Bulls Could Be Without Arendse For Longer Than Expected, While Lions Have Softer End To Their Urc Campaign

The Bulls have been counting on having Springbok star Kurt-Lee Arendse back from Japan for their big push for glory in the United Rugby Championship, but reports say the wing is in no hurry to return.

The Bulls are handily placed on the URC log third, and with four rounds to go, they are aiming to overtake the current second-placed team, the Warriors. That would secure them a home quarter-final and possibly a home semi-final.

Reports at the weekend suggested that Arendse loves rugby in Japan and wants to make his stay permanent. The Bulls granted the 28-year-old a sabbatical, but he wants more.

The 28-year-old has asked for an early release from his Bulls contract, which ends in 2026. The Bok flyer joined the Sagamihara DynaBoars in December and has made a huge impact in the Japanese league. He has scored seven tries in 12 matches.

If the Bulls grant Arendse his wish, he would be lost to the closing stages of the Bulls URC campaign and the next time he plays in South Africa will be for the Springboks. The Boks kick off their international season in late June.