Stormers coach Rassie Erasmus has resisted the temptation to exclude Luke Watson from his line-up for Saturday's crucial Super 14 encounter against the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld.

Erasmus previously said that he wanted to rotate his back row for the South African derby and such a move would also have shielded Watson from a potential 'hostile' reception at Loftus, following his comments at a rugby event last year.

With Schalk Burger struggling with a calf injury and still doubtful for the clash Erasmus had no choice but to include Watson as he would be the most natural replacement due to his ability at the breakdown.

While Erasmus admitted Watson could be a potential 'target' on Saturday, for the Bulls and their supporters, he stressed that it is something he has no control over.

"I understand the big hype around it but fortunately or unfortunately I have no control over it," Erasmus told this website on Wednesday.

"We believe in all 22 players and that every player in the squad is equal. As a coach we only prepare a team to win a game and we can't worry about what people outside are saying.

If Burger pulls out Francois Louw will start at No 6 with UCT?s Tiger Bax coming onto the bench.

"Schalk is still not 100 percent but we'll make a call on Friday to see if he can pass the fitness test," Erasmus said ahead of the crucial forward battle.

"Tiger will come in and cover for Percy Montgomery, if Schalk sits out, as we are confident we have enough loose- forward cover in Schalk Brits and Nick Koster," Erasmus explained.

Brian Mujati has recovered from his neck problem but JD Moller?s shoulder injury has ruled him out of the match with Wicus Blaauw coming in as replacement.

Veteran utility forward AJ Venter will start in place of Adriaan Fondse at lock while Willem De Waal gets a chance at flyhalf.

Nick Koster also returns to the staring XV in place of Sireli Naqelevuki which, along with De Waal's inclusion, is a clear indication that Erasmus is preparing for an aerial assault at Loftus.

"Everybody knows the Bulls will kick the ball a lot, but Willem is well equipped to do just that," he said.

"I'm sure Nick will also be tested but I am confident that he can stand up to the challenge."