Earlier this week, the Springboks curiously revealed that Bulls star Celimpilo Gumede (free ahead) had been referred to as as much as the nationwide coaching camp at the moment beneath method on the eve of the 2024 Test season.
The squad initially didn’t embrace any Bulls gamers who have been nonetheless concerned in the URC, however the Pretoria franchise finally agreed to launch the uncapped Gumede, who attended the final Springbok alignment camp.
It’s a large present of religion in Gumede, who has frequently proven glimpses of his potential this previous season.
Standing 1.92m tall and weighing in at over 100kg, Gumede boasts spectacular bodily attributes, however has additionally coupled this with efficient mobility.
Offering an possibility at No 8 and blindside flank, the Springbok coaches have clearly seen one thing particular in the teenager who has come via SA Rugby’s Elite Player Development programme.
Originally from Zululand, the place he attended Umfolozi Primary, Gumede has adopted an attention-grabbing street on the option to his latest Springbok call-up.
After spending a while at the Nuwe Republiek faculty in Vryheid, he then headed to Durban the place he accomplished his highschool profession at DHS and likewise represented Durban Collegians at junior membership rugby stage.
At faculty stage, he performed in the U16 Grant Khomo Week, U17 Interprovincial Sevens and the U18 Craven Week, whereas he gained back-to-back SA Schools choice in 2017 and 2018, and the following yr represented the Junior Springboks.
With his expertise clear to see, his senior profession started at the Sharks, the place he first earned his stripes in the Currie Cup.
Yet it’s actually at the Bulls the place his profession has taken off, having joined the Pretoria franchise from the coast in July of 2023, and making his debut in opposition to Namibia in a pleasant.
He has gone on to make a number of aggressive appearances throughout the United Rugby Championship and Champions Cup competitions, along with his versatility providing including further worth to his all-round providing as a dynamic ball provider.
Celimpilo Gumede has caught the eye of the Springbok coaches
“Celimpilo has been playing impressive rugby this season and we are excited to see how he integrates in the squad and what he has to offer at training,” stated Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus.
“We would like to extend our gratitude to the Bulls for allowing him to join us at short notice, especially at such an important point of their URC season.”
The free ahead has dedicated his future to the Bulls
Earlier this yr it was confirmed that he had signed a brand new contract at the Bulls, which can see him play out of Loftus till June 2028.
“I had no doubt (in my mind) that I wanted to accept the offer because I have been in a good space since arriving in Pretoria and being with the Bulls family,” he commented. “There is a lot that comes with it, good culture, and good people outside of rugby, for me it has been a huge blessing and opportunity to be with this team. I am really happy and I look forward to the future.”
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