Ackers: Defence a big thing for Bulls

Johan Ackermann says the Vodacom Bulls’ defensive issues can’t be viewed in isolation. SIMON BORCHARDT reports. The Pretoria-based franchise is under pressure heading into Sunday’s Investec Champions Cup match against the Northampton Saints at Franklin’s Gardens...

JP confident Sharks can rediscover their bite

Interim coach JP Pietersen says he is energised by the challenge of righting a listing Sharks ship as they prepare to host Saracens in the Investec Champions Cup on Saturday. LINDIZ VAN ZILLA reports. Pietersen, appointed after John Plumtree stepped aside, admitted...

Stade Français blood giant SA youngster

A giant South African lock has been named in the Stade Français starting XV to take on the Cheetahs in Saturday’s EPCR Challenge Cup match in Amsterdam. Jacques Botha starred for the Hoërskool Monument 1st XV while representing the Lions at the U18 Craven Week and SA...

Saffa on bench as La Rochelle test youth

La Rochelle coach Ronan O’Gara has picked a young, inexperienced team for Saturday’s Investec Champions Cup clash against the Stormers in Gqeberha. O’Gara has been forced into the changes because of a number of injuries to key players and the absence of international...

Wolhuter at 10 for revamped Bulls

Flyhalf Kade Wolhuter will make his Vodacom Bulls debut in Sunday’s Investec Champions Cup clash against the Northampton Saints. The Pretoria-based side recently secured the services of Wolhuter on a loan deal from the Lions, who he represented seven times in the...

Van der Mescht, Pollock to tackle Bulls

JJ van der Mescht and Henry Pollock will start for the Northampton Saints against the Vodacom Bulls at Frankin’s Gardens on Sunday. Former Junior Boks lock Van der Mescht has made a big impact since joining the Premiership club from Stade Francais, while England...