Ackermann loads Bulls XV with Springbok muscle for must-win Bristol clash

Ten capped Boks feature in the run-on team, with lock Ruan Nortje once again entrusted with the captaincy. The breakout Bok star has been a cornerstone of the Bulls' pack this season and will be central to the hosts' efforts to impose themselves physically against an in-form Bristol outfit.

There is also a timely boost at halfback with the return of Embrose Papier, who produced a Man of the Match display last weekend after being drafted in at short notice. Papier's tempo and threat around the fringes will be key alongside Handre Pollard, who brings composure and tactical control.

The midfield pairing of Harold Vorster and David Kriel is reunited, but Canan Moodie misses out while he continues to follow concussion protocols. At the back, Willie le Roux's experience and vision add another layer of attacking threat, particularly in broken play.

Bristol Bears arrive with a perfect record in the competition, while the Bulls are still searching for their first win. 

With only two rounds remaining, this fixture is a must-win for the home team if they are to have any chance of making the Champions Cup playoffs.

Bulls - 15 Willie le Roux, 14 Sebastian de Klerk, 13 David Kriel, 12 Harold Vorster, 11 Stravino Jacobs, 10 Handre Pollard, 9 Embrose Papier, 8 Jeandre Rudolph, 7 Elrigh Louw, 6 Marco van Staden, 5 Ruan Nortje (capt), 4 Cobus Wiese, 3 Wilco Louw, 2 Johan Grobbelaar, 1 Jan-Hendrik Wessels.

Replacements: 16 Akker van der Merwe, 17 Gerhard Steenekamp, 18 Mornay Smith, 19 Ruan Vermaak, 20 Mpilo Gumede, 21 Zak Burger, 22 Stedman Gans, 23 Sergeal Petersen.