Olivier to be a Black Ram

The Bulls have finally confirmed one of South African rugby's worst kept secrets - Wynand Olivier will join Japanese club Ricoh Black Rams at the end of the Super Rugby season.

The experienced centre played his 100th match for the  Bulls two weeks ago, will return from Japan in February 2013 and will again be available to play for the Bulls in the 2013 Super Rugby campaign.

"We have decided to release Wynand from his Currie Cup duties for this period and allow him to play for the Black Rams in their Top League and Japanese Cup competitions. We believe this is a win-win situation for Wynand, the Bulls and the Rams," Bulls CEO Barend van Graan said.

"Wynand has been a very loyal servant to the Bulls and Blue Bulls and has played in all our teams since school. We were happy to accommodate his request for a release as we appreciate his commitment to the Bulls over many years of service."

Last season the Ricoh Black Rams contracted All Blacks stalwart Ma'a Nonu, who later returned to New Zealand to join the Blues for Super Rugby.