URC Preview | Vodacom Bulls (A)

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All you need to know ahead of Ulster's URC Round 4 fixture against Vodacom Bulls at Loftus Versfeld Stadium this Saturday. (KO: 12.45pm) 

After kicking off their Challenge Cup campaign with a bonus-point victory against Zebre Parma, Ulster return to URC action with a South African double-header before the international break in November. 

First up on the fixture list is a trip to Pretoria to face the Bulls. 

One of the toughest sides in Europe, who boast a number of Springbok internationals in their ranks, the Bulls will be a tough test in the South African heat. 

Match Details 

🤝 Vodacom Bulls v Ulster Rugby  
🗓 Saturday 25th October, 12.45pm 

🏟 Loftus Versfeld Stadium
🏆 BKT United Rugby Championship, Round 4

Team News

Ulster's team will be announced on Thursday at 2pm across social channels and the website. 

The travelling squad for the tour can be viewed here. 

Where To Watch 

Saturday's match will be live on Premier Sports 2, with coverage starting from 12.15pm. 

The match will also be available to listen to via the BBC Sport NI website and on the BBC Sport App. 

Supporters can also watch via URC.tv

The Opposition

Last season's URC finalists have had a strong start to their season, with two wins from three URC matches and a winning start to their EPCR Champions Cup campaign. 

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Johan Ackermann

The Bulls have refreshed their roster for the new season, with new signings such as Curwin Bosch, Luan Giliomee, Thaakir Abrahams and Hanro Liebenberg all bolstering a deep squad that features star Springbok internationals such as Handre Pollard and Willie Le Roux. 

Johan Ackermann's side kicked off their European campaign with a 56-20 home victory against Stade Francais, running in eight tries in a bonus-point win. 

In the URC, the Bulls have defeated Zebre Parma and the Lions, while suffering a narrow defeat against Munster at Thomond Park.

The Bulls are renowned for their physicality in their forward pack and explosive attacking among their skilful backline talent. 

Across all four matches this season, they have amassed 182 points, showcasing their attacking credentials. 

It should be an interesting match-up against an Ulster side who are also potent in attack. 

Players To Watch 
Willie Le Roux

The 37-year-old is a vastly experienced Springbok (101 caps) and a two-time Rugby World Cup winner, who is renowned for his vision, tactical awareness and playmaking ability. 

He is particularly effective at creating attacking opportunities through intelligent passing, accurate kicking and his ability to read the game. At the Bulls, his experience and leadership are valuable assets to the backline, especially in high-pressure situations.

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Willie Le Roux
Canan Moodie 

A 23-year-old Springbok (25 caps) back known for his combination of speed, physicality and versatility. Comfortable on the wing or at outside centre, he offers the Bulls a dangerous attacking option with his ability to beat defenders, exploit gaps and finish scoring opportunities. 

Despite his youth, he has already gained valuable international experience and continues to develop into an important player for club and country.

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Canan Moodie
Cameron Hanekom 

The 24-year-old back rower is an exciting South African loose forward who combines explosive power, pace and physicality. 

He is a strong ball carrier who can break tackles, make valuable metres and provide a threat close to the try-line. 

Equally committed in defence and at the breakdown, he brings energy and intensity to the Bulls pack. His performances earned him the United Rugby Championship's Next-Gen Player of the Season award in 2025, highlighting his potential at the highest level. 

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Cameron Hanekom