With the Sevens World Series on a break, Powell, has linked up with the Sharks where he will become the defence coach later in the year.

Everitt said that Powell will add a lot of value to their setup.

“First of all, Neil is a really good person. He's got strong values and that shows in the performance of the Blitzboks over the past several years, be it as a player or a coach.

“He brings in different ideas and that's great because we're always looking to improve.

“One of Neil's strengths is defence and that's why we appointed him a few months ago. The culture that the Blitzboks have developed is certainly admirable.

“They're definitely one of the most successful sporting teams on the planet at this very moment, having won 34 or 35 matches on the trot.

“We're strong on culture and performance here and we're hoping we can build on that by using Neil's experience.”

Powell will head back to the Blitzboks for the remainder of the season and the upcoming Sevens World Cup in Cape Town.

The Bulls host the Sharks on Saturday night at Loftus Versfeld in the United Rugby Championship. Kick-off is at 17:05, while at 15:00 the Lions host the Stormers at Ellis Park.

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport