Springbok winger Canan Moodie and versatile back rower Cyle Brink headline the Vodacom Bulls matchday 23 as they gear up for a round five showdown in the 2024 Carling Currie Cup. The Bulls, hailing from the executive capital, are set to face off against the Toyota Cheetahs in Bloemfontein, the judicial capital, on Friday afternoon at 17h00.
Utility back Canan Moodie makes his much-anticipated return after a hand surgery in early June. The speedster will take his place on the right wing, while flanker Cyle Brink, who has been out since February, will feature in a dynamic five-three split impact squad.
Brink joins an impressive bench lineup including Tiaan Lange, who makes his season debut, Jacques van Rooyen, Francois Klopper, Sintu Manjezi, Keagan Johannes, Lionel Mapoe, and Devon Williams, who returns after overcoming a round three injury.
Head coach Phiwe Nomlomo has maintained continuity in his selection, retaining Dylan Smith, Joe van Zyl, and Khuthazani Mchunu in the front row. Cobus Wiese is partnered with Jannes Kirsten at lock, stepping in for JF van Heerden, who is out with a niggle. Captain Nizaam Carr will lead the pack, playing alongside Merwe Olivier at flanker, with Celimpilo Gumede at number eight.
In the backline, scrumhalf Zak Burger pairs with flyhalf Jaco van der Walt. Stravino Jacobs continues on the left wing, while Cornal Hendricks and Aphiwe Dyantyi form the centre pairing. Boeta Chamberlain, known for his reliable boot, will marshal the back from fullback.
Nomlomo is under no illusions about the challenge ahead, acknowledging the strength of their opponents. “It is going to be a mighty tough game,” he said. “They are a really well-drilled unit, and considering we haven’t won at their home ground in a while, it adds to the excitement, especially since both teams have been performing well in this competition.”
He noted the Cheetahs’ tactical approach: “Their point of entry is with their kicking game, which they use extensively to gain field positions and line-outs, forcing mistakes. They also boast a strong set piece, a formidable scrum, and they maul frequently, all driven by their kicking strategy.”
Reflecting on the Bulls’ recent performance, Nomlomo emphasized the areas of focus: “We reviewed last week’s game and worked on the necessary areas. We had strengths and executed well in certain aspects, so we polished those.”
He continued: “From an attack perspective, we want to be ruthless, and defensively, we aim for solidity. We are striving for a well-rounded game.”
On Moodie’s return, Nomlomo expressed his enthusiasm: “It’s great to have Canan back. He has been sidelined with his injury for a while, and he is eager to get back on the field. It will be exciting to see him in action again.”