The Bulls have announced that Springboks Embrose Papier and Warrick Gelant have pledged their commitment to the union by signing contract extensions.
The Pretoria-based outfit announced that Papier, a debutant for the Springboks in 2018, has signed on until 2021, while Gelant, widely regarded as one of the most exciting full-backs in world rugby, will continue representing the Bulls until at least 2020.
Both players declined offers from the Stormers and will continue their futures in the province where they made their Currie Cup, Super Rugby and Springboks debuts.
The two extended contracts are but a number of leading players who on Monday signed new deals. Conraad van Vuuren (2020) and Johnny Kotze (2020) starred for the Bulls in Super Rugby this year and will continue to do so, while Junior Springboks, Ruan Nortje and Mornay Smith did the same.
Nortje (2020), who played for the Junior Boks this year, made his Super Rugby and Currie Cup debuts as well this year, with Smith (2020) representing the Bulls for the first time as well.
The signing of current Junior Springboks prop, Alulutho Tshakweni, will further boost the ranks. The Eastern Province player has signed until the end of the season.
“We are very happy about the extended contracts signed by Embrose and Warrick,” said Bulls high performance manager, Xander Janse van Rensburg.
“It is fitting that they became Springboks with us and that they will remain Vodacom Bulls players as their international careers takes off. It is great to have a number of experienced international players in your squad and this will help in our goal to build a squad that can win the Vodacom Super Rugby title again.
“It is always a good feeling and a true reflection of what is brewing within the walls of Loftus, when your star players see their future with this union.
“Johnny and Conraad were great for us this year showing their true worth at Super Rugby level, and they will continue to develop and grow here, while Ruan and Mornay are amongst the most talented youngsters I have seen in recent seasons, so it is great to have them around for the foreseeable future.”
Gelant said on staying at Loftus: “It’s an exciting time to be part of this team. There’s something special happening at Loftus, and I’m looking forward to remaining a part of it.
“I am privileged to play the game I love, with the people I consider close to my heart, and more importantly for the fans that give us this opportunity to live our dreams.”
The BBC also confirmed that utility player, Ulrich Beyers, was released to the Isuzu Southern Kings with immediate effect, while Abongile Nonkontwana is on trial with the Toyota Free State Cheetahs.