Cardiff Rugby confirmed that Johan Mulder has signed a new long-term deal to remain at the Arms Park.
The all-action scrum-half arrived from South Africa ahead of the 2024-25 season and has been a revelation in Blue & Black.
He has made 33 appearances and scored four tries, earning widespread plaudits for his uncompromising style of play and attacking ability.
Life in Cardiff has exceeded expectations for the 26-year-old, and he now sees the Welsh capital as a home away from home.
With a return to South Africa this week for Saturday’s BKT United Rugby Championship quarter-final against DHL Stormers, Mulder is excited for the future at Cardiff, with the club continuing to grow on and off the pitch.
“I’m delighted to extend my stay with Cardiff. I’ve loved my time here so far and feel really settled at the club and in the city.
To be part of Cardiff during the club’s 150th year is really special, and I’m excited about what this group can achieve together over the next season.
I’m also looking forward to continuing my own growth and development as a player.”
Mulder came through the system in Pretoria, spending time with Blue Bulls, Griquas and the Lions.
It was his form for Griquas, which saw him bag nine tries in 20 appearances, that alerted Cardiff to his potential.
Three years later, he is now in constant competition with Aled Davies and Ellis Bevan for a starting spot at the Arms Park, and Corniel van Zyl believes he has a big future.
“We are really excited that Johan Mulder is staying on at Cardiff. He’s come a long way in finishing up his second season here, moving from the Southern Hemisphere to the Northern Hemisphere and adjusting his game.
He’s worked really hard at it and has been a great asset for us. He forms a big part in what we want to showcase on the pitch in fighting for the jersey and growing our brand of rugby.
He’s a tough player, he defends well and is obviously very good at the breakdown defensively. His speed in attack, kicking game and controlling the players around him is what he is known for.
I’m looking forward to seeing what the next level of his game looks like and what the future holds for him.”