While all the focus is on the Springboks, the Vodacom Bulls announced two contract extensions that underlined their focus on becoming a force in world rugby again.
The Bulls on Wednesday announced that Springboks Jan-Hendrik Wessels and Cameron Hanekom both extended their contracts at the franchise until the end of the 2028 season, tying them into coach Johan Ackermann’s vision and giving the franchise an opportunity to tap their growth as players.
Wessels, who is currently serving an eight week ban for one of the most ridiculous citing complaints ever laid in a rugby environment, is seen as a key player for the Springboks going forward, as he can cover both loosehead prop and hooker and is invaluable in match situations for coaches. Bok coach Rassie Erasmus has recognised it, and the uptick in Wessels’ performances since being awarded his first Springbok cap shows that his future is very bright and he can become devastating as a forward for whatever side he plays.
STAYING PUT TILL 2028 😍 #TheUnbreakableLine pic.twitter.com/5h7ldCc2Hy
— Official Blue Bulls (@BlueBullsRugby) November 12, 2025
Hanekom has been the victim of some tough injuries, getting his first Bok cap against Wales last year after two bad injuries kept him out of the June tests. While he is plotting his comeback at the beginning of next month, the tough No 8 is keen to get himself back into the Bok squad and has been a revelation since the Bulls gave him his shot at the age of 21.
Hanekom has arguably been one of the standout players in every Vodacom United Rugby Championship season he has played and was likely a keen target for other teams in the competition given his physicality and workrate on the field.
“There’s unfinished business here, and I’m determined to help the Bulls achieve their goals and to make every supporter proud,” said Hanekom.
“To wear this jersey is a massive honour but to keep wearing it till 2028 is a dream come true.”
Bulls CEO Edgar Rathbone was understandably happy at keeping the two stars at Loftus Versfeld. “We pride ourselves on being a club where champions are made, and the decision by Jan-Hendrik and Cameron to extend their contracts is a massive vote of confidence in the Vodacom Bulls family.
"Retaining players of the calibre of this pair is a major statement of intent. Jan-Hendrik is a unique talent with his front-row versatility, and Cameron is an explosive athlete who will be back to his best very soon. They represent the high-quality, long-term investments we are making to ensure we consistently challenge for titles.”
The signings may seem like routine announcements, but the intent behind this is for a Bulls squad to retain the stars they developed in an intense competitive environment where big money often lures players away.
And by backing their own, they send a message not only of intent for the season, but of their ambitions going forward.
