The Vodacom Bulls will keep Marcell Coetzee in Pretoria for the next five years after the Springbok loose forward put pen to paper on a new long-term contract.

Coetzee will be unavailable for selection until the end of April 2023 as he heads to Japan on a six-month sabbatical, but has no other intentions but to return to Pretoria.

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The Bulls captain has signed fresh terms to continue to ply his trade with the Vodacom United Rugby Championship finalists until 2027.

“The weekend may have been my last match for the Vodacom Bulls, but I will return at the back end of April come 2023,” said Coetzee. “I missed my country a lot during my five years at Ulster, so I know I am coming back after this short journey.

“It was a no-brainer, I really love playing for the Vodacom Bulls. I believe we are on a path towards something special and one wants to be part of a team that is destined to hit their heights pretty soon. The side has a lovely bunch of guys.”

The Springbok flank initially joined the Bulls from Ulster in June 2021 on a three-year deal, quickly becoming a vital member of the squad, making 33 appearances in all competitions.

Coetzee’s impact since arriving at Loftus has been nothing short of impactful, helping lead the side to the final of the debut season of the URC.

“It is an honour to play for this team, “he said. “I am extremely happy with where I am with the Bulls, the staff and the team spirit we have built, that is where my heart is. My wife and I have definitely found a home in Pretoria and we cannot wait to see how further the team develops and how I can help in driving and contributing to its success in the future.”

Photo: Inpho Photography