Bulls expect Nortje and Goosen back in April but Louw's return uncertain

Bulls expect Nortje and Goosen back in April but Louw's return uncertain

The Bulls have provided an update on the injuries of club captains Ruan Nortje and Elrigh Louw, as well as flyhalf Johan Goosen.

Springbok lock Nortje suffered a knee ligament injury during the Jukskei Derby on January 25. He has already begun his non-invasive rehabilitation program, which is expected to last 8 to 10 weeks.

Similarly, Goosen, last season's United Rugby Championship (URC) Golden Boot winner, underwent knee surgery and has completed the first two weeks of his recovery, with a return also expected in April.

Both players could be available when the Bulls head to France for their Challenge Cup Round of 16 clash against Aviron Bayonnais. If they advance, they may also feature in the quarterfinals. Later that month, the Bulls face Munster at Thomond Park in URC Round 15, followed by a trip to Glasgow to take on the Warriors in Round 16.

Meanwhile, the Bulls revealed that Springbok loose forward Louw is still awaiting surgery for a long-term injury sustained in the second half of the same derby.

Swelling around the affected area has delayed the operation, which is now scheduled within the next two weeks. His recovery timeline will only be determined after the procedure.

The Bulls have expressed their support for all three players as they work towards full rehabilitation, with no further updates expected as they focus on their recovery programs.

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