Habana back for Bulls

THERE were high-fives, broad smiles and fresh enthusiasm in the Bulls camp when Bryan Habana joined the team in preparation for Saturday’s Currie Cup game against Griquas at Loftus Versfeld.

Habana has just returned from his honeymoon and trained with his team-mates on Tuesday for the match that can see the Bulls move into third place on the log.Habana was full of enthusiasm and jokes and worked hard in a session where blood flowed when Jaco Engels and Dewald Potgieter collided.Potgieter, who had to leave the field against the Cheetahs last Saturday due to a wound to his head, again came off worse to increase the workload of team doctor Org Strauss.Meanwhile, Strauss confirmed that Chiliboy Ralepelle will not be considered for the next two games. He has been diagnosed with a stress fracture in his foot, but should be fit for the semi-final.The Bulls still have Bandise Maku an Derick Kuün as hookers, with the latter set to wear the No 2 jersey against Griquas.There is a possibility that Gary Botha may play for the Bulls for the first time since 2007 against the Leopards next weekend. He has been playing for English club side Harlequins and will return to South African next week.While no contract has been agreed, all indications are that he will be playing his rugby in Pretoria again.Should he be picked, he will not qualify to play in the semi-finals and final of the Currie Cup.The same applies to Ross Geldenhuys, the prop that has been loaned to the Bulls by the Lions.Geldenhuys will probably play 20 minutes against Griquas and an hour against the Leopards, but cannot be considered after that. His presence will also give Werner Kruger a chance to get some rest.’Werner has been playing non-stop since the Super 14 and has one or two light injuries. He will appreciate the rest,’ said Bulls coach Frans Ludeke.He was also delighted with Habana’s return. ‘How can you not be? Bryan is a world-class player and a great team man. He brings energy to the side and is joining us at just the right time.’ – Superrugby