Bulls Suffer Injury Blow as Handré Pollard Among Three Players in Doubt
- The Bulls could be without three key players for their next URC clash after their victory over Ulster
- Springbok star Handré Pollard is among the injury concerns, with two other backs also facing uncertain futures ahead of the Scarlets match
- Johan Ackermann has a few options to consider, but Canan Moodie’s availability remains another concern for the Bulls
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The Bulls could be without three key players for next weekend’s United Rugby Championship (URC) clash against the Scarlets after picking up injuries during their 34-26 victory over Ulster at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday, 24 October 2026.
Springbok flyhalf Handré Pollard was forced off in the second half with a hamstring injury, while centre Sango Xamlashe and wing Cheswill Jooste also suffered setbacks that could affect their availability for the upcoming fixture.
Bulls coach Johan Ackermann admitted that the number of injuries was unusual but remained confident in the squad’s ability to cope with the growing list of absentees.
Handré Pollard Injury Adds to Bulls’ Concerns
Pollard’s hamstring problem is a major concern for the Pretoria-based side as they prepare for their next URC assignment. The Springbok playmaker was unable to finish the contest against Ulster after picking up the injury in the second half.
Xamlashe also faces a spell on the sidelines after suffering a concussion when his head struck the ground during a tackle attempt. Meanwhile, Jooste failed a head injury assessment (HIA) and will undergo further monitoring.
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Ackermann acknowledged the impact of the setbacks, saying it had been some time since the team had experienced so many injuries in a single match.
Canan Moodie is another player whose availability remains uncertain. The versatile Springbok back is still following return-to-play protocols and was scheduled for another assessment on Monday.
Bulls Have Options to Cover URC Injury Setbacks
Despite the injury concerns, Ackermann believes the Bulls have enough depth to navigate the situation as they prepare to face the Scarlets.
Dylan Maart provided some encouragement after making his Bulls debut as a substitute against Ulster, delivering a promising performance on the wing.
The Bulls also have other backline options available, with Stedman Gans and Stravino Jacobs capable of covering positions at centre or on the wing if required.
The coming days will be important for the Bulls as they assess their injured players and determine which combinations will be available for their next URC fixture.
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Source: Briefly News
