The Vodacom Bulls have produced some of the most formidable and influential players in South African rugby history. Now, six of the greatest names to have ever worn the blue jersey are in contention to become the first inductee into the SA Rugby Magazine Bulls Hall of Fame.
SA Rugby Magazine is launching an exclusive Hall of Fame for each South African franchise, and the Bulls are the first in line. These six legendary players, who played pivotal roles from the early days of Super Rugby, will be placed in a fan-driven poll to determine who will receive the inaugural honour.
From dominant enforcers to tactical masterminds, each nominee left a lasting impact on the Bulls and South African rugby as a whole.
Fourie du Preez – The Mastermind Scrumhalf
A player who defined excellence and precision, Fourie du Preez was one of the greatest scrumhalves to grace the game. Serving the Bulls from 2002 to 2011, he was the heartbeat of the backline, controlling the tempo of the game with pinpoint passing and an elite kicking game.
Du Preez played a major role in the Bulls’ golden era, winning the Super Rugby title three times (2007, 2009, 2010) and lifting the Currie Cup in 2003, 2004, and 2009. He was crowned SA Rugby Player of the Year twice (2006 and 2009) and was a key figure in the Springboks’ 2007 Rugby World Cup triumph.
His game intelligence and ability to deliver under pressure made him an irreplaceable asset. Whether dictating play with his boot or launching precision box kicks, Du Preez set the standard for future generations.
Danie Rossouw – The Underrated Powerhouse
Rossouw might not have been the flashiest player, but he was one of the most consistent, hard-working, and effective forwards in Bulls history. Between 1999 and 2011, he amassed over 200 caps at club and provincial levels, scoring 32 tries and securing a Currie Cup (2004, 2009) and three Super Rugby titles (2007, 2009, 2010).
Despite his immense value to the team, Rossouw often operated in the background, allowing his performances to do the talking. He was a force in the physical exchanges, capable of bone-crunching tackles, powerful carries, and exceptional work rate in the tight phases.
His versatility was another asset—he played across the lock, flank, and No. 8 positions, always delivering a world-class standard.
Joost van der Westhuizen – The Ultimate Warrior
Few players embodied the Bulls’ fighting spirit quite like Joost van der Westhuizen. A Pretoria-born legend, Joost played his entire professional career for the Bulls, captaining the side to Currie Cup victories in 1998 and 2002.
Standing taller than most scrumhalves, his explosiveness, vision, and unmatched defensive strength set him apart. He had a natural instinct for attacking gaps, regularly breaching opposition defenses with his sniping runs and quick thinking.
As one of the finest No. 9s to ever play the game, his leadership, skillset, and legacy are permanently etched in the Bulls’ history.
Pierre Spies – The Athletic Marvel
A freak of nature, Pierre Spies redefined the role of a South African No. 8 with his explosive power, raw speed, and exceptional ball-carrying ability. Making 119 Super Rugby appearances for the Bulls, he became a crucial part of their dominant forward pack between 2005 and 2015.
Spies had a habit of delivering big moments, such as his opening try in the 2007 Super Rugby final against the Sharks. He was instrumental in the Bulls’ three Super Rugby triumphs (2007, 2009, 2010) and Currie Cup victory in 2009.
Unlike traditional No. 8s who relied purely on size, Spies had blistering pace and agility, often popping up in the backline to exploit defensive gaps. His ability to turn defense into attack made him a nightmare for opposition teams.
Bakkies Botha – The Enforcer
Bakkies Botha was the embodiment of physical dominance. Widely regarded as one of the toughest locks to ever play the game, Botha’s career was defined by brutal tackling, dominant scrummaging, and unmatched aggression.
His resume speaks for itself—four Currie Cup titles (2002, 2004, 2006, 2009), three Super Rugby titles (2007, 2009, 2010), and a Vodacom Cup victory in 2001. He was also a three-time nominee for SA Rugby Player of the Year (2003, 2004, 2005).
While his intensity often bordered on the edge of legality, his impact was undeniable. Botha was a pillar of the Bulls pack, setting the tone with his relentless work ethic and unshakable presence.
Victor Matfield – The Lineout General
Victor Matfield was the king of the lineout and one of the greatest locks in rugby history. His ability to read opposition jumpers, steal crucial lineouts, and dictate forward play made him an invaluable asset to the Bulls.
Across his career, Matfield made almost 200 combined Super Rugby and Currie Cup appearances and won three Currie Cups (2002, 2004, 2009) and three Super Rugby titles (2007, 2009, 2010).
Alongside Bakkies Botha, Matfield formed the most feared lock pairing in world rugby. His defensive work at set-pieces and leadership qualities were instrumental in the Bulls’ sustained success.
Even beyond the lineout, Matfield was known for his rugby intelligence, vision, and unmatched tactical awareness, making him one of the most influential captains in the sport.
A Legacy of Greatness
With such illustrious careers, every nominee brings something unique to the table. From the calm and calculated Du Preez, to the explosive Spies, the tenacious Botha, and the lineout master Matfield, these players shaped the identity of the Bulls and South African rugby.
Now, fans have the power to decide who will be the first inductee into the SA Rugby Magazine Bulls Hall of Fame. This is more than just a poll—it’s a celebration of rugby excellence, honouring the players who gave everything for the blue jersey.
Vote for your favourite Bulls legend and be part of history as we crown the ultimate Bulls Hall of Famer!
