The Vodacom Bulls have received a timely boost with Canan Moodie and Kurt-Lee Arendse both available for Saturday’s derby against the Lions in Johannesburg.
The 2023 World Cup-winning backline duo has not played for the Bulls since the 23 December derby against the DHL Stormers, due to Springbok resting protocol.
Having sat out seven weeks since the game in Cape Town, both Moodie and Arendse will be available for selection when the Bulls resume their campaign with the second leg of their Jukskei derby against the Lions at Ellis Park.
The returning Springboks will be welcomed by the Bulls, especially as it is unlikely that veteran fullback Willie le Roux will be available for the match. Le Roux started in the 30-28 win over the Lions in Pretoria and hasn’t yet begun his mandatory rest period.
Just two World Cup winners fielding kicks at training 😏 pic.twitter.com/0xSY7qTh85
— Official Blue Bulls (@BlueBullsRugby) February 12, 2024
If Le Roux is ruled out, the Bulls could field Arendse at fullback, but could also turn to Devon Williams, who has enjoyed a fantastic season on loan from the Pumas. Utility backs Henry Immelman and David Kriel are other options at fullback.
After returning from last year’s World Cup, Arendse and Moodie wasted no time in settling back in at the Bulls, scoring two tries each in three starts.
The Bulls are currently the highest-ranked South African team in the Vodacom URC, sitting in fourth place with 30 points.
Photo: Billy Stickland/INPHO/Shutterstock / BACKPAGE