Bulls snap up Springbok duo in impressive swoop

The Bulls have announced a double swoop after completing the signings of Lionel Mapoe and Ruan Combrinck, who join the club from July 1.

Springbok centre Mapoe will make a return to Loftus Versfeld in an exciting new arrival, as he returns to the Bulls from Top 14 giants Stade Francais.

The 32-year-old will add a wealth of experience to the side he turned out for in 2013. He has represented the Springboks in 14 Tests, while also having previously featured for the national Sevens, U20 and SA ‘A’ sides.

Mapoe’s professional career began at the Free State Cheetahs before moving to rivals across the Jukskei, where he represented the Golden Lions and amassed over 100 Super Rugby caps for the Lions.

Following a stint in Japan where he featured for the Kubota Spears, the hard-running centre has been plying his trade in France, representing Stade Francais since 2019.

Record speaks for itself

“We are pleased to have a player of Lionel’s calibre joining this exciting Bulls team. His record on the rugby field speaks for itself, and we have no doubt that his wealth of experience and expertise will be beneficial to the success of this team,” director of rugby Jake White told the Bulls’ website.

Also joining the Pretoria-based side is Bok wing Combrinck, with the 31-year-old speedster coming with a reputation of having a nous for scoring tries for South Africa, the Golden Lions, Lions and Stade Francais.

Combrinck’s arrival will not only add depth to the outside backs, but his experience since making his professional debut for Western Province in 2010 will be invaluable for the Bulls.

“Any team will be fortunate to acquire a gem like Ruan, who has proven his outstanding abilities over the years. His signing will add to the depth of this team, and we have no doubts that his on-field as well as his off-field capabilities will contribute to the Vodacom Bulls reaching greater heights,” said White.