Recovery in Pretoria and training at Loftus Versfeld could just be the recipe the Bulls need ahead of their URC final against Leinster next Friday in Dublin. Some rest and recovery at home, coupled with training at altitude, could aid the Bulls in their quest to finally break their bridesmaid curse in the United Rugby Championship (URC). Unlike the Lions, the Pretoria side’s decision to return home and allow their players to recover with their families could prove pivotal to their mental readiness for what awaits at Croke Park in Dublin next weekend against Leinster.
The Bulls return to the city where they lost last season’s URC final, looking to overturn that painful result. Time away from Ireland and surrounded by familiar faces back home could provide exactly the mental boost they need ahead of the biggest match of their campaign. While the Lions opted to remain in Ireland before their quarter-final against the defending champions, Bulls head coach Johan Ackermann chose a different route, flying his squad back to Pretoria rather than having them spend another week away from home.
On paper, staying in Ireland may have seemed the logical option. Edinburgh is only a short flight from Dublin, and avoiding additional travel would certainly have had its advantages. However, Ackermann understands that recovery is about more than just logistics. Following a bruising semi-final victory over Glasgow Warriors, his players needed an opportunity to recharge physically and mentally.
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