Faf de Klerk, the renowned Springboks scrum-half and double Rugby World Cup winner, is set to leave the Yokohama Canon Eagles at the end of the current season. The 34-year-old has signed a two-year deal with the Cheetahs, marking a significant shift in his career.
De Klerk joined the Yokohama Canon Eagles in 2022 from Sale Sharks, but his time in Japan has been marred by injuries, limiting his impact on the field. Despite these challenges, he has earned 60 Test caps for South Africa, showcasing his talent and resilience as a key player.
In an official statement, the Cheetahs expressed their excitement about De Klerk’s signing, emphasizing his leadership and tenacity. “We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Faf to the Cheetahs family,” the team stated, highlighting the attributes they believe will enhance their competitive edge.
De Klerk’s move to the Cheetahs comes after reportedly attracting interest from his former club, Sale Sharks, as well as several French clubs. However, he has opted for a fresh challenge, albeit with a pay cut, as he seeks to revitalize his career in a new environment.
Reflecting on his time in Japan, De Klerk left an emotional message on the Canon Eagles website, stating, “It’s with a full heart that I look back on my time with the Yokohama Canon Eagles. 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.” His heartfelt goodbye underscores the connections he forged during his tenure in Japan.
While the Cheetahs are eager to integrate De Klerk into their squad, his move is seen as a risk due to the team’s limited participation in top competitions. Observers are keen to see how this transition will affect both De Klerk’s performance and the Cheetahs’ prospects in the coming seasons.
As the rugby community watches closely, details remain unconfirmed regarding the full implications of De Klerk’s transfer. His next chapter with the Cheetahs promises to be a pivotal moment in his storied career.