The Bulls have made a crucial signing with the agreement of the extension of Celimpilo ‘Mpilo’ Gumede’s contract.
Gumede’s extension will see him call Loftus home until June 2028.
Springbok in waiting Celimpilo Gumede commits to the Bulls
Gumede started his career at the Sharks. He was first selected for Super Rugby in 2020.
However, it is at the Bulls where he has blossomed.
He has impressed during the URC and Champions Cup campaigns for the Bulls and caught the eye of Rassie Erasmus.
Gumede was called up to the Springboks alignment camp suggesting his strong form has put him in contention to don the Green and Gold.
He says he had no doubt that he wanted to extend his stay at Loftus because he has been in a good space since arriving at the capital.
“I had no doubt (in my mind) that I wanted to accept the offer because I have been in a good space since arriving in Pretoria and being with the Vodacom Bulls family. There is a lot that comes with it, good culture, and good people outside of rugby, for me it has been a huge blessing and opportunity to be with this team. I am really happy and I look forward to the future,” Gumede said according to Bulls Rugby.
The flanker said that he had been surprised by how friendly and welcoming people in Pretoria have been.
Speaking about his decision to extend his stay with the Bulls after only seven months with the herd, Gumede added: “The move wasn’t easy coming from Durban, I have to be honest.
“But I have to be honest, the people have been very friendly and I am adapting much quicker than I thought.
“We have great guys here and so it wasn’t hard for me to fit in, they are very open and welcoming,” he said.
“I am definitely having a great time.”
Jake White a key figure
Gumede was quick to praise Bulls Director of Rugby Jake White for the faith shown in him.
“Firstly I just want to thank coach Jake (White) and the rest of his coaching department for putting their faith and trust in me. They believed in me and have worked with me to help me become a better player already,” Gumede continued.
“In the coming years, I just want to improve my rugby, my game and be a better player and obviously I want to be a part of the teams that go on to win trophies for this franchise.”
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