The Vodacom Bulls have officially confirmed the signing of lock Walt Steenkamp on a two-year deal from the Cheetahs in November.

The towering 24-year-old lock forward, who stands 2.03m at 121kg, had been gaining valuable experience in the PRO14 for the Cheetahs before opting to ply his trade in Pretoria.

Steenkamp made his mark in the Varsity Cup in the colours of NWU-Pukke, adding a valuable contribution in 2016 when the Potchefstroom-based university clinched the final against Maties in overtime.

In 2018, he was awarded the prestigious Player that Rocks award, before moving on to the Currie Cup First Division where he made a massive impact for the Leopards.

The mobile yet imposing lock made the trip to Bloemfontein where he continued to fire for the Cheetahs, especially on the heavier European fields. His arrival at Loftus Versfeld will most certainly benefit the second row as director of rugby Jake White continues attracting experience to Pretoria.

‘It’s a big step in my career, and there is certainly some big shoes to fill, but I look forward to putting on the Bulls jersey and making the Loftus faithful proud,’ Steenkamp said.

‘I’m also excited about working with a coach like Jake, it is a great opportunity for me and I hope to grow from strength to strength under his leadership.’

Steenkamp’s arrival in Pretoria follows the signings of Springbok No 8 Duane Vermeulen, former Stormers back Gio Aplon and Munster loose forward Arno Botha.