The Bulls on Wednesday confirmed the signing of experienced prop Jacques van Rooyen, who will join Pretoria franchise with immediate effect.

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The 33-year-old loosehead started his professional career relatively late at 27 in 2013 when he signed for the Lions.

But he flourished for the Johannesburg franchise and featured in three Super Rugby finals. 

Van Rooyen, affectionately known as 'Policeman' due to his association with Pretoria Police Rugby Club, left the Lions in 2018 to play for English club Bath.

He arrived at Loftus Versfeld for a trial period this week but did enough to impress director of rugby Jake White.

Van Rooyen will prove a useful and experienced backup to Springbok Lizo Gqoboka, who is the first-choice option in the No 1 jersey at the Bulls. 

"Van Rooyen's experience will also add immensely in mentoring the younger loosehead props while his effective scrummaging technique and incredible mobility will bolster the Bulls as director of rugby, Jake White, continues to add firepower to his squad," the Bulls said via a press statement.

- Compiled by Sport24 staff