Cape Town - The Bulls' front row reserves have been boosted after former prop Rayno Gerber signed a deal for the Super Rugby tournament.

The 120kg Gerber, who was a popular figure in the Bulls camp in the previous decade, started training with the Pretoria-based franchise on Wednesday.

According to the Beeld newspaper Gerber signed a contract until 31 August this year.

This will be a welcome boost for the team as Rossouw de Klerk - who played as Werner Kruger's understudy last year - will miss the majority of the competition due to a foot injury.

Gerber won two Super Rugby titles with the Bulls before he went to Stade Francais in 2009.

"I wanted to come back to South Africa, especially for my family's sake. I have two little kids and want to raise them here amongst their family. The chance to slot in at the Bulls thus comes at an ideal time for me," said Gerber.

"It is also a chance to get back into South African rugby."

Gerber last played in the second part of last year and realises he'll have to work hard to get fit.

"I last played about five or six months ago so it will be tough, but I'm really excited to be back. There are a couple of new faces in the team, but luckily also some familiar ones, so I'm already feeling at home."