Stormers lose veteran prop to Bulls as Loftus injury crisis deepens

• The Bulls have turned to a familiar face from Cape Town as injuries leave Johan Ackermann searching for front-row reinforcements
• A temporary move to Pretoria brings an experienced campaigner back to a club where his professional career began
• The latest switch also adds another twist to the Stormers and Bulls' ongoing battle over tighthead prop depth

The Bulls are set to bring Stormers veteran Hencus van Wyk back to Loftus Versfeld on a short-term arrangement after injuries left their tighthead prop department depleted. The move is expected to cover October as Johan Ackermann's side navigates a difficult spell with limited options in the front row.

SA Rugby Magazine reported the development on 11 October 2026, citing Rapport.

Bulls turn to Stormers for tighthead prop cover

Van Wyk, 34, is expected to provide temporary reinforcement following injuries to Mornay Smith and Mawande Mdanda. Both props are reportedly expected to return in December.

The Bulls are also adjusting to the departure of Wilco Louw, who has represented the Pretoria-based side since 2020, before returning to the Stormers.

Van Wyk is no stranger to Loftus. He began his senior career with the Bulls in 2011 and stayed until 2016 before moving to other teams.

Hencus van Wyk brings experience to Pretoria

The tighthead prop joined the Stormers a year ago after Springbok Frans Malherbe suffered an injury. Malherbe's future in rugby remains uncertain, with a final decision on a possible return expected early in 2027.

Van Wyk has also represented the Lions, Sunwolves, Cheetahs and San Diego Legion during his career.

Stormers retain tighthead depth

The Stormers have several options to cover Van Wyk's temporary absence, including Louw, Neethling Fouché, Zachary Porthen and Sazi Sandi.

However, Sandi is reportedly set to join the Bulls when his Stormers contract expires in June 2027, having allegedly signed a long-term deal with the Pretoria club.

For now, Van Wyk's expected October stint gives the Bulls an experienced option while their injured props recover. The longer-term movement of tightheads between the two franchises could also shape their forward resources next season.

Stormers lose another young talent to a South African rival

Briefly News also reported that the Stormers had lost Junior World Champion Dominic Malgas to the Cheetahs after the 21-year-old impressed during the 2026 Currie Cup season.

The versatile back, who helped South Africa win the World Rugby Under-20 Championship in 2025, is heading to Bloemfontein with hopes of taking the next step in his career. His departure adds another player movement to watch as South African franchises strengthen their squads.

Source: Briefly News