The 37-year-old from Hawston in the Western Cape is currently still in Japan where he played in the Japanese Top League for Toyota Verblitz.

The news of the contracting of the former Stormer was confirmed by the Bulls via a statement.

“The Bulls confirm the signing of Springbok utility back Gio Aplon, who will join the team from June or as soon as he is able to travel back to South Africa, as Director of Rugby Jake White continues to build his player group.

“Aplon proved to be a nemesis of his new team when he played in the colours of the Stormers and Western Province.  He epitomised the phrase ‘size doesn’t matter’ with his explosive speed and nimble feet allowing him to score tries from almost anywhere on the field, taking on the biggest and the best the game had to offer.

A long and illustrious career in Cape Town, which saw the former Hawthorn School scholar lifting the coveted Currie Cup in 2012, came to an end in 2014 as he moved to the French Top 14 club, Grenoble, where he flourished despite the heavier fields.

Aplon joins the Bulls from Toyota Verblitz where he played under White’s tutelage. There is no doubt that his experience and amazing skillset will not only benefit the team but also assist in the further development of the exciting younger outside backs.”

Aplon in his turn said that he is happy to play for the team which has a lot of respect for.

“The Bulls have always been a formidable force in the rugby world.

“I have always had a great deal of respect for the brand and what it has achieved, and I am truly looking forward to running out at Loftus.

“Coach Jake has an amazing vision and plan for the team, and I am just honoured that he wants me as part of it. I look forward to making the Bulls family proud.”

@MorganPiek OFM Sport