Kriel to leave Bulls in July

The Bulls have confirmed that utility backline player, David Kriel, will leave the club in July to join French side La Rochelle.

The 27-year old will bring an end to a six year stint with the Bulls, during which he made 143 appearances.

A two-time Currie Cup champion, Kriel most recently started at fullback in the Bulls’ 25-21 Champions Cup round-of-16 loss to the Glasgow Warriors on Saturday.

Kriel expressed excitement about the move, saying he is looking forward to embracing a new environment.

“I couldn’t be more excited to be heading there to learn French culture, to meet new people and still do the thing that I love most,” Kriel said.

“I would like to thank everyone who contributed to my journey with the Vodacom Bulls. I’m very thankful for every coach, every player, every staff member and every fan for making my time here so memorable.

Kriel leaves with an impressive record, having scored 321 points for the Bulls, including 53 tries, 16 conversions and eight penalties, placing him 25th on the club’s all-time points list.

His 53 tries rank him ninth on the Bulls’ all-time try-scoring list, ahead of legendary figures such as Bryan Habana and current stars Kurt-Lee Arendse and Canan Moodie.

“I’m grateful for each opportunity and the growth as not only a player but as a human being. Goodbyes are never easy, especially to something that means so much to me and a place I’ve called home for the last six years, Kriel added.

🚨DAVID KRIEL TO JOIN LA ROCHELLE

After six seasons with the Vodacom Bulls, versatile back David Kriel will move to La Rochelle in July.

A two-time Currie Cup winner, he made 142 appearances and scored 321 points, earning praise for his consistency and adaptability.

Kriel… pic.twitter.com/ndzk7aOJnz

— Official Blue Bulls (@BlueBullsRugby) April 7, 2026

Written by: Ntsako Mukhari