The Vodacom Bulls released two Media Releases today, the first dealing with their weekly fitness update and the second announcing some interesting loose forward signings to counter the two long term injuries of Pierre Spies (6 months) and Arno Botha (5 months to go).

Deon Stegmann is fit again and training with the team this week.

Wimpie van der Walt, who played for the Southern Kings in Super Rugby in 2013 and who now plies his trade in Japan, will join the Bulls for 2 months with options for him to stay on longer and negotiations with Dewald Potgieter who also plies his trade in Japan is in advanced stages.

Fitness Update:

Deon Stegmann has been declared fit and available for selection ahead of the Vodacom Bulls’ match against the Blues at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday.

Stegmann suffered a groin strain early in the Vodacom Bulls’ warm-up match against the Stormers late January in Polokwane and was kept on the sidelines while he recovered.

Stegmann will take full part in the full Bulls training session this week, team doctor Org Strauss said on Monday.

Not so for Jono Ross (contusion quad) or Frik Kirsten (back) will not train though, with Kirsten also sitting out tomorrow’s scrum session.

Jessie Kriel (calf) and Travis Ismaiel (hip) will also join the rest of the squad on Tuesday.

Pierre Spies (arm, 6 months) and Arno Botha (knee, 5 months) are the only two long term casualties.

Wimpie van der Walt & Dewald Potgieter:

The Blue Bulls Company (Pty) Ltd on Monday confirmed that NNT Docomo loose forward, Wimpie van der Walt, signed a short term contract with them.

The 25 year old player, who represented the Southern Kings in the Vodacom Super Rugby tournament in 2013, will join the Vodacom Bulls on a two month loan contract.

According to the BBC’s High Performance Manager, Xander Janse van Rensburg, the contract could be extended, depending on Van der Walt’s performances and fitness levels.

“It is no secret that injuries have ravaged our loose forward stock and we are quite keen for Wimpie to join us as soon as possible. He had a stellar season with the Kings last year and will not only add versatility, but also depth to our squad.”

Janse van Rensburg also confirmed that former Vodacom Bulls player and captain, Dewald Potgieter, could join Van der Walt this week as negotiations on his availability are in an advanced stage.

Potgieter plays for the Japanese club Yamaha Jubilo and could join the team  till after the completion of the Vodacom Bulls pool stage phase.  He then has to return for his pre – season with the Japanese club in July.

“We are hopeful that Dewald can join us. He is used to our structures and will fit in immediately,” Janse Van Rensburg said.