The Vodacom Bulls have confirmed the return of a star loose forward.
Hanro Liebenberg, who captained the Junior Springboks in 2015, will rejoin the Pretoria-based outfit at the end of the season.
During a seven-year spell in England with the Leicester Tigers, Liebenberg has made 141 appearances, scored 31 tries and captained the side to the Premiership title in 2021-22.
The 30-year-old previously represented the Bulls between 2015 and 2019 before heading overseas.
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“Bringing a player of Hanro’s calibre back to Loftus is a special moment for this union,” said Bulls CEO Edgar Rathbone. “He isn’t just a world-class loose forward; he is a man who understands the DNA of the Bulls.
“During his seven years in England, we watched him grow into a formidable leader and a champion, and to have him choose to return home to finish his career in Pretoria speaks volumes about the culture we are building here.
“We’ve remained in close contact with Hanro and his family over the years, and we are thrilled to welcome him, Danielle, and Lucah back to the Bulls family.”
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Liebenberg admitted the decision was emotional.
“This was one of the toughest decisions of my career because of how much I love Leicester, but the call of home and the opportunity to represent the Bulls again was something I couldn’t ignore.
“I left Pretoria as a young player looking to test myself abroad, and I’m returning with a lot more experience and a deep desire to contribute to the success of this squad.
“Loftus is where it all started for me, and I can’t wait to run out onto that field again in front of the fans who supported me from day one. My family and I are excited to be back among our people.”
Photo: Carl Fourie/Gallo Images
