Gelant and Papier put pen to paper for Bulls

The Bulls’ exciting young backline duo Warrick Gelant and Embrose Papier have turned down offers from the Stormers, further committing to the Pretoria franchise.

Papier and Gelant pledged their commitment by penning contract extensions that will see Papier remain until 2021 and gelling 2020.

It was reported that the pair declined offers from the Stormers, who recently expressed interest.

Other players extending their contracts with the Bulls include prop Conraad van Vuuren, centre/wing Johnny Kotze, lock Ruan Nortje and prop Mornay Smith (All until 2020).

The franchise also signed current Junior Springbok prop Alulutho Tshakweni, formerly at EP, until the end of the season.

High performance manager Xander Janse van Rensburg said “We are very happy about the extended contracts signed by Embrose and Warrick. It is fitting that they became Springboks with us and that they will remain Bulls players as their international careers take off. It is great to have a number of experienced international players in your squad and this will help in our goal to build a squad that can win the Super Rugby title again.”

“It is always a good feeling and a true reflection of what is brewing within the walls of Loftus, when your star players see their future with this union.”

He went on to say “Johnny and Conraad were great for us this year showing their true worth at Super Rugby level, and they will continue to develop and grow here, while Ruan and Mornay are amongst the most talented youngsters I have seen in recent seasons, so it is great to have them around for the foreseeable future.”

Gelant expressed his contentedness in Pretoria, saying “It’s an exciting time to be part of this team. There’s something special happening at Loftus, and I’m looking forward to remaining a part of it. I am privileged to play the game I love, with the people I consider close to my heart, and more importantly for the fans that give us this opportunity to live our dreams.”

Utility back Ulrich Beyers was released to the Southern Kings with immediate effect and loose forward Abongile Nonkontwana is on trial with the Free State Cheetahs.

The union released a press statement saying “The Bulls family would like to wish these two gentlemen everything of the best with the next steps of their careers, and sincerely thanks them for their contributions to the brand,”