AUDIO: 'Why I chose Bulls over foreign markets'
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Hooker Johan Grobbelaar committed to the Bulls, predicting the franchise will soon secure some silverware.
The Bulls resume their United Rugby Championship campaign on Saturday when they host table-topping Glasgow Warriors in Round 16.
It will be a stern test for the Bulls, who are fourth on the URC table with 51 points and six points clear of fifth-placed Stormers.
The Pretoria-based franchise hit a slight rough patch, losing to Leinster (14-47 in Dublin) and Munster (22-27 at Loftus).
However, they got their campaign back on track with a masterclass display against Ospreys.
Going into the season’s last three league matches before the play-offs, there is no doubt that the Bulls are determined to book a top-four spot and finally get a chance to lock in their maiden URC title.
The latest player to buy into the common goal is Johan Grobberlaar.
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Grobbies – as he is affectionately known at Loftus – signed a new three-year deal and will remain at the Bulls until June 2027.
“I am looking forward to the next three years because the extension was an easy decision for me when you look at the talent we have in the squad and the exceptional coaches, management and great sponsors; this is a great franchise to play at,” Grobberlaar said.
“We do have some unfinished business.
“We are close to winning major trophies. The next few seasons will be massive.”
The 26-year-old admitted the lure of plying your trade abroad is massive, especially for a young South African player.
However, he is very content with the Bulls.
“The game worldwide is growing every year.
“Massive industries in Europe, the UK, Japan and other countries like the USA give young rugby players great opportunities, so I understand why people take those.
“You get to experience other cultures, play in different environments and with other players.
“But for me, I’m still very happy to play in South Africa for a few more years.
“We have great people, great conditions, great weather and the passionate fans is always a big positive for us.”
The former junior Springbok has notched up 123 club appearances ever since making his debut with the under-19’s back in 2016. A century (103) of those appearances has been in senior competitions as Grobbelaar has grown and evolved into being one of Loftus’ loved and revered players.
“I have been here for nine years and have had some great experiences and memorable highlights since arriving in 2016.
“Some great wins, some great tours, winning trophies, a cup here and there but the biggest highlight for me was earlier this year where – for the first time since I arrived – we managed to fill up Loftus, having all the support every weekend and the amazing support from our fans.”
