The Vodacom Bulls join South African rivals Cell C Sharks and DHL Stormers in making their first appearances in EPCR’s elite competition this season.

“Obviously this is a competition you want to play in,” explained the Springboks flyer. “We know it's a very physical competition, but we pride ourselves on being a physical team. We're really looking forward to it and can’t wait to start it off.

“We like to be competitive, so we want to play in this competition. I know it’s going to be a massive one. But we have got to focus on ourselves and take it from there.”

Arendse believes the Vodacom Bulls are well prepared for their Pool A matches against the TOP 14 team and Exeter Chiefs, having developed their game this season and added more strings to their bow.

“I think we’ve changed our game plan a bit,” he said. “Usually, we keep the ball away, but now we're focusing on attacking a bit more. I think we will have a running game and I'm looking forward to it.”

Vodacom Bulls wing Kurt-Lee Arendse “can’t wait” for the South African side’s Heineken Champions Cup debut at home to Lyon on Saturday.