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Bulls lose highly-rated South Africa U20 lock Van Heerden to Super Rugby rivals

By Online Editors
Ruben van Heerden playing for Bulls in Super Rugby. (Photo by Johan Rynners/Gallo Images)

The Bulls are losing their South African Under 20 lock Ruben van Heerden to Super Rugby rivals the Sharks.

The announcement came shortly after the departure of head coach John Mitchell, who is taking over as defence coach with England. It capped a disappointing day for the Bulls, who have now lost one of their most promising prospects.

20-year-old Van Heerden has signed a three-year contract with the Sharks.

Last year was a breakthrough year for the 116kg lock, who not only represented the Under 20's, but he also made his Super Rugby debut.

Confirming his signing, Sharks Head Coach Robert du Preez said: “Ruben is a talented young lock and a great acquisition for the Cell C Sharks. He is a natural athlete and has all the attributes needed to be a great lock.

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