Edinburgh Rugby Gears Up for a Crucial Match Against Vodacom Bulls!
On January 21, 2026, Edinburgh Rugby is making headlines as they prepare for an exciting showdown against the Vodacom Bulls in the BKT United Rugby Championship at Hive Stadium this Friday, January 23, with kickoff set for 7:45 PM, broadcast live on Premier Sports.
The team has announced a significant transformation to their starting lineup, with seven players making their way back into the mix. The capital club is thrilled to see Scotland internationals Duhan van der Merwe (returning from a calf injury), Grant Gilchrist (quad injury), and D’arcy Rae (ankle injury) all back in action, ready to contribute to the team’s efforts.
In addition to these returning stars, Edinburgh is bolstered by the inclusion of British & Irish Lion Pierre Schoeman, as well as Magnus Bradbury and Wes Goosen, who join young talent Liam McConnell in the lineup after being rested during last weekend's European match.
This upcoming fixture at Hive Stadium is particularly significant, as Edinburgh aims to preserve their flawless home record this season. They have previously triumphed over teams like Benetton, Ospreys, RC Toulon, and Gloucester on their turf, further adding to the excitement surrounding this match.
Last season, Edinburgh faced the Bulls in two thrilling knockout matches. In a memorable encounter, Sean Everitt’s squad clinched a nail-biting 33-28 win at Hive Stadium during the EPCR Challenge Cup Quarter-Final. However, the Bulls managed to turn the tables later by securing a 42-33 victory in Pretoria during the BKT URC Quarter-Final.
Head Coach Sean Everitt expressed his enthusiasm about the returning players, stating, "It’s fantastic to welcome back such an experienced group for what is certainly one of our biggest tests of the season. The return of Duhan, Grant, and D’arcy, along with Pierre, Wes, and Liam brings a tremendous boost to our squad."
He further commented on the challenge posed by the Vodacom Bulls, noting, "We are well aware of the caliber of players they bring to the field; their roster includes numerous Springbok talents, and they play a very physical, high-intensity style of rugby. To succeed, we need to meet that level of physicality from the opening whistle."
Everitt also emphasized the importance of their loyal fans: "We take great pride in our unbeaten home streak this season, and we aim to keep it intact for our supporters. They have been phenomenal throughout the year, and it’s crucial for them to rally behind us right from the kick-off this Friday night, helping us secure the win that this hardworking team strives for."
Harry Paterson, who made a commendable return from injury last weekend, retains his position at full-back. He will be supported in the back three by Scotland’s leading all-time try-scorers, Darcy Graham and the returning Van der Merwe.
In the midfield, Goosen – who played at outside centre in last month’s victory over RC Toulon – pairs up with James Lang. Meanwhile, the half-back duo remains unchanged, with scrum-half Ben Vellacott and stand-off Ross Thompson orchestrating the game.
Up front, tighthead Rae is making his first appearance since the Autumn Nations Series, joining forces with British & Irish Lions Schoeman and Ewan Ashman in the front row. Veteran Grant Gilchrist returns to partner Glen Young in the second row, adding strength and experience to the pack.
The back-row features a compelling mix of youth and experience, as club captain Magnus Bradbury returns to wear the number 8 jersey alongside promising youngsters McConnell, aged 21, and 20-year-old Freddy Douglas. Both have been recognized for their impressive performances and were named in Scotland’s Guinness Six Nations squad earlier this week.
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Edinburgh Rugby Team Set to Face Vodacom Bulls at Hive Stadium in the BKT United Rugby Championship:
Date: Friday, January 23 (Kick-off 7:45 PM) – Live on Premier Sports
1. Harry Paterson (22)
2. Darcy Graham (91)
3. Wes Goosen (66)
4. James Lang (85)
5. Duhan van der Merwe (110)
6. Ross Thompson (34)
7. Ben Vellacott (86)
8. Pierre Schoeman (144)
9. Ewan Ashman (47)
10. D’arcy Rae (31)
11. Glen Young (59)
12. Grant Gilchrist (227)
13. Liam McConnell (16)
14. Freddy Douglas (16)
15. Magnus Bradbury (144)
Substitutes
- Harri Morris (13)
- Boan Venter (97)
- Paul Hill (26)
- Callum Hunter-Hill (28)
- Ben Muncaster (52)
- Charlie Shiel (84)
- Cammy Scott (26)
- Piers O’Conor (11)
Currently Unavailable Players:
Charlie McCaig (knee), Rhys Litterick (achilles), Rob Carmichael (wrist), Mosese Tuipulotu (knee), Tom Currie (knee), Luke Crosbie (hamstring), Sam Skinner (hamstring), Paddy Harrison (back), Marshall Sykes (arm), Findlay Thomson (hand), Dylan Richardson (ribs), Conor McAlpine (hamstring), Matt Currie (hamstring).
In conclusion, with both teams having much to prove, this match promises to be a thrilling encounter. What are your predictions for this game? Do you think Edinburgh can maintain their unbeaten home record, or will the Bulls emerge victorious? Share your thoughts in the comments!
