Cape Town - The Bulls will again be looking to flaunt the versatility they possess across the range of rugby formats when they turn out in defence of their Beachcomber World Club 10s title in Mauritius next year.
The fourth edition of the tournament, to be played between June 15-17, 2018, will see eight professional teams from around the world converging on a stunning island paradise for a rugby party.
John Mitchell, the Blue Bulls Company Executive Rugby, says he looks forward to having his squad defend the prestigious crown they lifted at last year's event.
"The tournament comes at a perfect time for us, as we head into the business end of Super Rugby, with the Currie Cup season on the horizon as well," Mitchell says.
"This not only provides a good platform to get a competitive run in against some quality opposition, but also gives the boys an opportunity to enjoy a little more space on the rugby field.
"We are looking forward to returning to Mauritius, and will be keen to defend our title in 2018."
The Bulls will compete against invitation teams representing the likes of fellow South African giants the Sharks, English Premiership club the Newcastle Falcons, French outfits Montpellier Herault and the French Pyrenees, as well as the Africa Pacific Dragons, with the final two teams to be announced in the next week.
They will turn out in the 10-man format, which is a shortened version of the XVs format mixed with some of the exciting elements of Sevens.
"We are eager to showcase great players and teams in this exciting 10 a side format, and we are certain that spectators will enjoy superb matches between high-quality teams," says Heyneke Meyer, Managing Director of Carinat Sports Marketing.
"This year we have also opened the tournament to amateur and social teams, who will take part in various categories, giving fans the chance to not only watch some great rugby but to compete in the event themselves as well."
The unique tournament gives rugby fans the opportunity to rub shoulders with world-class players by staying in one of the luxury Beachcomber Resorts and sharing hotels with professional teams who are participating.
Aside from the standard features of a trip to Mauritius, concerts and hospitality tents will assist in keeping spectators entertained throughout the three-day spectacle.
"We are delighted to be staging this spectacular event in Mauritius for the third year in a row, offering fans a chance to watch world-class rugby against the backdrop of an island paradise," says Jon Phelps, a Founding Partner of Carinat Sports Marketing.
"This edition promises to be bigger and better than ever before."
All-inclusive flight and hotel packages are available from Beachcomber Resorts & Hotels to stay with your favourite team in one of their luxury resorts.