Johan Ackermann Deploys 14 Springboks in Powerhouse Bulls Squad for Champions Cup Clash with Glasgow

Johan Ackermann names a 33 man Bulls squad for the Champions Cup Round of 16. See the full list of Springboks traveling to face Glasgow Warriors.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 31, 2026, 8:43 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Rugby365

Ackermann Goes All In for European Knockouts

The Bulls have signaled their intent to compete at the highest level of European rugby by selecting a touring party featuring 14 capped Springboks. Head coach Johan Ackermann emphasized that while the team "sneaked" into the playoff picture, they intend to give their absolute best shot at advancing to the quarterfinals. The squad left for the United Kingdom on Monday evening, marking the beginning of a multi week tour that could define their 2026 season across two competitions.

Key Absentees Reshuffle the Forward Pack

Despite the star power available, the Bulls will be without three influential figures for the trip to Scotland. Veteran hooker Akker van der Merwe and loose forward Nizaam Carr have been ruled out due to injury, while premier tighthead prop Wilco Louw is unavailable for personal reasons. The absence of Louw, in particular, will test the depth of the Bulls’ scrumming reserves against a Glasgow unit known for its set piece efficiency. Ackermann noted that the team must show significant defensive improvement following their recent narrow victory over Munster if they hope to upset the top seeded Warriors.

Blending International Experience with Emerging Talent

The touring roster maintains a balance between World Cup winners and rising stars. Established internationals such as Handre Pollard, Willie le Roux, Kurt,Lee Arendse, and Canan Moodie provide the backbone of the backline, while the forward pack is bolstered by the likes of Marcell Coetzee, Elrigh Louw, and Marco van Staden. Simultaneously, Ackermann has included promising youngsters like Cheswill Jooste and Reinhardt Ludwig, ensuring the squad has the energy and versatility required for a high intensity knockout fixture.