New Bulls skipper to walk the talk

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A “privileged” Ruan Nortje says he will lead the Vodacom Bulls by example after the hardworking lock was appointed captain of the Pretoria outfit.

Nortje, who has earned the reputation as the most durable competitor in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship, takes over the leadership duties from Marcel Coetzee while he is off playing in Japan.

The Bulls are back in URC action on Saturday against Ospreys at Loftus Versfeld, where the onus will be on Nortje to help set the tone for Jake White’s charges after a three-week break in the competition.

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“It’s an unbelievable privilege to be handed this role. I’ve been really blessed with my achievements this year,” the second-row titan said.

“I definitely see myself as the guy that leads by example. I wouldn’t say I don’t talk much, but I’m definitely not going to talk too much either.

“We have enough leaders in this group to fulfil various roles. It’s an exciting dynamic and a comfort to have trusted men to fall back on.”

Following in the footsteps of the talismanic Coetzee will be quite a challenge for the 24-year-old Nortje, who will look for guidance and advice from the likes of veterans Bismarck du Plessis, Morne Steyn and Nizaam Carr.

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“There’s a massive overall mutual respect within our group,” he said. “It doesn’t matter how old you are, we’re all playing at the same level.

“We’re so grateful to the more experienced guys for really mentoring us. It’s really developed us youngsters. It’s a culture we’ll continue to pursue and grow.”

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Photo: Twitter/@Springboks

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Devin Hermanus