Johan Mulder will go into this weekend’s BKT United Rugby Championship quarter final in his native South Africa hoping to thank Cardiff Rugby for putting their faith in his services in the shape of a new long-term deal.
The 26-year-old scrum half has made 33 appearances since arriving at the Arms Park in 2024 and has been battling with two Welsh international No 9s, Aled Davies and Ellis Bevan, for the shirt. The new contract he signed earlier this week proves he has made a big impression.
“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,” said Mulder.
“I’ve learned so much and had to develop my game to play in the URC. I love the people I play with and the style of play and I’m excited by what’s to come.”
That excitement will reach fever pitch in Cape Town on Saturday (30 May – 2.30pm) when Cardiff take-on the Stormers in the URC quarter finals. Having beaten the same sides 22-16 at the Arms Park two weeks ago, a repeat performance would take the Welsh region into unchartered territory in the final four.
“Nobody wants to reach the play offs and think that’s good enough for the season. We really want to go for it because nobody remembers the teams who get into the quarter finals, they only remember who wins the title.
“Going to Cape Town is like going anywhere else to play. We just have to put our game out onto the pitch.
“We know the Stormers will feed off a big crowd at the DHL Stadium, but so will we. It’s going to be a big battle.”
Mulder has experience of playing in Cape Town from his previous life playing for the Blue Bulls, Griquas and the Lions. This weekend, however, will be a step up and Cardiff head coach Corniel van Zyl is backing him to thrive on the biggest stage of his career.
“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,” said Van Zyl.
“He’s been a great asset for us and 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 who 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.”