Bulls Secure Future as Springboks Hanekom and Wessels Recommit Until 2028

Two of the Vodacom Bulls’ brightest young stars, Jan-Hendrik Wessels and Cameron Hanekom, have pledged their futures to the Pretoria-based franchise, signing new deals that will keep them at Loftus Versfeld until the end of 2028.

Building The Bulls’ Next Generation

The Bulls have long prided themselves on being a breeding ground for South African rugby talent, and this double re-signing underscores that legacy. Both players began their professional careers at the franchise as teenagers, and their journeys have mirrored the Bulls’ resurgence in domestic and international competitions.

Hanekom, who made his Springbok debut in November 2024, quickly became a fan favourite for his explosive play and physical presence at the back of the scrum. Despite a recent hamstring injury, his recovery is well underway, and he’s already back in light training.

“There’s unfinished business here,” Hanekom said. “To wear this jersey is an honour, and to keep doing it until 2028 is a dream come true. I’m determined to help the Bulls achieve their goals and make every supporter proud.”

Wessels: The Front-Row Hybrid

Source: Bulls Rugby on X

Wessels, who has earned nine Test caps since his Bok debut, has been lauded for his rare versatility equally comfortable at hooker and loosehead. His technical skill, combined with raw physical power, has made him a cornerstone of the Bulls’ forward pack and a crucial asset in their United Rugby Championship (URC) and Investec Champions Cup campaigns.

A Statement Of Intent From The Capital

Bulls CEO Edgar Rathbone described the extensions as a “massive vote of confidence” in the franchise’s vision for sustained success.

“Retaining players of this calibre is a major statement of intent,” Rathbone said. “Jan-Hendrik is a unique talent with front-row versatility, and Cameron is an explosive athlete who will soon be back to his best. They represent the kind of long-term investment that keeps us competitive at the highest level.”

Fan Reaction: “The Future Is Bright”

Bulls supporters have taken to social media to celebrate the announcement, calling it “the best rugby news of the week” and praising the franchise for keeping its young stars local. Some fans highlighted the importance of stability ahead of another demanding URC season, noting that continuity in the squad could be key to dethroning European powerhouses.

Pretoria’s Pride

For Bulls faithful, the re-signings of Hanekom and Wessels are more than contract extensions they’re a promise of continuity, grit, and ambition. As the Pretoria giants aim to reclaim URC dominance and make deeper runs in Europe, securing their Springbok duo until 2028 signals that the capital’s rugby powerhouse is building not just for this season, but for the next era of South African excellence.

For more rugby news and updates follow: SA Rugbymag

{Source:SuperSport }

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