Bulls suffer setback as Willie le Roux ruled out

The Bulls have been dealt a significant blow ahead of their United Rugby Championship clash against Munster, with veteran fullback Willie le Roux ruled out due to a head injury.

The Springbok star will not travel with the team to Ireland after failing to meet return-to-play protocols.

Le Roux sustained the injury during the Bulls' recent victory over the Ospreys at Loftus Versfeld.

Although he appeared to recover quickly, team medical staff confirmed that the 34-year-old has not completed the necessary assessments to be cleared for contact training or match participation.

Jake White, Bulls Director of Rugby, expressed his disappointment at losing such a pivotal player at a crucial point in the URC campaign.

Le Roux’s experience and playmaking ability were expected to be central to the Bulls’ strategy against Munster, a match that could prove decisive in the race for top playoff positions.

His absence forces a reshuffle in the Bulls’ backline, with Johan Goosen expected to step in at fullback. While Goosen has performed well in the role before, the leadership and composure that Le Roux brings to the field will undoubtedly be missed.

Bulls are at second place in the United Rugby Championship with 13 wins from 18 matches.