Vodacom Bulls boss Jake White has opened up about his battle with Covid-19 and the friends he lost to the virus.

Speaking at the Bulls’ squad announcement on Monday, White admitted he was one of the people within the team set-up who was infected when there was a Covid-19 outbreak at Loftus three weeks ago – revealing how his personal battle with the virus changed his perspective on life.

‘The virus certainly struck me down,’ White said. ‘I was definitely in bed for a few days and gained a lot of perspective again on life in general.’

During his recovery in isolation, White had also received the news that two of his close friends – including Arthob Petersen, who was the Springboks’ team manager during White’s tenure as head coach – both passed away due to Covid-19-related illnesses.

‘I lost friends during this period. Not that we underestimated this pandemic, but I realised again that this virus is serious.

‘That’s what I mean with getting some perspective during my off-time. I just realised again that we’re also so lucky and privileged to do what we enjoy. I’ve really tried to return to the team with the renewed objective of having fun.’

Despite the life-changing challenges of the past few weeks, White says he is ready and excited for what lies ahead for him and his team.

‘I’ve returned and I want to show everyone that I’m healthy, psyched and recharged.

‘There are about 20 days left of this Currie Cup campaign and we have the opportunity to play at Loftus on three occasions during that period. I’m hoping my energy can inspire everyone around me.’

Photo: Shaun Roy/Gallo Images