Bulls name nine Springboks in squad ahead of clash with Saints
Vodacom Bulls coach Johan Ackermann has included nine Springboks in his squad for Sunday's Investec Champions Cup clash against Saints at cinch Stadium at Franklin's Gardens (kick-off 3.15pm).
The squad, which travels on Thursday, has also been bolstered by the inclusion of new signing Kade Wolhuter, who will compete for the fly-half berth as Handre Pollard, among other Springboks, is unavailable due to a mandatory rest period.
Elrigh Louw will also continue his return to full fitness now that he is two matches into his comeback from long-term injury.
There is also a return for Nizaam Carr, who has spent recent months in rehabilitation.
But Pollard, Canan Moodie and Marco van Staden are among those who will not travel to England this week.
The team for Sunday’s game will be announced on Friday.
The Bulls started their Investec Champions Cup campaign with a 46-33 defeat at home to Union Bordeaux Bègles last Saturday.
Vodacom 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.