The Bulls showcased their strength despite missing key players, clinching a 38-26 victory over the Stormers at Faure Street Stadium in Paarl. Ackermann had at his disposal the talents of Springboks Willie le Roux and Nizaam Carr, as well as Hanro Liebenberg who made a return to the field.
Ackermann expressed concern for Bosch, who was sidelined unexpectedly.
"Curwin was scheduled to play, but he had strapping on his calf," the Bulls boss said. "We are a little bit worried. We hope he’ll be right for the first round [away to Zebre on 26 September], but it’s still too early [to tell]."He also noted that a proper scan was pending, which would clarify the extent of Bosch's calf injury.
The situation for scrumhalf Papier seems equally precarious.
"He’s [Papier’s] also one who I think will struggle to be ready for the start of the season, because an ankle injury is always something one can’t rush."
Despite the injuries, the pre-season game against the Stormers left Ackermann mostly satisfied with the team's fitness and performance. "I just said to Dobbo [Stormers coach John Dobson] that it was perfect in terms of what we wanted to see," he recounted. Ackermann highlighted that while there were errors that needed addressing, the game went well overall, particularly noting that no new injuries occurred.
Le Roux, another key player, experienced a minor hamstring issue, but the team otherwise emerged in good shape. Ackermann and his coaching staff were pleased with several moments during the game, indicating positive signs as they prepare for the challenges of the upcoming season.
As the Bulls gear up for their first match against Zebre, the focus will undoubtedly be on the recovery of Bosch and Papier. The team's ability to kick off the season with a full-strength squad could be crucial for setting the tone for their campaign in the URC.
