Kriel ready for full-backing

AFTER his goal-kicking heroics at the weekend, could the Bulls call on David Kriel to line up at fullback in Saturday’s United Rugby Championship clash against Zebre?

- ASHFAK MOHAMED

There is a gap in the No 15 jersey after veteran Springbok Willie le Roux had surgery on Monday on his neck and shoulder area.

It is understood that it was an old injury that Le Roux had sorted out and not one picked up in last weekend’s 21-20 victory over Leinster at Loftus Versfeld. But now he is set to be on the sidelines for several weeks.

His absence should see Keagan Johannes - who displayed some classy touches against Leinster - continue at flyhalf against Zebre, although Johan Goosen is set to resume training soon.

At fullback, Devon Williams has started in most of the games this season, while he featured off the bench against Leinster. He should be the favourite to wear the No 15 jersey for the Zebre clash (2.45pm start), but considering Kriel’s kicking prowess, he may be a worthy option to return to his old position once more. That could see Stedman Gans returning from concussion at outside centre.