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Bulls Confirm Ruan Nortje’s Move to Japan at Season’s End

The move highlights Springbok locks heading abroad under a policy that still allows national selection.

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NELSPRUIT, SOUTH AFRICA - JULY 19: Ruan Nortje and Cobus Wiese of the Springboks during the 2025 Castle Lager Incoming Series match between South Africa and Georgia at Mbombela Stadium on July 19, 2025 in Nelspruit, South Africa. (Photo by Anton Geyser/Gallo Images)
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Overview

  • The Bulls, who announced the decision on Thursday, confirmed that Springbok lock Ruan Nortje will leave for a Japanese club after this season.
  • The 27-year-old had extended his deal through 2027 but received an early release, citing a choice centered on his wife and family.
  • A one-club stalwart since 2018, he sits on 146 Bulls appearances and could reach 150 if he plays the remaining fixtures, with Benetton in mid-May flagged as the likely milestone.
  • He has 18 Test caps and captained the Bulls 37 times, with coach Johan Ackermann and CEO Edgar Rathbone praising his leadership and backing the move.
  • The switch comes as fellow Bok lock Salmaan Moerat prepares for France, reflecting a broader outflow of South Africans overseas under a selection policy that keeps them eligible.