Rennie expects attacking Bulls in upcoming All Blacks test

All Blacks coach Dave Rennie believes his side is prepared for the style of play expected from the Vodacom Bulls this Saturday at Loftus Versveld. Rennie noted that while the Bulls will maintain their characteristic physicality, they are likely to be more willing to attack than the previous opponents New Zealand has faced on this tour.

He expects the Pretoria-based side to utilize a kicking game to challenge the visitors, but anticipates they will look to play more rugby when given the chance. Rennie highlighted that the Bulls possess a mindset geared toward attacking play compared to the two teams the All Blacks have already encountered.

Vodacom Bulls coach Johan Ackermann has selected a powerful match 23 for the encounter, which includes four Springboks. The Bulls lineup also features debutants, including former Sharks and Munster winger Thaakir Abrahams and flyhalf Curwin Bosch, who joins from the French club Brive.

For the All Blacks, veteran hooker Codie Taylor returns to the starting lineup to captain the team following a calf injury. Taylor was absent from the squad during the 54-0 victory over the Sharks in Durban and the opening match of the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series against the Stormers.

Rennie also reflected on his professional history with Ackermann, noting that they have coached in different regions during overlapping periods. Rennie previously coached against Ackermann when the latter was with the Lions during Rennie's time at the Chiefs, and they have both held roles in the UK and Japan.