De Jager pens new SA Rugby, Bulls deal

Springbok lock Lood de Jager has signed a new contract which makes him available for the Bulls and South Africa until after the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan.

De Jager, who was crowned South Africa’s Player of the Year in 2015, was reportedly wanted by several European clubs after joining the Bulls on a one-year deal at the end of 2016.

But he has reportedly signed a new contract renewal on Friday with SA Rugby and the Bulls.

The 24-year-old lock said he was enjoying his time at the Pretoria-based franchise.

“I think we have something great here at the Bulls with a great young team, and hopefully we can build something special in the next couple of years,” De Jager told Supersport.

“Ja, and I want to continue to play for the Springboks. That’s a big passion of mine so ja, I’d love to continue to contribute to the Bulls and the Springboks for the next couple of years.”

De Jager admitted there were offers for him to join European clubs but said he was happy in South Africa.

“My intentions were never to leave,” he added.

“Initially I only signed for a year because that was the duration of my Springbok contract. Now with the new extension at the Springboks and the Bulls I’m really looking forward to the coming years.”

Bulls High Performance Manager Xander Janse van Rensburg confirmed De Jager’s new deal and said the Pretoria-based franchise were delighted to retain the Springbok’s services.

“We’re overjoyed that Lood has decided to extend his contract with us and the Springboks,” he said.

“It shows you that there are still players who choose South Africa and their passion for the Springboks over the big money offers from overseas.

“We want to thank SA Rugby for all their assistance in this matter and the professionalism they showed in dealing with Lood’s contract. Lood is a senior player in our ranks and we believe he will continue to play a major role in the future success of both the Vodacom Bulls and the Springboks.”