Bulls vs Scarlets URC 2026: Ackermann Makes 13 Changes

Johan Ackermann has torn up the script for Saturday's final home United Rugby Championship fixture, naming a heavily reshuffled Bulls side to face the Scarlets at Loftus Versfeld — 13 alterations to the match-day 23 in total, with eight of those changes coming in the starting XV.

Bulls Make 13 Changes for Squad Rotation

It is a sweeping recalibration by Ackermann, and it carries a clear message: this is a squad-building exercise as much as a result-chasing one. The Bulls have earned that luxury. Back-to-back wins over Sale Sharks and Ulster — the latter a 34-26 result at this same venue last weekend — have given the coaching staff enough breathing room to give fringe players meaningful minutes on home turf.

The most eye-catching selection call involves Marcell Coetzee. The regular captain was cited during the week but was cleared on the disciplinary charge. Despite that clearance, Ackermann has opted to deploy him off the bench rather than in his customary starting berth — a measured decision that speaks to player management as much as anything else. Coetzee's experience still makes him a critical impact option in the second half.

Le Roux Returns to Strengthen Backline

At the back, Willie le Roux returns to fullback. His inclusion adds a layer of composure and big-game reading behind what is otherwise a squad with plenty to prove. Le Roux knows Loftus, knows the pressure, and his presence stabilises the backfield even amid the broader rotation.

The Scarlets arrive in Pretoria having been hammered 52-40 by the Stormers in Cape Town last weekend, so their confidence is not exactly soaring. That said, they are not a side to dismiss — they beat the Bulls 47-14 earlier in this URC campaign, a result that will sit uncomfortably in the Bulls camp and gives this fixture a genuine edge beneath all the rotation talk.

Scarlets Face Tough Test at Loftus

Loftus Versfeld remains one of world rugby's most formidable home venues, and even a changed Bulls side carries physicality and set-piece strength that will test a Scarlets outfit still finding their footing away from home. For the fringe players pulling on the blue jersey, this is their audition — with the business end of the URC season approaching, no opportunity at Loftus should be wasted.

Kick-off is Saturday at 17:00 SAST.