Injury boost for Bulls

The Bulls received a timely boost ahead of their final tour match, against the Chiefs in Hamilton on Friday.

Loose forwards CJ Stander (hip) and Dewald Potgieter (AC joint), who both sustained injuries in the 11-16 loss to the Highlanders in Dunedin at the weekend, will in all probability both be available for selection for the encounter with the Chiefs.

"We were really concerned about both players, but [team doc tor] Org Strauss and his medical team did wonderful work and are positive that both will be available for selection," Bulls coach Frans Ludeke said.

"The injuries were not as serious as initially thought.

"We are fortunate that the other 24 players on tour will all be available for selection,” Ludeke added.

The Highlanders brought to an end a five-match Super Rugby winning streak by the Bulls in Dunedin at the weekend, beating the Pretoria-based franchise 16-11.

It was a classic arm wrestle in which the Highlanders’ advantage in territory and possession in the second half paved the way for the victory.

The Bulls also struggled to convert a clear first-half advantage into points as they simply made too many errors.

Like the Bulls, the Chiefs come off a loss in their last match - when they fell short against the defending champion Reds (27-42) in Brisbane the week before.

The Chiefs had a bye this past weekend.