The Bulls' rugby team is facing a potential crisis in their flyhalf position, and it's a situation that could leave fans on the edge of their seats! With star player Handré Pollard heading home for a very special reason, the team's depth is about to be tested.
The Bulls have just embarked on a three-game tour in the United Rugby Championship, but a significant blow came in their opening match against Ulster, where they lost 28-7. Pollard, the highly anticipated signing, made his debut in this game, but it will also be his last appearance on this tour.
Here's the heartwarming reason: Pollard is returning home to South Africa to be with his wife for the birth of their second child. What a beautiful moment for the family, but it leaves the Bulls in a tricky position.
And this is where it gets tricky for the coaching staff. Pollard will miss the upcoming games against Connacht and Glasgow Warriors, and his availability for the home game against the Lions is also uncertain, as the Springboks have a clash against Wales on the same day.
Coach Johan Ackermann had this to say: "I intended to keep my word about Pollard playing only one game. His wife is expected to give birth on October 20th, and he understandably wants to be there. Babies can arrive early, so he'll be with his family." But will the Boks release Pollard for the Lions game? Only time will tell.
Now, here's where it gets controversial. With Pollard's absence, the spotlight turns to flyhalf Johan Goosen, who is in line to make his season debut against Connacht. But there's a catch. Goosen picked up a calf strain in training, and his participation is still in doubt. Ackermann explained, "Goosen joined us on the tour and felt discomfort in his calf during training. We'll make a final decision on Monday."
Adding to the Bulls' woes, fullback Devon Williams is also heading home after sustaining a hamstring injury in the Ulster game. Ackermann confirmed, "Williams will be out for several weeks."
With these injuries, the Bulls' options at flyhalf are dwindling. If Goosen doesn't recover in time, only Keagan Johannes and Willie Le Roux remain as potential flyhalves.
So, rugby fans, do you think the Bulls can weather this storm? Will Pollard's absence be a significant setback, or do they have the depth to overcome this challenge? Share your predictions and opinions in the comments below!
