbelaar, Juann Else, Khutha Mchunu, Marcell Coetzee, Mornay Smith, Mpilo Gumede, Nizaam Carr, Reinhardt Ludwig, Sti Sithole.
Backs: Sergeal Petersen, David Kriel, Devon Williams, Embrose Papier, Harold Vorster, Kade Wolhuter, Keagan Johannes, PA van Niekerk, Paul de Wet, Sebastian de Klerk, Stedman Gans, Stravino Jacobs, Willie le Roux, Zak Burger.
Photo: Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images
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