The Bulls could be in trouble after reports that European professional club rugby will launch an investigation into the franchise.
This comes after the South African team fielded a weakened squad for Saturday's Champions Cup clash against Northampton Saints.
They achieved a resounding 59-19 victory over Lyon and were hailed as the strongest team, advancing to the final eight of the competition.
11 Springboks remain at home
However, a week later, the Bulls selected a significantly changed 23 players, leaving the Springboks at home and 11 of them in Pretoria.
Jake White's team fielded 23 players, drawing criticism from onlookers who said it devalued the competition.
And according to timesSA Rugby said the issue may be considered by the governing body that oversees the Champions Cup and “anticipates a backlash”.
That could lead to sanctions and put their future in this season's competition at risk, even if the South African side reaches the semi-finals.
Earlier this week, Bulls coach White defended his decision to change teams.
“One of the things we learned last year was that we didn't rotate our team enough,” he said. “I kept using the same players over and over again and it came back to haunt me at the end of the season.
“It has nothing to do with the Munster game and everything to do with where we are as a group.
“Six of the players on this tour have played in three Super Rugby finals. Probably about eight of them won against Leinster. [in the URC semi-finals] in dublin. Cameron Hanekom and Stravino Jacobs are back from injuries and were the No. 1 starters before their injuries. ”
'It's a slap in the face' – Jake White defends Bulls selection in Champions Cup quarter-finals
The importance of rotation
He further added: “Rotation is very important for our position as a group. Even more importantly, we have players who are bruised and bruised after the last big game against Lyon, so we have to move them abroad. Doctors advised that it would be a big risk to take him there.
“Because of the trip and the injury, I might not be ready on Saturday. That means I'm here with a lot of injuries and my start on Saturday is in doubt. Dew.
“When we go away, we can't 50-50 use four, five, six, seven players who won't be ready by Saturday. The chances of us replacing them are minimal. Because it is limited.
“This is a great team. I'm confident and looking forward to seeing what this team does.”
according to timesMr White's explanation may not sit well with authorities, as there have been accusations that the Bulls are prioritizing the United Rugby Championship.
They currently sit third in the URC and will face Munster next weekend in a crucial clash at Loftus Versfeld.
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