
Bulls young guns will take their cue from seniors in URC final
The Bulls will utilise their experience in two previous URC finals to plan what might work and what might not.
Bulls captain Ruan Nortjé believes he has improved in his decision-making since last year's URC final defeat to Glasgow. Picture: Johan Orton/Gallo Images
The Bulls have experience in United Rugby Championship (URC) finals from previous seasons that will filter through the ranks to the youngest players.
Director of rugby Jake White explained after their 25–13 victory over the Sharks in the semi-final that the Pretoria outfit will be more than ready to take on Leinster in the final in Dublin on Saturday, after learning their lessons from two previous finals (Stormers in 2022 and Glasgow Warriors last year).
The Bulls will hope to be third-time lucky in Ireland. But while White said the odds are 50/50, they will control their own destiny on the day.
Bulls know how to win away
'All I can say is we know how tough finals are. We lost a home final here when everyone expected us to win. And we won the games away from home that everyone expected us to lose,' White said, referring to last year's final defeat against Glasgow at Loftus after beating them earlier in the season, and their semi-final victory away to Leinster in 2022.
The Bulls also had a hugely successful month-long tour in Europe this year, being the first team to beat Bayonne at home, the first South African side to beat Munster at home and the second to beat Glasgow at home.
White said travelling to Ireland as hype builds around the British & Irish Lions, would be good for his side. Playing in front of an 82,300 capacity crowd at Croke Park would also do wonders for his youngsters' exposure.
Bulls youngsters learn from World Cup winners
He said players such as Marco van Staden, Willie le Roux and Canan Moodie, who have won Rugby World Cups, and others who have played in finals in the last three seasons, would 'talk to each other about what works and what doesn't work, what they got right, what they got wrong'.
'I will work hard this week to get the players to enjoy it and just to be ready for the fact that people follow sporting teams around the world to watch finals to sometimes see the underdog win.
'I am going to spend this week getting youngsters to enjoy the fact they have got an opportunity that is special for them.'
For his part, Bulls captain Ruan Nortjé said he had grown in his decision-making since the Glasgow defeat last year. He said he will always accept the consequences of poor decisions, which he still makes, but he feeds off the leadership group around him to make the best decisions possible.
Leinster have also never won the URC in its current format. However, they have won the title eight times in previous formats, most recently being 2020/21.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


The Citizen
41 minutes ago
- The Citizen
Chicken feet and champions: Kolisi, Mapimpi and Am enjoy Mzansi's fave dish
On a boys day out, Springbok captain Siya Kolisi decides to kick back with his teammates. The setting is just as epic as the man himself. Recently, Siya Kolisi and fellow Sharks and Bok players Makazole Mapimpi and Lukhanyo Am took a much-needed break from the pressures of the rugby field. They indulged in a classic South African meal, chicken feet and dombolo (steamed bread). It was the perfect occasion for Siya, Makazole and Lukhanyo to enjoy Mzansi's favourite dish together. What started as a simple meal turned into a celebration of culture, food and camaraderie. There was also a side of humour and some playful banter from fans and teammates. Traditional feast in Durban: the Xhosa way Chicken feet and dombolo. Picture via Instagram The Rugby World Cup winners headed to Fresh Food with Thuladu, a popular eatery in the heart of Durban. It serves up traditional South African dishes, like the ones Kolisi, Mapimpi and Am relish. The setting was relaxed, with the men indulging in a hearty meal while sharing stories, laughter and, of course, a touch of rugby banter. But it wasn't just the food that caught everyone's attention. It was the bond between these Xhosa men that was highlighted when they relished the traditional dish. Siya, known for his strong connection to his Xhosa heritage, posted a picture of the meal with a caption that included their Xhosa clan names: Zikhali, uQhinebe, and oGqwashu. To netizens who saw the post, it felt like a reunion of the Dyani's, a term that means 'big man', 'grown man,' or, as locals say, 'Grootman'. This was a nod to those who have successfully gone through the rites of passage in Xhosa culture. For many, it was a powerful moment of shared identity and respect for their ancestry. Makazole Mapimpi and Lukhanyo Am: the silent giants While Siya may be the captain, his teammates Makazole Mapimpi and Lukhanyo Am are no strangers to the spotlight. Mapimpi is often seen as the quiet, stoic but most fashionable player in SA. He was at ease as he sat down with Siya and Lukhanyo. The trio looked content over plates filled with chicken feet, dombolo, and other offal delicacies. Lukhanyo is often reserved. However, you could see in the photos that he was savouring the rare opportunity for a bit of fun while standing out with Kolisi and Mampimpi. ALSO READ: WATCH: Inside Ntando Duma's magical wedding to Una Rams Offal: South African tradition of brotherhood In South Africa, meals like offal, the internal organs of animals such as the liver, heart, and kidneys, have long been associated with tradition and brotherhood. Men often share these hearty meals over good conversation, sometimes accompanied by a cold beer. It's a time-honoured tradition that goes beyond food; it's about bonding, sharing wisdom, and celebrating life. The meal Kolisi, Mampimpi and Am enjoyed was a reflection of their heritage and the unity they feel as teammates. South African captain Siya Kolisi lifts the trophy at the Rugby World Cup 2023 final between New Zealand and South Africa at the Stade de France on 28 October 2023 in Paris, France. Picture:Siya's Instagram post didn't go unnoticed. Fellow celebrities were quick to jump into the comments with playful jabs and cheers. One follower affectionately called them 'Desiney's Child,' a nod to the legendary R&B group, Destiny's Child, all while enjoying Mzansi's prescribed dish with Mampimpi and Lukhanyo. Another teammate, Eben Etzebeth, couldn't resist poking fun, quipping, 'Really nailed it with that food, yummy.' The comments were full of love, proving that the gents picked the right dish for a fun boys' day out. ALSO READ: SA's Amapiano DJ duo TxC wins BET award From the looks of it, this meal wasn't just about satisfying their hunger. It was a chance for these athletes to recharge, bond, and celebrate their shared history. In the end, it was the perfect choice for a boys' day out, illustrated beautifully by Kolisi, Am and Mapimpi enjoying Mzansi's favourite dish.


The South African
an hour ago
- The South African
Kaizer Chiefs plot move for Sekhukhune United goalkeeper Leaner
Kaizer Chiefs have set their sights on Sekhukhune United shot-stopper Renaldo Leaner, who recently earned his stripes with the senior national team, Bafana Bafana, according to iDiski Times . The 27-year-old, a product of the Ajax Cape Town (now Cape Town Spurs) development system, has rapidly risen through the ranks at Sekhukhune and caught the eye of top clubs following his stellar performances. Leaner cemented his place in the starting XI shortly after Eric Tinkler took the reins at Sekhukhune United. His standout moment came during the Nedbank Cup, where he delivered a heroic Man of the Match performance in a narrow 1-0 defeat to powerhouse Mamelodi Sundowns. With that display, he firmly announced his arrival on the big stage, prompting serious interest from the Soweto giants. Chiefs, known for reinforcing their squad with top local talent, are now preparing an official enquiry into his availability. Sekhukhune recently parted ways with veteran shot-stopper Badra Ali Sangare and Lloydt Kazapua, leaving them thin in the goalkeeping department. While they remain active in the market for reinforcements, this lack of depth means the club is unlikely to entertain any offers for Leaner, at least for now. Insiders close to the situation believe Leaner's quality has always been evident. One source remarked: 'He's a top keeper, and I'm surprised that he hasn't been the number one at Sekhukhune from the start of the season. Goalkeepers from Ajax are most of the time quality, all round like Chiefs' (Brandon) Petersen and (Jody) February.' Kaizer Chiefs' interest in Leaner comes as part of their ongoing effort to bolster their options between the sticks. With questions surrounding the form and consistency of their current keepers, Leaner represents a potentially solid long-term investment. Can Chiefs convince Sekhukhune to release one of their brightest assets, or will Leaner continue with Babina Noko's new era? Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Bluesky for the latest news.


The South African
an hour ago
- The South African
PSL transfer news: Saleng, Appollis, Mokwana, Mudau, Rhodes
The PSL offseason is expected to include several mega-money moves as Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates try to close the gap with reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns. A flurry of top talent around Africa (and beyond) is rumoured to be linked with South African outfits, insinuating another action-packed campaign for 2025/26. Monnapule Saleng has reportedly signed a pre-contract with Kaizer Chiefs (per SoccerLaduma). However, this has yet to be confirmed. In fact, it seems highly unlikely. has reportedly signed a pre-contract with Kaizer Chiefs (per SoccerLaduma). However, this has yet to be confirmed. In fact, it seems highly unlikely. Kaizer Chiefs are closing in on long-term target and Polokwane City winger Oswin Appollis , with talks reportedly reaching the final stages. , with talks reportedly reaching the final stages. Elias Mokwana is being linked with a return to PSL – AmaKhosi are the most likely to accommodate the move; however, you can't rule out Orlando Pirates. is being linked with a return to PSL – AmaKhosi are the most likely to accommodate the move; however, you can't rule out Orlando Pirates. Mamelodi Sundowns are yet to renew the contract of Bafana international Khuliso Mudau , suggesting a new club is on the horizon for the 30-year-old defender. , suggesting a new club is on the horizon for the 30-year-old defender. Orlando Pirates are keen on signing Cape Town City youngster Jaedin Rhodes after failing to land him in January. 'One of those reinforcements could be a long-time target, Jaedin Rhodes. Although the 22-year-old has endured an underwhelming season with Cape Town City, he remains a high priority on the Buccaneers' list,' a source said. 'The club [Orlando Pirates] has been met with resistance by City in previous attempts to lure Rhodes to Gauteng, but according to sources, will try once more in the upcoming window. Complicating matters will be the Citizens' peculiar situation.' Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.