Springbok loose forward Nizaam Carr has completed a return to the Vodacom Bulls on a two-year deal that runs through until 2024.
The vastly experienced Carr returns with an impressive arsenal of skills and experience, having made more than 245 senior club appearances with an additional five Test caps for the Springboks.
The 31-year-old joins the Bulls on the back of another successful stint with the Wasps, for whom he made a total of 74 appearances, scoring 15 tries during his multi-season stay with the English Premiership side. The loose forward has enjoyed a fruitful time in the United Kingdom, having first spent an explosive loan spell at Wasps in 2017 when he dotted down four tries in his 11 appearances for the club.
The Bishops School alumni made his early career inroads through the Western Province junior ranks, representing Province at the 2009 Craven Week. Soon after graduating to the SA U20 side, he made four appearances (scoring two tries) during the 2011 Junior World Championship.
He has also featured for the SA A and Springbok XV sides, bringing his tally of games for South Africa to 12.
Carr is no forgotten friend to the Loftus faithful, having last run out in the daisy-draped blue jersey in the PRO14 Rainbow Cup final, in June 2021.
Speaking on his return to Loftus, Carr said: “I have obviously had a few offers but what came to mind for me was the culture at the Vodacom Bulls, and the obvious quality of coaches that really have made me feel welcome already. Because I have worked with the Bulls, I was comfortable and confident in making the decision because I know what I am going to work with, so this is a full circle moment for me.”
“The Vodacom Bulls have incredible, quality coaches and I know from my own experience, having worked with Jake White a season or so ago; he made me a better player in how I approach a lot of situations. I know he gives a lot of the boys belief when they are on the field, watching how they play with so much belief and confidence, that is because of Jake.
“Who wouldn’t want to work with such a great coach? So, to be involved with his set-up again, be part of a mindset that is brilliant is exciting, I am really happy to be here again,”
Carr has set his eyes on the prize, commenting: “Any team partaking in this competition wants to bring silverware home and, for me, it is no different, I am coming with a lot of ambition. Winning the United Rugby Championship is a box I want to tick and I will do my best to help bring back the United Rugby Championship trophy to Pretoria.
“I am equally excited to come home and make our collective dream a reality. It is also exciting to be reunited with the boys again, a team that really looks to help you become better, a cool bunch to be part of,” he concluded.
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