Jake White's Bulls sign Lions centre Simelane

The Bulls have confirmed that they have signed utility back Wandisile Simelane from the Lions.

The former SA under-18 and Junior Springbok has signed a two-year contract that will keep him at Loftus Versfeld till 2024.

The 24-year-old is a versatile player who is equally skilled at centre, fullback, and the wing and will give the Vodacom Bulls team more depth outside.

Prior to carving out an exciting senior career for the Emirates Lions in the United Rugby Championship, Vodacom Super Rugby, Guinness PRO14 Rainbow Cup, and Carling Currie Cup between 2018 and this year, Simelane played all of his youth rugby between 2011 and 2019 for the Golden Lions Rugby Union.

The former Jeppe High School and twice SA under-20 star is widely regarded as one of the most exciting talents in South African rugby.

“It has been widely reported that there has been widespread interest for the services of Wandile Simelane from across the globe. That speaks to the talent and value that he has as a player. We are very happy to have added him to our squad at the Vodacom Bulls,” said Bulls director of rugby, Jake White. “Wandi’s talent and what he brings to any team needs no explanation – his efforts on the field speak for themselves.

"We are certain that he will add a different dynamic to our backline and will fit in perfectly to how we want to play. We look forward to seeing what he will do in the blue jersey in the upcoming season and next few years at Loftus. It is also an added bonus that his versatility can see him slot in at fullback, wing and centre.”

Simelane arrival comes hot on the heels of the signing of loose-forwards Mihlali Mosi and Phumzile Maqondwana, as well as earlier recruitments Sbu Nkosi, Ruan Vermaak and Dylan Smith.