RUGBY NEWS - Springbok No 8 Duane Vermeulen may have captained several teams in his lifetime but he still sees his new role in leading the Vodacom Bulls into their Vodacom Super Rugby match against the Jaguares this weekend as something special.
With Lood de Jager injured, and Handre Pollard rested, the task fell to Vermeulen to lead the team he joined this season, and he is relishing the opportunity, especially with a bunch of young players in the side.
“It's very special, and it is a really nice thing. I have to thank the coach for seeing the potential in me. I think I’m happy to lead the team, especially against an international side. We have a good bunch of players, guys who listen to you and guys who back you so I think it will make the transition from playing to leading so much easier,” Vermeulen said.
The burly No 8 has settled in well at Loftus, enjoying his time in the capital city, and believes while Super Rugby is faster than the rugby he had in France and Japan, it hasn’t changed too much from what he has remembered.
“It’s fantastic, the coaches, the staff and all the players are all accommodating. They really help you to settle in as quickly as possible. I must say it is a pretty special place. When you walk around you can feel it. Especially now playing on the field, and the support from the crowd makes it more special. I am happy to be a part of this team and playing again in South Africa.”
