Bulls bolster backline stocks with Kunene and Maart reinforcements

The first of which is Sharks fullback Hakeem Kunene, who will bolster their stocks at 15 as Willie le Roux's career draws closer to an end.

Le Roux is contracted to the Bulls through to the end of next season, when it is expected that he will hang up his boots. The 35-year-old remains a key cog in the Bulls backline, and Kunene's arrival next season will allow the former Junior Bok to settle in Pretoria under the Bok great's guidance.

Kunene's move comes off the back of both the Sharks and Bulls missing out on the signing of Quan Horn, who turned down the advances of both unions in favour of remaining with the Lions. The Sharks have since announced the signing of Gianni Lombard from the Lions, who will offer the Durban-based side an option at fly-half and full-back.

With Aphelele Fassi the first-choice number 15 at the Sharks and Gianni Lombard arriving from the Lions next season, Kunene is likely to get more minutes at the Bulls, where he will be contending with Le Roux and Devon Williams for gametime.

Additionally, the Bulls have also reportedly landed the signature of Griquas and Stormers winger Dylan Maart, who will join the side after this year's Currie Cup campaign. His arrival in Pretoria is a timely one, with Kurt-Lee Arendse set to leave Loftus for a return to Japan.

The 29-year-old has scored five tries in seven appearances while on loan with the Stormers in the United Rugby Championship and Investec Champions Cup as part of a development agreement between the Stormers and Griquas.

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