Talented young utility back Luan Giliomee is on his way to Pretoria. The 19-year-old will join the Bulls this week, even though he started the Sharks’ first two United Rugby Championship games of the season.
How the Move Came About
Giliomee had already signed a three-year contract with the Bulls, and he was originally due to arrive in December. That date has now been brought forward, and he is expected to report for training in Pretoria this week.
Instead of making him see out his Sharks contract, the two franchises agreed to an immediate release. In return, the Sharks have landed Esethu Mnebelele, the former Junior Springbok captain and highly rated young hooker, from the Bulls.
The deal is likely to split opinion. Durban supporters will be sad to lose a youngster who made such a bright start to the campaign, while Bulls fans will be delighted to welcome him.
A Bright Finish in Durban
Giliomee’s time at the Sharks ended on a high. He was named Man of the Match in the Sharks’ opening-round URC win over the Ospreys, a performance that showed what he is capable of.
Ackermann Excited by His “X Factor”
Bulls coach Johan Ackermann told Rapport the club is eager to bring him into the squad. He described Giliomee as a player with plenty of X factor who reads the game well and has already shown he can cover two positions. Ackermann sees him as a No 10 or a 15 who will provide good competition for the current players.
For a young player, Ackermann said, it is the ideal chance to learn from Handré Pollard and Willie le Roux while adding his own flavour.
Bulls’ Mixed Start
Giliomee joins a team that has had a mixed opening to the season. The Bulls collected six points from their two-game tour. They began with a dominant seven-try bonus-point win over Zebre in Parma, then lost 26-22 to Munster on Saturday, though they secured a late losing bonus point.
Is this a good move for Giliomee, or should he have stayed in Durban? Tell us in the comments.
