PRETORIA – The Blue Bulls on Wednesday announced the signing of Blitzbok speedster Rosko Specman until 2020.
Edgar Marutlulle, Johan Grobbelaar, Divan Rossouw and Franco Naude have also recommitted themselves to the Bulls for a further two seasons.
The 29-year-old Specman boasts several seasons as a standout member of the BlitzBoks where he racked up 138 matches and scored 63 tries for the national sevens team.
The two-time World Rugby Sevens series winner is equally experienced in the 15-man game on the wing where he represented the Sharks XV (Vodacom Cup); Sharks, Pumas, Free State Cheetahs (Currie Cup) and the Cheetahs in the Pro14 before making his move to Pretoria.
Rosko Specman in action for the Blitzboks against Spain at the Sydney 7s. Photo: KLC for www.worldrugby.org
Xander Janse van Rensburg, Bulls high performance manager, believes that the latest signings bode well for the franchise as they look to prepare for a season where they want to be serious contenders.
“Specman is definitely a quality signing for us and we look forward to his contributions at Loftus Versfeld as we start our preparations for next season,” said Janse van Rensburg.
“His experience and 'x-factor' will be invaluable and we are excited to see him making his mark in blue. He, however, now has a vital role to still play for the BlitzBoks and we wish him well there and look forward to welcoming him in January 2019.
Rosko Specman 's swansong for the Blitzboks may be at the Dubai or Cape Town Sevens. Photo: David Moir/EPA
“We are also pleased that the players already in our system are opting to recommit, this shows their belief in remaining part of the Bulls family. Their contributions are pivotal in building a strong squad as we have to find the balance between experience and tomorrow’s stars. With our depth, experience and quality I do believe we have what it takes to be title contenders,” he explained.