Potgieter joined the Bulls directly after school and has since them made a name for himself at Loftus Versfeld with his flamboyant, but very effective playing style.

Potgieter is currently on the sideline with a sternum injury but he hopes to make a full recovery before the Bulls leave for Australasia.

The former SA Schools captain set aside a few minutes to talk to our website.

Tell us about your injury?

I’ve injured my sternum against the Lions, but it is only a grade 1 injury, thus it is not too serious. It is a soft tissue injury and it feels much better after I’ve started my rehabilitation.

Will you be able to play in the first tour match against the Hurricanes on 20 March?

For sure! If we had a game in two weeks’ time I would have been able to play.

What is the main difference between Vodacom Cup and Super 14 rugby?

The biggest adjustment for me was to get used to the pace of the game. Super 14 is much faster than anything I’ve experienced and your decision time is much shorter. You have to make decisions in split seconds and there is no room for error.

Do you enjoy playing flank?

I’ve always had a tendency to play towards the ball and I must admit that I really feel part of the game playing at the side of the scrum. I played most of my rugby in the number 8-jersey, but I must admit that I really enjoy my new position.

What is your opinion of the new ELV’s?

I like it. What I enjoy most is the fact that it forces you to be a better rugby player. In order for me to excel under the new laws I need to improve my game and that is why I am positive towards the ELV’s.

Who do you rate as the toughest loose forward combination in the Super 14?

It is a difficult question. The Sharks have a formidable trio and they compliment each other whenever they play. We face them our last game and I believe it’s going to be a cracker.

Who was your childhood hero?

Corne Krige. Growing up in the Eastern Cape I supported the WP and Krige was always my favourite. I admired his resilience and he always had the ability to bounce back after injury.

What is going to be the Bulls’ toughest match on tour?

We have a very tough tour, all the matches are going to be hard.

What are your goals for this year?

I would like the team to win. From a personal point of view I would like to play good enough to keep my place in the team.

Till when are you contracted by the Bulls?

October 2011.



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