- The Bulls have received an important update about Springbok scrumhalf Embrose Papier ahead of their next URC fixture
- Johan Ackermann has addressed the situation as the Pretoria side prepares to welcome Ulster to Loftus
- Changes to the Bulls squad could create an opportunity for a new signing to make his mark
Source: Getty Images
Bulls coach Johan Ackermann has confirmed disappointing news about Springbok scrumhalf Embrose Papier ahead of the Pretoria side’s United Rugby Championship (URC) clash against Ulster. The update comes just days after the Bulls recorded an emphatic Investec Champions Cup victory.
The development leaves Ackermann with an important selection decision as his team prepares for Saturday’s encounter at Loftus Versfeld.
Embrose Papier update ahead of Bulls vs Ulster
Papier suffered an ankle injury after coming off the bench during the Bulls’ 56-20 win over Stade Français on Saturday, 17 October 2026.
Speaking during the team announcement on Thursday, 22 October, Ackermann confirmed the 29-year-old had undergone surgery and would be unavailable for several weeks.
Papier’s absence means Paul de Wet and Zak Burger are the scrumhalf options in the Bulls’ matchday squad for the Ulster fixture.
De Wet retains the starting No. 9 jersey, with Springbok flyhalf Handré Pollard continuing alongside him.
Johan Ackermann explains Bulls selection decision
Ackermann has also opted to retain his starting backline despite making several changes to the forward pack.
The coach explained that maintaining continuity among the backs was an important consideration after changes to the front row, locks and back row.
“We’ve already changed the front row, the locks and the back row, so we felt we should keep the backs similar. We just felt we needed that continuity,” Ackermann said, as quoted by SA Rugby Magazine.
Dylan Maart could make Bulls debut
Meanwhile, new signing Dylan Maart has been named on the bench and could make his first appearance for the Bulls against Ulster.
Ackermann said the winger had settled in well since joining the Pretoria-based club and had earned his opportunity.
The Bulls will now look to build on their European victory when they return to URC action, with De Wet and Burger providing the scrumhalf cover and Maart potentially making his introduction to the Loftus faithful.
Source: Getty Images
Rassie Erasmus explains Embrose Papier’s Springbok recall after eight years
Briefly News previously reported that Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus recalled Embrose Papier after the scrumhalf enjoyed an outstanding season with the Bulls.
Papier earned recognition as South African URC Player of the Season after producing impressive performances, including a prolific try-scoring campaign.
Source: Briefly News
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