Vodacom Bulls coach Johan Ackermann is in a tight spot, needing to shuffle his back three for the upcoming United Rugby Championship clashes against Welsh teams, following a narrow defeat to Glasgow Warriors and a couple of key injuries. The Bulls, still licking their wounds from a 25-21 exit in the Investec Champions Cup, are staying put in Europe to gear up for battles against the Dragons and Scarlets on the 17th and 25th of April, respectively.
The injury list has grown with Sebastian de Klerk out for the season, and both Kurt-Lee Arendse and Cheswill Jooste suffering setbacks in Scotland. This scenario has thrust the team's backline dynamics under the microscope. "We’ve got a strong back three and, if they are on fire, we want to keep that [combination]," Ackermann revealed on the Megafoon Rugby podcast. The coach emphasized the importance of mastering the kicking game and winning aerial duels, crucial aspects that the forwards and backs need to synergize on to dominate.
"Now we’ve maybe got another challenge this coming week with Cheswill and Kurt-Lee getting injured in our last game,"
Ackermann noted, hinting at the looming selection dilemma.Central to the reshuffling could be the versatile Springbok, Canan Moodie, who's equally adept at wing and outside centre. "Canan is a very important player for us," Ackermann said. His defensive prowess and on-field communication are standout features, especially prominent when he slots in at 13. Although a formidable winger, his strategic value shines at centre. "He’s still one of the best wingers around, but defensively his strength is at outside centre," the coach elaborated, acknowledging the tough decisions ahead in light of the injuries.
Moodie, despite being just 23, boasts an impressive resume with 72 appearances for the Bulls and 21 Test caps for the Springboks, including a World Cup victory in 2023. Ackermann praised his leadership, especially in guiding younger players like Cheswill. "He’s part of our defensive leadership group," said Ackermann, highlighting the blend of individual skill and systemic support essential for team success.
The next matches will certainly test the Bulls' depth and strategic adaptability as they aim to bounce back against formidable Welsh opponents in the heart of their home turf.