Bok flyhalf headlines seven confirmed Bulls signings
TRANSFER NEWS: The Bulls have officially fired a massive warning shot to their rivals, confirming a high-profile recruitment drive to solidify their squad over the next three seasons.
In a consolidated announcement on Monday, the Pretoria-based franchise confirmed the acquisition of several top-tier talents and rising stars, following what the franchise described as a rigorous scouting and assessment process to bolster key positions.
The headline acquisition is Springbok flyhalf Curwin Bosch, who joins from France on a three-year deal starting in July.
He is joined by Thaakir Abrahams, who returns to South Africa from Munster on a two-year deal, offering options at wing and fullback.
The Bulls have also secured one of the country’s most exciting young prospects in 19-year-old Luan Giliomee.
Despite a standout United Rugby Championship debut at fullback for the Sharks earlier this year, Giliomee is a specialist flyhalf who signed a three-year deal.
His versatility provides significant depth in the pivot role.
Further strengthening the back three is former Junior Bok and Paarl Boys fullback star Hakeem Kunene (three years), alongside the arrival of wing Dylan Maart (via Griquas) and Pumas outside centre Sango Xamlashe (two years), both of whom will join the squad following the conclusion of the Currie Cup.
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The Bulls also secured the services of tighthead prop Mawande Mdanda.
The 132-kilogram tighthead prop, a Maritzburg College product, arrives from the Sharks in July on a two-year contract following the departure of Wilco Louw to the Stormers at the end of the season.
In a major long-term boost, the franchise earlier confirmed that former Junior Springbok captain Hanro Liebenberg will return to Pretoria ahead of the 2026/27 season on a three-year deal.
Blue Bulls Company CEO Edgar Rathbone emphasised that these signings are the result of a calculated strategy to keep the franchise competitive at the highest level.
“We have been very deliberate in our recruitment process, identifying specific areas where we felt we needed to bolster our depth and experience,” he said.
“Bringing in players of this calibre, ranging from proven match-winners to the most exciting young talent in the country, is a clear statement of our intent.
“We are building a squad capable of sustained success in both the Vodacom URC and Europe, and we are thrilled to welcome these men to the Loftus family.”
Additionally, junior to senior extensions were granted to Jean Erasmus (tighthead – three years), Heinrich Theron (lock – three years), JJ Theron (loose forward – two years), Pieter van der Merwe (centre – three years), and Demetri Erasmus (centre – three years).
