Henco Beukes

At number eight for the Bulls, Henco Beukes brings the kind of ball-carrying physicality that South African forward play prizes. Born on 30 June 2000, Beukes rose through the Pretoria-based franchise's development pathways and has been groomed as a powerful, athletic option at the base of the scrum. His game centres on strong, direct carries, a heavy presence in contact, and a work rate that keeps him busy at the breakdown. Beukes also offers a link between the forwards and backs, using his footwork and handling to keep attacking phases alive. Playing his rugby in South Africa, he fits the mould of the modern eight, equally comfortable taking the ball off the back of a dominant scrum or hitting rucks in the wider channels. The challenge for a forward of his profile is converting raw power and promise into the consistency and game management that mark out a first-choice back-rower. For now, Beukes remains a developing physical presence in the Bulls' pack, one whose carrying threat gives his side valuable go-forward momentum.