Stormers heavy to Bulls

The Bulls have turned to the Stormers to bolster their tighthead prop stocks due to a mini injury crisis.

Rapport reports that veteran tighthead Hencus van Wyk set to join Johan Ackermann’s squad for at least October. The 34-year-old will provide cover at Loftus Versfeld after injuries to Mornay Smith and Mawande Mdanda left the Bulls short of options in the position. Both players are expected to return in December.

Van Wyk’s arrival comes as the Bulls adjust to life without Wilco Louw, who has returned to the Stormers after representing the Pretoria side since 2020.

MORE: Sharks could tear up Bok’s contract

The experienced prop joined the Stormers about a year ago after Springbok Frans Malherbe was injured. Malherbe is expected to make a final decision early next year on whether he will return to rugby.

The Stormers have sufficient depth to cope without Van Wyk, with Louw, Neethling Fouché, Zachary Porthen and Sazi Sandi among their tighthead options.

Van Wyk began his senior career with the Bulls in 2011 and remained at Loftus until 2016. He has since represented several teams, including the Lions, Sunwolves, Cheetahs and San Diego Legion.

ACKERS: Bulls showed their steel

The move also comes ahead of a longer-term change between the two unions, with Sandi set to join the Bulls when his Stormers contract expires in June next year. According to Rapport, he has already signed a long-term deal with Ackermann’s side.

FULL STORY

Photo: Grant Pitcher/Gallo Images