The Bulls could be forced into some backline rotations to accommodate the return of Canan Moodie should they select him for the clash against Zebre.
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Fitting in Canan Moodie could potentially require a bit of musical chairs in the Bulls’ backline if they decide to bring the Rugby World Cup winner back for their United Rugby Championship (URC) clash against Zebre on Saturday in Pretoria.
Moodie trained this week and has fully recovered from the knock he picked up against the Dragons a couple of weeks ago. Now, the question for the coaching staff is where to slot the Springbok in for this important encounter.
Currently seventh on the log, the Bulls will need a full house of five points to move a step closer to securing a home play-off spot. A victory at Loftus Versfeld (1.45pm kick-off), coupled with a Connacht defeat to Munster, will see the Bulls seal their quarter-final berth.
However, they have a decision to make when it comes to fitting Moodie in and getting him valuable game time before the final fixture against Benetton. That match could prove crucial ahead of the play-offs.
Whether at outside centre or on the wing, Moodie changes the dynamic of the Bulls’ backline with his ever-present threat on attack and defence, even under the high ball. He has shifted between the positions, but for the sake of continuity, it would probably be wise for the Loftus side to allow him to settle in one role.
With the attacking prowess of Kurt-Lee Arendse and Cheswill Jooste out wide, outside centre is probably the position where he could settle over the next two weeks.
So, moving a couple of players around to accommodate him could be the order of the day ahead of head coach Johan Ackermann’s team announcement on Friday. Having him line up in the No 13 jersey would give the Bulls an extra attacking threat alongside their two wings.
But Stedman Gans has been solid at outside centre, with Ackermann preferring Moodie on the wing in his last two appearances. That could indicate the Bok will line up in the No 11 jersey, meaning Jooste may have to make way. It would also keep the midfield partnership of Gans and inside centre Harold Vorster intact.
Earlier this week, assistant coach Neil de Bruin suggested that Moodie could even play scrumhalf or flyhalf if required. And the utility back is unlikely to mind where he slots in, as long as he can play a role for the Bulls in their push for a play-off spot.