Bulls, Stormers and Sharks lead SA URC charge as Lions struggle

The United Rugby Championship is on hold while the Nations Championship takes over the November international window, and the South African franchises can now review their opening five matches. According to IOL, the Bulls, Stormers and Sharks have made strong starts, while the Lions have had a much tougher time.

Only four points separate the top five teams. Former champions Glasgow Warriors lead the standings, with the three South African sides directly behind them.

How the four franchises stand

Bulls: Second on the log with four wins and one loss from five games, 21 points and a points difference of +108. IOL singled out loose forward Jeandré Rudolph as a major influence on their early form. The report says the squad’s depth and experience should help as the season gets busier in December.

Stormers: Third, also on 21 points after four wins and a loss, with a points difference of +65. They beat Ulster at the weekend, which kept their home record in this season’s competition unbeaten. IOL noted that injuries are a concern. Evan Roos, Deon Fourie, André-Hugo Venter and Bongi Mbonambi are among several forwards who have been knocked about, along with a few backs, and some of them could miss games after the restart. The report still considers the squad deep enough to stay among the leading teams in December and January.

Sharks: Fourth on 19 points from four wins and a loss, with a points difference of +33. They won both of their away matches despite being without some senior players. Head coach JP Pietersen has backed his younger players, and IOL said they have repaid that faith. The Sharks will hope their injured key players return soon, and their December fixtures are back in South Africa.

Lions: Thirteenth, with two wins and three defeats, nine points and a points difference of -55. IOL described their first overseas tour of the season as disappointing. The report said they lost lock Hyron Andrews before their first tour match in the Champions Cup, which it called a devastating blow, yet they still fought hard. It said they now have plenty of ground to make up and need to find consistency soon.

What happens next

Supporters should expect no URC matches for about a month while the international window runs. The competition resumes in December, and the Sharks will play at home in South Africa when it does. Team news on the Stormers’ and Sharks’ injured players will be worth watching before then.

This story is based on reporting by IOL.