CONFIRMED: Bulls to lose their captain

TRANSFER NEWS: Japanese club Kobe Steelers have confirmed that Springbok flank and Bulls captain Marcell Coetzee will be joining them for the upcoming Japan League One season.

Earlier this year there were reports that the 31-year-old was in negotiations with the Bulls to extend his contract to 2026, which included a stint in Japan as part of the deal.

The Japanese club mentioned that Coetzee will be a new addition for the "2022/2023 season". More details on Coetzee's move are expected from the Pretoria franchise.

The Japan League One fixtures run from December 17 to April 23 with the play-offs to follow after that.

Coetzee joined the Bulls from Ulster in 2021. Before that, he had a stint in Japan between 2015 and 2016 with Honda Heat.

He was previously with the Sharks between 2011 and 2016.

"I am looking forward to playing in League One as a member of the Kobelco Kobe Steelers and meeting the fans at the stadium," said Coetzee.

"I will do everything in my power to help the Kobe Steelers win the championship.

"My family and I are looking forward to new life and new encounters in Japan."

Coetzee is currently with the Bulls squad that departed for Europe on Monday for a three-match tour in the United Rugby Championship.