– Cape Town Johan Goosen may not be fit yet, but the Bulls are salivating at the idea of unleashing Wandisile Simelane and Sbu Nkosi against the Lions in Saturday’s United Rugby Championship game.
Flyhalf Goosen experienced a significant knee injury against Cardiff early in the previous season and has been regaining his health over the past few months.
During a recent URC sponsorship event in Doha, he informed the Pretoria News that he was feeling fine and participating in full training, and he expects to return to Springbok contention for the end-of-year tour to Europe.
Bulls attack coach Chris Rossouw said yesterday after training at Loftus Versfeld that the 30-year-old will return to the field shortly, but was optimistic that Simelane and Nkosi would play against the Lions at Ellis Park (4.05pm kickoff).
“Johan is likely just over a year old now” (out injured). This week, he’s training. “He had two weeks of downtime because he had commitments with the URC when he had to travel to Doha (and London), so he was unable to practice with us for one week,” Rossouw explained.
“Therefore, he is entering the mix, and I anticipate that he will be available for selection soon.
“Wandisile and the other boys arrived here six weeks ago, and we’ve had a wonderful time together. I believe he has adapted well – he is a very exciting runner with the ball – and he is aware of his objectives for this season. In contrast, he fits in perfectly with the Bulls, and we are excited to see what he can accomplish for us.
“The team has not yet been chosen. When he (Nkosi) arrived here six weeks ago, we all knew there was a rehabilitation program for him to reach his full potential.
“I believe he is on his way there, so let’s assess the team’s composition. Last week, when we played each other, he played one entire game. He performed flawlessly, thus I believe he will likely be considered for selection.
“We are all aware that it takes a few games for him to regain his full form following an injury. But we are really pleased with his current situation.”
However, the Bulls have elite flyhalves in Chris Smith and Morné Steyn to call the shots in attack, and after playing exceptional rugby to reach last year’s final, they hope to maintain that level of play against the Lions.
“Because it’s the first game of the season, we all know that everyone will be a bit out of breath. But it’s pleasant when it’s warm… “The weather is conducive to running and playing our game,” Rossouw added.
“However, I believe we will play a controlling game in our first match and assess our fitness level. The offseason was quite productive, so the lads are eager to get back to full speed.
On Saturday, we’ll find out where we stand, but I’m convinced that we’re in a strong position to perform.
@AshfakMohamed