Purposeful additions to a strong spine: Running the rule over the Bulls squad for new season

The Bulls used their annual awards ceremony on Tuesday evening to confirm an imposing 57-man roster that will do duty in the URC and European Champions Cup this upcoming season.

Director of rugby Jake White has placed a premium on players with game-breaking ability to complement what is a strong spine.

The Bulls, who could point to several mitigating events, didn't perform to their usual high standards last season and have been purposeful in recruiting for the new campaign.

Forwards:

Akker van der Merwe, Cameron Hanekom, Cyle Brink, Dylan Smith, Deon Slabbert (loan), Elrigh Louw, Francois Klopper, Gerhard Steenekamp, Jacques Du Plessis, Jacques van Rooyen, Jannes Kirsten, Janko Swanepoel, Jan-Hendrik Wessels, JF van Heerden, Joe van Zyl, Johann Grobbelaar, Khutha Mchunu, Marcell Coetzee, Marco van Staden, Merwe Olivier, Mihlali Mosi, Mornay Smith, Mpilo Gumede, Muller Uys, Nizaam Carr, Phumzile Maqondwana, Reinhardt Ludwig, Robert Hunt, Ruan Nortje, Ruan Vermaak, Sebastian Lombard, Simphiwe Matanzima, Tiaan Lange, Tielman Nieuwoudt, Wilco Louw, WJ Steenkamp

Backs:

Bernard Van der Linde, Canan Moodie, Chris Barend Smit, Chris Smith, Cornal Hendricks, David Kriel, Devon Williams (loan), Embrose Papier, Harold Vorster, Henry Immelman, Jaco van der Walt, Johan Goosen, Kabelo Mokoena, Keagan Johannes, Kurt-lee Arendse, Lionel Mapoe, Marco Jansen van Vuren, Sibongile Novuka, Sebastian de Klerk, Sergeal Petersen, Stedman Gans, Stravino Jacobs, Wandisile Simelane, Willie Le Roux, Zak Burger

"Our new recruits have already added fresh energy to our base and they have been warmly welcomed by the rest of the group, which is wonderful as we look to build a wonderful brotherhood amongst all the players and management alike," said White.

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