In a move that has surprised many, Faf de Klerk, the celebrated Springboks scrum-half, will be leaving Japan's Yokohama Canon Eagles at the season's end. The two-time Rugby World Cup winner, who first joined the Eagles in 2022 after departing from Sale Sharks, has played a pivotal role in the team despite challenges posed by injuries in the recent seasons. At 34, de Klerk is set to make a significant career shift by returning to South Africa to join the Cheetahs, turning down offers from his former team Sale Sharks and various French clubs, including Perpignan.
The Cheetahs have expressed their excitement over acquiring such a seasoned player. "We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Faf to the Cheetahs family," the team stated. "He brings incredible energy, experience, and leadership – exactly what we need as we push to compete at the highest level. He’s the kind of player who can shift the momentum of a match, and we know our supporters can’t wait to see him in orange."
De Klerk's decision is reportedly influenced by personal reasons, including the desire to be closer to his and his wife’s family. Despite the risk associated with joining a team that plays fewer matches in top competitions and his recent limited playtime with the Springboks, de Klerk’s commitment to rugby and personal growth remains evident.
Rassie Erasmus, the head coach of the Springboks, has frequently mentioned de Klerk in discussions, highlighting his ongoing involvement with the national team. "Faf has been in constant contact, attending meetings virtually and staying integrated with our strategies," Erasmus revealed.
"It’s with a full heart that I look back on my time with the Yokohama Canon Eagles," de Klerk reflected.
In his heartfelt farewell to the Eagles, de Klerk praised the club’s welcoming nature and familial atmosphere. "From the moment I arrived in Japan, I was welcomed into something truly special. This club is more than just a team – it’s a family. The culture, the professionalism, and the pride everyone takes in representing the jersey made every day an incredible experience."
He continued, "To the supporters – thank you. Your passion and support never went unnoticed. Whether at a host game or a visitor game, you created an atmosphere that lifted us and made playing for this club something I will always cherish."
De Klerk also expressed gratitude towards his teammates and staff at the Eagles. "It’s a special group of people, and I’ve learned so much from being part of it. Japan has become a place very close to my heart. I leave with nothing but respect and appreciation for everyone involved with the Yokohama Canon Eagles. Thank you for everything, it’s been an honour."
As Faf de Klerk prepares for his next chapter with the Cheetahs, his legacy at the Eagles and his enduring role with the Springboks remain a testament to his impact on the sport, illustrating the profound connections and cultural exchanges that transcend the rugby field.
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In a move that has surprised many, Faf de Klerk, the celebrated Springboks scrum-half, will be leaving Japan's Yokohama Canon Eagles at the season's end. The two-time Rugby World Cup winner, who first joined the Eagles in 2022 after departing from Sale Sharks, has played a pivotal role in the team despite challenges posed by injuries in the recent seasons. At 34, de Klerk is set to make a significant career shift by returning to South Africa to join the Cheetahs, turning down offers from his former team Sale Sharks and various French clubs, including Perpignan.
The Cheetahs have expressed their excitement over acquiring such a seasoned player. "We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Faf to the Cheetahs family," the team stated. "He brings incredible energy, experience, and leadership – exactly what we need as we push to compete at the highest level. He’s the kind of player who can shift the momentum of a match, and we know our supporters can’t wait to see him in orange."
De Klerk's decision is reportedly influenced by personal reasons, including the desire to be closer to his and his wife’s family. Despite the risk associated with joining a team that plays fewer matches in top competitions and his recent limited playtime with the Springboks, de Klerk’s commitment to rugby and personal growth remains evident.
Rassie Erasmus, the head coach of the Springboks, has frequently mentioned de Klerk in discussions, highlighting his ongoing involvement with the national team. "Faf has been in constant contact, attending meetings virtually and staying integrated with our strategies," Erasmus revealed.
"It’s with a full heart that I look back on my time with the Yokohama Canon Eagles," de Klerk reflected.
In his heartfelt farewell to the Eagles, de Klerk praised the club’s welcoming nature and familial atmosphere. "From the moment I arrived in Japan, I was welcomed into something truly special. This club is more than just a team – it’s a family. The culture, the professionalism, and the pride everyone takes in representing the jersey made every day an incredible experience."
He continued, "To the supporters – thank you. Your passion and support never went unnoticed. Whether at a host game or a visitor game, you created an atmosphere that lifted us and made playing for this club something I will always cherish."
De Klerk also expressed gratitude towards his teammates and staff at the Eagles. "It’s a special group of people, and I’ve learned so much from being part of it. Japan has become a place very close to my heart. I leave with nothing but respect and appreciation for everyone involved with the Yokohama Canon Eagles. Thank you for everything, it’s been an honour."
As Faf de Klerk prepares for his next chapter with the Cheetahs, his legacy at the Eagles and his enduring role with the Springboks remain a testament to his impact on the sport, illustrating the profound connections and cultural exchanges that transcend the rugby field.