Johan Ackermann insists the Springbok training camp is the furthest thing from his players’ minds as the Bulls prepare for the biggest match of their season.
With the URC final against Leinster looming at Croke Park, the Bulls coach says every ounce of focus within his squad is being channelled towards bringing the trophy back to Pretoria.
ACKERS: Discipline paramount to Bulls’ final success
Several Bulls stars are expected to feature prominently in Rassie Erasmus’ plans this season, but Ackermann believes the prospect of Springbok involvement has taken a back seat to the opportunity that awaits in Dublin.
“I’ll be surprised if our players think about that,” Ackermann told the media on Thursday.
“To be fair, the talks I’ve had and the smiles I see on the faces and the energy I feel from the players, is all building up to the final. There’s only one thing on their mind and that’s the final.
“I don’t think there’s any player who feels they’re missing an opportunity to play for the Boks. I think Rassie has been quite clear with every player and those who are in his plans, will already know that.
“What will actually help is a good performance. It’s not something we have to address. My expectation is that the players are fully committed for this final – and I know they are.”
RASSIE: Bulls success a boost for Boks
The Bulls head into the decider carrying plenty of confidence after their playoff victories, but Ackermann has warned against believing they hold any advantage over a Leinster side that has dominated much of the season.
The former Bok lock said perceived strengths can quickly become a weakness if they breed complacency.
“As a player who has played in semi-finals and finals of Super Rugby, one thing I can testify to is that when you think you’re strong, you start to become arrogant and that’s dangerous ground.
“So my expectation is that we will not think we have any ascendancy and rather go and earn what we want to get.”
URC FINALS FLASHBACK: Glasgow gatecrash Bulls’ party
Photo:@BlueBullsRugby/X
The post Bulls locked in on Dublin appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Johan Ackermann insists the Springbok training camp is the furthest thing from his players’ minds as the Bulls prepare for the biggest match of their season.
The post Bulls locked in on Dublin appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
