The double World Cup winning Springbok scrumhalf, Faf De Klerk has signed a two year deal with the Bloemfontein based side. He arrives in June 2026, fresh off four seasons in Japan with the Yokohama Canon Eagles and is hungry for a new challenge on home soil. The 34 year old is regarded as one of the most electrifying scrumhalves to ever pull on a green and gold jersey for the Springboks.
(Japan)
Rugby Took Him Far. Family Brought Him Home.
De Klerk’s rugby odyssey has been nothing short of extraordinary. From his explosive early days with the Lions in Super Rugby to his Currie Cup involvement with the Golden Lions and later experiencing a high intensity defining spell with Sale Sharks in the English Premiership where he became a fan favorite and household name for the club. His career has been defined by consistency, grit, and an elite level of execution. Most recently, his stint in Japan further refined his composure and tactical sharpness.
After almost a decade of suitcase packing and different time zones, Faf de Klerk is coming home. The decision.? It is understood to be deeply personal. Driven by a desire to be closer to his family, both his own and his wife’s family. Thus proving that the feeling of being home is stronger than any contract offer. Which is a reminder in human nature that behind every jersey and accolade, there is a human being.
In June 2022, Faf made a bold decision to test himself in Japan, by doing so. He later joined the Yokohama Canon Eagles in League One. Fast forward four seasons later, that chapter is now drawing to a close as the two times world cup winner decided to return home.
At just 1.72 meters (5 ft 8) in height, De Klerk has never been the biggest player on the field nor the tallest. He has never needed to be. Because what he lacks in stature, he more than compensates for with an almost reckless fearlessness. A quality that has defined every chapter of his remarkable career.
Make no mistake, this is a seismic coup for the Bloemfontein based side. A side already known for their passionate, free flowing brand of rugby now adds a generational talent to their ranks. De Klerk doesn’t just bring experience and depth to the squad. He brings gravitas, audacity, and a winning mentality forged at the highest level of the sport. His mere presence in the dressing room changes the psychological dynamic of every match he plays. It elevates the franchise to a different pedigree and boasts more confidence in the team in pursuit of silverware.
