The Edinburgh Rugby team has reinforced its lineup ahead of a crucial match against the Vodacom Bulls. The return of key Scotland internationals marks a significant boost for the squad.
Key Players Returning
Duhan van der Merwe, Grant Gilchrist, and D’arcy Rae are back after recovering from injuries. Their inclusion in the starting XV adds valuable experience to the group.
- Duhan van der Merwe – calf injury
- Grant Gilchrist – quad injury
- D’arcy Rae – ankle injury
Joining them are Pierre Schoeman, Magnus Bradbury, and Wes Goosen, who were rested during the previous European match. Young back-row player Liam McConnell also returns to the lineup.
Match Overview
This upcoming clash at Hive Stadium is vital for Edinburgh, who aim to maintain their flawless home record this season. They have previously secured victories against strong teams such as Benetton, Ospreys, RC Toulon, and Gloucester.
Last season, Edinburgh faced the Bulls twice in knockout stages. They lost one match in Pretoria but won the earlier encounter at Hive Stadium. This rivalry promises to be intense once more.
Coaching Insights
Head Coach Sean Everitt expressed enthusiasm about the returning players. He emphasized the importance of matching the Bulls’ intensity from the kickoff.
Everitt stated, “This match is one of our biggest tests. The squad’s morale is boosted with experienced players back. Our fans have supported us greatly, and we aim to repay their loyalty.”
Starting Lineup for Edinburgh
The starting XV for Edinburgh is as follows:
| Position | Player | No. of Caps |
|---|---|---|
| Full Back | Harry Paterson | 22 |
| Right Wing | Darcy Graham | 91 |
| Centre | Wes Goosen | 66 |
| Centre | James Lang | 85 |
| Left Wing | Duhan van der Merwe | 110 |
| Fly-Half | Ross Thompson | 34 |
| Scrum-Half | Ben Vellacott | 86 |
| Loosehead Prop | Pierre Schoeman | 144 |
| Hooker | Ewan Ashman | 47 |
| Tighthead Prop | D’arcy Rae | 31 |
| Lock | Glen Young | 59 |
| Lock | Grant Gilchrist | 227 |
| Flanker | Liam McConnell | 16 |
| Flanker | Freddy Douglas | 16 |
| No. 8 | Magnus Bradbury | 144 |
This match will take place on January 23, with kickoff at 7:45 PM, and will be broadcast live on Premier Sports.
Injury Updates
Several players remain unavailable due to injuries, including:
- Charlie McCaig (knee)
- Rhys Litterick (Achilles)
- Rob Carmichael (wrist)
- Mosese Tuipulotu (knee)
- Tom Currie (knee)
- Luke Crosbie (hamstring)
- Sam Skinner (hamstring)
- Paddy Harrison (back)
- Marshall Sykes (arm)
- Findlay Thomson (hand)
- Dylan Richardson (ribs)
- Conor McAlpine (hamstring)
- Matt Currie (hamstring)
As the team prepares for this significant encounter, fans are eager to see how the returning players will impact the game against the Bulls.
