Former DHL Stormers lock Cobus Wiese has confirmed that he will be returning to South Africa when he joins the Vodacom Bulls next season.
The 26-year-old lock, who is also comfortable at blindside flank, moved to Manchester-based Sale Sharks in 2020 after starting his professional career at the DHL Stormers.
In an interview with Sunday newspaper Rapport, Wiese expressed his excitement at the prospect of joining Jake White’s project at the Vodacom Bulls.
“I really want to believe that returning to South Africa now is the best for my career. It’s great to get this opportunity with the Bulls, they’re building something special,” Wiese said.
“South African rugby is in an incredible place. They are not only competitive, but largely dominate. It’s different from when I left South Africa in 2020. I think there are incredible opportunities for players who want to return from overseas.”
Family is also a strong motivator for Wiese’s return to South Africa, as he wants his daughter to experience growing up in the country.
“In June we were blessed with a baby girl. She is now about six months old,” Wiese explained.
“She only met my father after six months. It’s important for us to be close to family. We want to give the family the chance to be close enough to visit.
“One always thinks the grass is greener on the other side. But after four years out of your country, you not only miss your family, but also the weather and the people.
“I can’t tell you how excited I am to return to South Africa.”
Wiese, the younger brother of Springbok No 8 Jasper, will add to a strong contingent of forwards at the Vodacom Bulls, with lock Sintu Manjezi also set to return to Loftus Versfeld.
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