URC: Ruan Nortje returns to lead Bok-laden Bulls team for blockbuster Stormers derby

Head coach Johan Ackermann has made several adjustments to the side that faced the Sharks two weeks ago, incorporating a mix of tactical changes and fresh energy into the lineup.

Lock Ruan Nortje returns to lead the side, taking over the armband from Elrigh Louw, who captained against the Sharks. In the back row, Marco van Staden comes into the starting XV, while Jeandre Rudolph shifts to accommodate the reshuffle.

Among the backs, Canan Moodie slots in at centre, with Harold Vorster dropping out. And Embrose Papier moves to the bench, with ex-Stormers player Paul de Wet starting at scrumhalf.

The Bulls retain a strong spine with Handre Pollard at flyhalf, Willie le Roux at fullback, and David Kriel in midfield. The front row of Gerhard Steenekamp, Johan Grobbelaar, and Wilco Louw remains unchanged, providing stability up front.

Ackermann's selections underline a balance between consistency and tactical tweaks, with Nortje's leadership and Moodie's pace expected to add fresh impetus against a Stormers side renowned for physicality.

Ackermann emphasised the importance of clarity and energy heading into the derby: "We've assessed the Sharks game and made adjustments where needed. Ruan's leadership is vital, and bringing in players like Canan Moodie and Marco van Staden gives us the right balance for this contest. It's about alignment and intensity as we start the year."

Bulls - 15 Willie le Roux, 14 Sebastian de Klerk, 13 Canan Moodie, 12 David Kriel, 11 Stravino Jacobs, 10 Handre Pollard, 9 Paul de Wet, 8 Jeandre Rudolph, 7 Elrigh Louw, 6 Marco van Staden, 5 Ruan Nortje (c), 4 Cobus Wiese, 3 Wilco Louw, 2 Johan Grobbelaar, 1 Gerhard Steenekamp.

Replacements: 16 Akker van der Merwe, 17 Jan-Hendrik Wessels, 18 Khuta Mchunu, 19 Ruan Vermaak, 20 Reinhardt Ludwig, 21 Nizaam Carr, 22 Embrose Papier, 23 Devon Williams.

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