The Vodacom Bulls have officially fired a massive warning shot to their rivals, confirming a high-profile recruitment drive aimed at fortifying their squad for the next three seasons.
In a consolidated announcement today, 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 former Springbok flyhalf Curwin Bosch, who joins from France on a three-year deal starting in July. Bosch brings elite tactical kicking and goal-kicking pedigree to Loftus Versfeld. He is joined by the electric Thaakir Abrahams, who returns to South Africa from Munster on a two-year deal, offering lethal finishing options at wing and fullback.
Thaakir Abrahams
The Vodacom Bulls have also secured one of the country’s most exciting young prospects in 19-year-old Luan Giliomee. Despite a standout Vodacom URC debut at fullback for the Sharks earlier this year, Giliomee is a specialist flyhalf who signed a three-year deal. His versatility and composure are expected to provide significant depth in the pivot role.
Luan Giliomee
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.
Hakeem Kunene
The Bulls’ commitment to physical dominance is evident in the signing of Mawande Mdanda. The 132kg tighthead prop, a Maritzburg College product, arrives from the Sharks in July on a two-year contract to add significant weight and power to the front row.
Mawande Mdanda
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. Liebenberg’s leadership and proven work rate in the loose trio are seen as a cornerstone for the Vodacom Bulls’ future championship aspirations.
Sango Xamlashe
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.”
Dylan Maart
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 vd Merwe (centre – three years), Demetri Erasmus (centre – three years).
