The Vodacom Bulls added another seasoned player to the ranks of its long-term contract extensions when first choice scrumhalf Embrose Papier penned a new deal until 2027.
He joins a long list of players - including hookers Johan Grobbelaar and Jan-Hendrik Wessels, lock Ruan Vermaak, World Cup winner Marco van Staden, utility back David Kriel and SA under-20 lock JF van Heerden, who all have extended their contracts in recent times.
The signing spree, which added loose forwards Cameron Hanekom and Celimpilo Gumede to the list earlier in the year, will see him being able to add to the 52 appearances for the Bulls and 15 for the Blue Bulls in his stay at Loftus, while he also had 11 games for Sale Sharks as well.
Embrose Papier will remain part of the herd until 2027! 🐂🏆#BackTheBulls | #DefendTheHerd pic.twitter.com/nZR2ThLuVQ
— Official Blue Bulls (@BlueBullsRugby) May 30, 2024
The former Springbok, whose form puts him back into the picture for national selection, was also a SA schools and under-20 representative.
Papier says the capital feels like home and that has made his decision to extend an easy one.
“By now the capital city feels like home to me and the Bulls have been on my side since my first few years here, which is now just over 10 years ago - so I have a sense of loyalty to the club and have a lot to offer and give back to the team and the community this side.”
“The current squad has grown a lot together and every new player or younger player that joins can sense our passion and drive to do our best and succeed in every season, which then motivates them to do the same and also inspires me to keep on doing my best,”
“We have won a few trophies here at home and it is an indescribable feeling to do so in front of your home supporters and to see what our work and dedication mean to those who support us.”
Papier feels like there is still a lot for him to achieve at the Bulls.
“I feel like there is still a lot for me to achieve with this side, there are still a lot of trophies to be won and I look forward to doing this with the guys and the coaches, so I am looking forward to making those memories over the next coming seasons. We have the best supporters and to do it for them keeps me and the boys inspired, bring on the next three years.”
The Bulls have also confirmed the signings of Cobus Wiese from Sale Sharks and Sharks utility back Boeta Chamberlain for next season.