Uys leads Bulls in crucial Currie Cup clash against Cheetahs, Mapoe back from injury

No 8 Muller Uys will captain the Bulls in Saturday's crucial top-of-the-table Currie Cup clash against the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein.

The Bulls also welcome back a few stalwarts from injury. The experienced Jacques van Rooyen will add grunt to the front row as the starting tighthead prop, while Springbok centre Lionel Mapoe also makes a return as he partners former Blitzbok Stedman Gans in midfield. 

One of the Bulls' new recruits, lock Ruan Vermaak, has also been given a starting berth in the second row, while the talented Richard Kriel will be showcasing his versatility at fullback. 

Saturday's clash at Free State Stadium is an important one as it will determine which team finishes top of the Currie Cup standings - and therefore be in line to potentially host the final.

The Bulls are top on 47 log points, with the Cheetahs second on 43.

"This weekend's Currie Cup game will be like a final before the real final. It's an absolutely crucial game for both teams," Bulls head coach Gert Smal said. 

"The Cheetahs have undoubtedly been the team of the competition, beating all teams, including us, and only suffered that close defeat in their previous match. That could make them even more dangerous this week - they will want to bounce back. They have shown how much of a good side they are, how well-coached they are and how hungry and determined they are for success. 

"We will have to be at our best to build on the momentum we have accumulated to this point as we go into the important playoff stages from next week. Our boys have worked exceptionally hard this week and I am excited to see the team we have assembled in action." 

Saturday's match kicks off at 17:45.

Bulls team:

15 Richard Kriel, 14 Tharquin Manuel, 13 Stedman Gans, 12 Lionel