The Pretoria-based Super Rugby franchise is facing a leadership void after both captain Ruan Nortje and stand-in captain Elrigh Louw were injured. Embrose Papier, the Bulls scrumhalf, highlighted the importance of their contributions to the team's success, particularly the way they secured front-foot ball for the backline. Coetzee and Louw will now step up to lead the team through a challenging period.
Embrose Papier, the Bulls scrumhalf, acknowledged the significant impact of Ruan Nortje and Elrigh Louw's injuries on the team. He emphasized that as a scrumhalf, he heavily relied on the momentum provided by Nortje and Louw, who were instrumental in securing front-foot ball. Nortje's knee ligament injury sustained against the Lions will sideline him for eight to ten weeks, while Louw requires time for the swelling in his leg to subside before undergoing surgery.
Papier highlighted the importance of having a strong forward pack, stating that a scrumhalf's decision-making is greatly influenced by the quality of the ball received. Papier expressed confidence in the leadership capabilities of Marcell Coetzee and Wilco Louw, who will guide the team in the absence of Nortje and Louw. Coetzee, the former captain, and Louw, a standout performer against the Lions, are expected to steer the Bulls through the upcoming challenges, including the first URC local derby against the Stormers this weekend. Adding to the Bulls' injury woes, flyhalf Johan Goosen underwent knee surgery and will be out for eight to ten weeks. Meanwhile, scrumhalf Bernard van der Linde announced his departure from the union in July after signing a deal with a Premiership team. Van der Linde, a 24-year-old Tuks graduate, expressed gratitude for his time with the Bulls, having represented the team since his junior rugby days. He played in various competitions, including the Champions Cup and United Rugby Championship, and cherished the memories made during his tenure.
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