Ackers turns to Currie Cup for URC prep
Coach Johan Ackermann says the Vodacom Bulls’ Currie Cup clash against the Cheetahs at Loftus on Saturday is “a great rehearsal for what lies ahead”.
URC mentor Ackermann has taken over the reins from Phiwe Nomlomo for the Bulls’ final fixture of the domestic campaign. The Herd are already out of semi-final contention after losing their last four matches.
Coming off a bruising 44-5 defeat to the Lions, Ackermann has confirmed he will hand opportunities to players yet to feature in this year’s competition – likely to include URC players – with injuries continuing to ravage the squad.
“We’re going to be introducing players who haven’t been involved yet,” Ackermann said. “It’s not ideal, because I would have loved this to feel like a warm-up game [for the URC], but we only have the Cheetahs match left. Now some guys will have to play a full 80 minutes, and it will give us a real indication of where we are.”
The Bulls’ long injury list has forced his hand, with Springboks Elrigh Louw, Cameron Hanekom and Gerhard Steenekamp among several senior names unavailable. Recent setbacks have only compounded the problem, including injuries to Cornel Smit and Chris Barend Smit.
“To be honest, the list in red is probably the best team we have at the moment,” Ackermann admitted. “But it has opened the door for young guys like Cheswill Jooste. This is a great opportunity to see if they are ready to contribute in the future.”
Ackermann emphasised the match will be used as a live test of both individuals and the coaching group.
“It’s the first game where I will see the things we’re trying to implement and the character of the guys in the squad,” he explained. “It’s also about how we as coaches and staff deal with certain scenarios. It’s a great rehearsal for what lies ahead.”
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The coach stressed that selection remains open, with Currie Cup performances potentially influencing the Bulls’ URC squad.
“Age and experience are important, but I’m here with a clean slate,” Ackermann said. “Everyone has the right to wear the jersey, and it’s up to them to prove it.”
Ackermann acknowledged the contrast between his side’s situation and that of the Cheetahs, who must win to keep their semi-final hopes alive.
“The Cheetahs are a stable and consistent team, they’ve been together a while and their destiny is in their own hands,” he said. “They’ve got more pressure than us, but we just need to ensure we get good value out of the game. If that means we win, then unfortunately they fall short, that’s how it boils down.”
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Photo: Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images