Jake praises wily Nizaam Carr for keeping promise in storming Bulls return: 'I'm very happy'

During his first week of training, Nizaam Carr didn't hide his desire to leave his mark on the URC and duly delivered in the Bulls' fine 43-26 victory over Ospreys at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday afternoon.

The versatile 31-year-old loose forward marked his return to Pretoria with a Man of the Match performance, brilliantly flaunting the skillset that makes him such a value-adding addition to a squad that needs experienced, top-class players to juggle the demands of the tournament along with the European Champions Cup.

More poignantly, Carr immediately fulfilled the promise he made to director of rugby Jake White that the franchise won't be disappointed with handing him a lifeline in the liquidated Wasps' fire sale. 

"I'm very happy," said White.

"Nizaam was very thankful that we gave him the opportunity after the Wasps episode. He said to us: 'I'll repay you guys back on the field'. And what better way to do just that with the official award in his first match back."

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Carr was indeed superb, combining his customary presence at the breakdown with incisive linking play and a muscular finish for his try.

Yet his contribution was part of a broader theme where older hands like him, Lionel Mapoe and Bismarck du Plessis dovetailed with White's burgeoning core of young stars.

"That's why I made a point of signing those more experienced guys. They've played Super Rugby and some of them have been around the world too. They just give us so many extra options and they inspire confidence in the youngsters too.

"You saw how David Kriel was running in the backline with Harold (Vorster), Lionel and Nizaam linking with him on the outside. It's a great place to