'Major statement of intent': Bulls secure double Springbok deal

South Africa internationals Jan-Hendrik Wessels and Cameron Hanekom have signed new deals at the club, running until 2028.

The pair have spent their entire careers to date at Loftus Versfeld, and will remain there at least for the next two-and-a-half years.

The versatile Wessels, capable of playing hooker and loosehead prop, has established himself as one of Rassie Erasmus’ frontline players for the Springboks this year. The 24-year-old is currently out of action, serving a nine-game ban for a genital grab against Connacht last month.

The one-cap Springbok Hanekom, 23, is also sidelined as he continues to recover from a hamstring injury sustained in the United Rugby Championship semi-final last season.

The back-row has returned to light training, and is expected to make his return to action in December, as will Wessels, whose ban will end in time for the final match of the year.

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“There’s unfinished business here, and I’m determined to help the Vodacom Bulls achieve their goals and to make every supporter proud,” said Hanekom. “To wear this jersey is a massive honour but to keep wearing it till 2028 is a dream come true.”

Bulls chief executive Edgar Rathbone added: “We pride ourselves on being a club where champions are made, and the decision by Jan-Hendrik and Cameron to extend their contracts is a massive vote of confidence in the Vodacom Bulls family.

“Retaining players of the calibre of this pair is a major statement of intent. Jan-Hendrik is a unique talent with his front-row versatility, and Cameron is an explosive athlete who will be back to his best very soon. They represent the high-quality, long-term investments we are making to ensure we consistently challenge for titles.”

The Bulls are currently sitting in sixth place in the URC with three wins from their opening five games. They will resume their campaign at the end of the month against the Lions.