South African rugby franchises Bulls and Stormers have announced that Springbok locks Ruan Nortjé and Salmaan Moerat will join overseas clubs before the 2026/27 season, shortly after losses in the Champions Cup Round of 16. Nortjé moves to Kubota Spears in Japan, while Moerat joins La Rochelle in France.
The departures come amid a challenging northern hemisphere season for local teams, where depth is crucial. Both players remain eligible for Springbok selection under SA Rugby policy, aiding national team prospects ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
For the Bulls, Nortjé's exit follows Wilco Louw's return to Cape Town. Backline players Kurt-Lee Arendse and David Kriel are also pursuing overseas opportunities, with interest in scrumhalf Embrose Papier. New signings include Thaakir Abrahams, Dylan Maart, Hanro Liebenberg and Mawande Mdanda, though coach Johan Ackermann must manage gaps during Springbok absences.
Stormers coach John Dobson said Moerat's move to La Rochelle surprised him. Ruben van Heerden heads to Montpellier, but the Cape side bolsters its front row with Louw and returning Frans Malherbe. Non-Test players like Ruhan Nel and Hacjivah Dayimani have been key to their strong URC and Champions Cup form.
Sharks lose Grant Williams to Japan but gain Thomas du Toit from Bath. Lions retain core players and add Boan Venter, eyeing URC playoffs.