The Vodacom Bulls have got their sights set on bringing home a former Stormers forward as they reload the roster for the 2025-26 season.
According to Rapport, Scotland international Oli Kebble is in advanced talks to join the Pretoria-based union as they look to bolster their front-row stocks. The 33-year-old loosehead prop currently plays for French club Oyonnax, having joined them in 2024 after a seven-year stint with Glasgow Warriors.
Kebble represented Western Province and the Stormers from 2012 to 2017 before heading abroad. He made his Test debut for Scotland in 2020 after qualifying on residency, and earned 12 caps, the last of which came in 2022.
Meanwhile, loosehead prop Simphiwe Matanzima could be on his way out of Loftus, with the Sharks reportedly lining him up as a replacement for the injured Trevor Nyakane and Ntuthuko Mchunu (Stormers).
While Matanzima struggled for game time last season due to a heart-related illness, he featured in the Bulls’ Vodacom URC playoff matches against Munster and Glasgow.
This move signals a growing intensity in player movement within South African rugby, where franchises are no longer hesitating to pay for top-tier talent. Both the Bulls and Sharks appear committed to reshaping their squads for the battles ahead, and this front-row tug-of-war could be just the beginning of a busy transfer window.
Rapport says a move to Durban would hinge on the Sharks paying a significant transfer fee.
Matanzima has been a standout performer for the Bulls over the past few seasons, establishing himself as a reliable force in the front row. His departure would be a significant loss for the Pretoria-based franchise. The Sharks, however, are eager to secure his services and will have to pay a substantial transfer fee to land the 26-year-old loosehead prop.
With Matanzima’s exit looming, the Bulls have moved quickly to identify a replacement. Oli Kebble, a powerful scrummager with both URC and international experience, has emerged as the leading candidate. The 32-year-old currently plays for Glasgow Warriors and has earned caps for Scotland after qualifying on residency. He also brings a wealth of experience from his earlier days with the Stormers and Western Province.
Fans of both franchises will be watching closely as the drama unfolds.
