As if the action between the Stormers and Bulls won’t be hot enough at the Cape Town Stadium on Saturday, the 2pm kick-off will heat things up even further.
The Bulls may have the edge in that regard as they had to play a few games in the afternoon recently.
Their last United Rugby Championship clash against the Lions at Ellis Park on January 25 had a 2.45pm start, while a week earlier, the Bulls faced Stade Francais at Loftus Versfeld in a 3pm kick-off.
The Champions Cup clash against Northampton in Pretoria on December 14 also began in the afternoon at 3pm.
But Bulls centre Harold Vorster said on Tuesday that the visitors won’t necessarily feel more accustomed to the summer sun against the Stormers.
“I believe on the day, it’s equally difficult for both teams. So, we will have to be prepared for the heat, but it is the same for both teams – it makes the playing field level,” the 31-year-old midfielder said during an online press conference.
“I think every derby game is a big one, so I don’t think there’s extra motivation needed.
“Every derby game is quite tough, so all the guys will always be focused and ready for the games.”
While Vorster didn’t want to reveal too many of the Bulls’ plans to clinch a second consecutive victory over the Stormers – having won 40-22 in Pretoria last March after seven consecutive defeats to the Cape side – he was wary of the home side’s attack.
But he will hope to produce another busy display after producing an influential outing for the Bulls in their last encounter, the 35-22 victory over the Lions on January 25 at Ellis Park.
“The Stormers are a very good side. I think you can expect anything from them – obviously physicality,” the former Lions stalwart said.
“But any special plays or tricks, they will bring it to (us) – ja, you have to be awake.”
Meanwhile, the Bulls finally released an injury update on Ruan Nortjé, Elrigh Louw, and Johan Goosen on Tuesday.
“Nortjé (knee ligament) was injured in the Jukskei Derby on January 25. He’s already in rehab and should be back in 8-10 weeks.
“Goosen (knee surgery) is recovering well, with 8-10 weeks expected – he’s already done two.
“Both aim to return in April, just in time for key Challenge Cup and URC clashes.
“Louw is still waiting for surgery due to swelling. His recovery timeline will be clearer soon."
In a further Bulls development on Tuesday, scrumhalf Bernard van der Linde has left the franchise and joined English club Bath on a three-year deal.
“My time at Loftus has come to an end, and I leave with so many fond memories that I have made over the years. I have been so fortunate to have had the chance to represent this jersey, and play alongside some amazing players and even better people off the field. I am thankful for the time and friendships I have made,” Van der Linde said in a statement.
“It is always tough to bid farewell to loved ones, but this feels like the right time for me, and I look forward to linking up with my new teammates and the challenge of playing rugby in the north.
“As a small kid, it has always been rugby all the way. There was never a thought of doing anything else in life, and this is another opportunity to add to that dream.”