Faf de Klerk, the renowned Springboks scrum-half and double Rugby World Cup winner, will leave the Yokohama Canon Eagles at the end of the season. The 34-year-old has signed a two-year deal with the Cheetahs, marking a pivotal shift in his career.
De Klerk joined the Yokohama Canon Eagles in 2022 from Sale Sharks, but his tenure in Japan has been marred by injuries over the last two seasons. Despite these setbacks, his performance and leadership on the field have drawn significant attention from various clubs, including Sale Sharks and several French teams.
The Cheetahs expressed their enthusiasm about De Klerk’s signing, stating, “We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Faf to the Cheetahs family.” This sentiment reflects the high expectations surrounding his arrival, as the team looks to enhance their competitive edge.
In his career, De Klerk has earned 60 Test caps for South Africa, showcasing his experience and skill at the highest levels of rugby. His move to the Cheetahs, however, comes with a notable pay cut, a decision that underscores his commitment to the sport and the team.
Reflecting on his time in Japan, De Klerk left an emotional statement on the Canon Eagles website, saying, “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.”
While the Cheetahs are optimistic about De Klerk’s impact, 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 career and the Cheetahs’ performance in the coming seasons.
As the rugby world watches closely, the implications of De Klerk’s departure from the Yokohama Canon Eagles and his new chapter with the Cheetahs remain to be fully realized. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specifics of his contract and the expectations set forth by the Cheetahs.
