Too much rugby is the reason why Springbok No.8 decided to quit Toulon and play in Japan instead.
In an interview with SARugbymag, Vermeulen says the decision to play for Kubota Spears in Japan was made in December 2017 already.
That decision means Vermeulen is not available for the Springboks in this year’s Rugby Championship.
But "Thor", who is apparently on the Bulls’ radar, explains: “I needed a change after three years with Toulon.
“That was a great experience, but I played a hell of a lot.
“That was really difficult. The opposite is true in Japan, where they don’t play much more than six months of rugby.
“My stay at Kubota will give me an opportunity to better preserve my body but still give my best for my club, which is non-negotiable to me.”
He adds: “My journey with the Boks is hopefully far from over.”