The Vodacom Bulls have named the strongest possible matchday squad as they look to avenge the 44-14 loss that a youthful side suffered at the hands of a vastly more experienced Exeter Chiefs in England in December.

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Halfbacks Zak Burger and Chris Smith, back after recovering from a short illness, will be tasked with running an exciting backline that includes Wandisile Simelane, Canan Moodie and Kurt-Lee Arendse.

“Cyle has a little injury, but should be back next week,” said assistant coach Chris Rossouw after announcing the team yesterday.

“We have a good pack, it has always been one of our strengths. Playing at Loftus we want to mix it up and use altitude to our advantage. Nizaam gives us a good mix of playing direct and being a link between backs and forwards.”

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Rossouw, who coaches the Vodacom Bulls backs, explained that although Smith has been backed as the starting 10 today, this does not mean Johan Goosen is out of the plan.

“Chris was ill last week and would’ve started, so we are just maintaining that momentum. Goosen ideally would’ve played fullback, but with the Boks being with us for just two more weeks, we just want to push as much game-time.

“Johan is in a good space, and he’s definitely going to play flyhalf in the future – with Chris. We are trying to balance that act so that they are both in good form come playoff time.

“I think what happened with Goosen after his injury is that he was being pressed to get quicker into form, and not allow the process to take its time.

“With him and Chris, it sometimes gives you a nice link, playing with two flyhalves, which gives you a kicking and running option. Chris will definitely do that and give us a nice balance of control.”