Sports
Bulls Face Injury Setback as Willie le Roux Undergoes Surgery
The Bulls have suffered yet another injury setback ahead of their United Rugby Championship (URC) clash against Zebre, with veteran Springbok Willie le Roux sidelined for at least a month after undergoing shoulder surgery on Monday.
Le Roux, a seasoned player with 97 Test caps, has his sights set on reaching 100 caps this year. His absence is expected to be a short-term precaution rather than a major concern, as the Bulls prioritize his availability for the crucial final stretch of the URC.
This latest blow adds to the growing concerns for coach Jake White, who is already facing challenges ahead of the Zebre fixture. Winger Sebastian de Klerk is expected to be suspended, while Springbok forwards Cameron Hanekom and Johan Grobbelaar are also fitness doubts.
Le Roux’s absence will force another change when the team lineup is revealed on Friday. However, the Bulls have received some good news—Canan Moodie is expected to return after missing the Leinster match due to concussion. If Moodie completes the return-to-play protocol, he will likely fill the gap left by De Klerk.
The fullback position remains uncertain. Jaco van der Walt has been out of action for an extended period, while Henry Immelman has been loaned to the Sharks. This leaves Devon Williams as the frontrunner to take over the No. 15 jersey in Le Roux’s absence.
Meanwhile, there are lingering concerns over Hanekom and Grobbelaar. Grobbelaar’s availability for the Zebre clash remains uncertain as he continues to recover from a shoulder injury sustained in the previous match. Hanekom’s situation is equally unpredictable—his last injury kept him out for weeks, causing him to miss key local derbies.
With injuries mounting, the Bulls’ management faces a crucial decision-making period as they navigate these challenges ahead of their next URC fixture.
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