Smal unveils Bulls' backroom staff

NEWS: The Bulls have unveiled a skilled team of coaches that will oversee the defence of their Currie Cup title.

New head coach Gert Smal has revealed his backroom staff.

The Pretoria-based side last month announced the arrival of former Springbok assistant coach Smal at Loftus Versfeld, to spearhead the team.

The former Bok flank will be ably assisted by a competent coaching compliment for the campaign that kicks off with a visit to Nelspruit on Friday, where the Bulls will face the Pumas.

Former Bulls Under-20 coaches Pine Pienaar (defence coach), Hayden Groepes (backs and attack coach) and Edgar Marutlulle (scrum coach) will take up their reins in the Currie Cup team.

"We are privileged at the Bulls to have a number of talented coaches within our structures," said Bulls Director of Rugby Jake White.

"A knowledgeable coach like Gert will certainly find comfort in being surrounded by an experienced coach like Pine Pienaar, a hard-working and committed individual like Hayden Groepes and one of the most promising player-turned-coach in Edgar Marutlulle.

"We have no doubt that this team of coaches and the squad of players that we have will continue to fly the Bulls flag high in the Currie Cup this year."

The Bulls’ Currie Cup coaching team is:

Head coach – Gert Smal

Defence coach – Pine Pienaar

Backs & attack coach – Hayden Groepes

Scrum coach – Edgar Marutlulle