Johan Ackermann believes the return of Kurt-Lee Arendse could provide an extra spark for the Vodacom Bulls in Saturday’s crucial Vodacom URC clash against the Scarlets in Llanelli.
The explosive Springbok wing has recovered from a finger injury and will start on the left wing as the Bulls chase a first victory in Llanelli.
Ackermann made no secret of how important Arendse’s return could be.
“Kurt-Lee is world class,” Ackermann told the media from Wales.
“He’s been unlucky this year with not having continuous games. He came back from the Boks with a sore knee and then had one or two niggles, so we hope to get a run of games with him.
“These players have world-class abilities and they don’t need a lot of games to get back to their best, so hopefully it’ll start tomorrow.”
TEAM: Boks bolster Bulls for Scarlets clash
The Bulls also welcome back fellow Springbok Wilco Louw, who returns at tighthead prop after compassionate leave following the death of his father.
In the backline, David Kriel shifts to fullback, while Cheswill Jooste returns on the right wing following Canan Moodie’s injury setback.
Ackermann backed the young Jooste to grab his opportunity.
“It’s great to have the quality of those wingers coming in,” he said. “I know Cheswill is early in his career, but I think he’s proven that he can play at this level.”
MORE: Bulls out to break Llanelli duck
The Bulls head into the clash sitting eighth on the URC standings with just three rounds remaining.
Despite the Welsh side occupying 14th spot, Ackermann warned against underestimating them.
“The Scarlets are a very good team,” he said. “If you think just because they’re not in the top half of the table, they’re not a good side, you’ve got it totally wrong.”
Photo: Anton Geyser/Gallo Images
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Johan Ackermann believes the return of Kurt-Lee Arendse could provide an extra spark for the Vodacom Bulls in Saturday’s clash against the Scarlets.
The post Ackers thrilled by ‘world-class’ Kurt-Lee’s return appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
