Bulls won’t replace Bok lock

Bulls coach Johan Ackermann has backed two youngsters to stake a claim for the No 5 jersey vacated by Ruan Nortjé.

The 28-year-old Nortjé will continue his career in Japan, but according to Rapport, the Bulls have opted against recruiting a direct replacement, with Ackermann confident that JF van Heerden (22) and Reinhardt Ludwig (24) can fill the void.

“The door is open for all the players, especially at lock with Ruan gone,” Ackermann said.

“Now someone has to establish himself in that role. It’s a good opportunity for them to strengthen each other. It’s very difficult for one player to carry all the pressure. The season is long.

“The reality is that even if Ruan were still with us, he wouldn’t play every game. That’s how I see this role too.”

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Ackermann intends to share the workload rather than place the responsibility previously carried by Nortjé on one player.

“Someone has to show he can grab the opportunity, but both can do it, and by rotating and managing them it will be best from a physical and psychological point of view.”

The Bulls also have the experience of 32-year-old Springbok Nicolaas Janse van Rensburg, who Ackermann believes can challenge Van Heerden and Ludwig for the jersey.

“The jersey belongs to no one. They have to earn it,” he said.

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Photo: Vodacom Bulls