Springbok scrum-half Faf de Klerk makes shock return to the Gallagher Prem

Saturday, 13 December 2025 at 09:46

byRugby Rucker

Faf de Klerk is considering his options over a possible return to the Gallagher PREM next season according to Rugby Pass, with his contract at Yokohama Canon Eagles due to expire.

The 34-year-old Springbok scrum-half has just returned to pre-season training in Japan but a move back to England has not been ruled out.

Neil Fissler has reported that there is also interest coming from South Africa, with the Sharks believed to be keeping a close eye on his situation, while Newcastle Red Bulls are in the market for an experienced No.9.

De Klerk began his professional career with the Lions before spending five seasons in the PREM with Sale Sharks, making more than 100 appearances prior to his move to Japan four years ago.

A key member of Rassie Erasmus’ squad that won back-to-back Rugby World Cups, de Klerk remains one of the most experienced scrum-halves available on the market.

Faf de Klerk – Player Bio

Age: 34
Position: Scrum-half
Current club: Yokohama Canon Eagles
Former clubs: Lions, Sale Sharks
International caps: 50+ (South Africa)
Honours: Rugby World Cup winner (2019, 2023)

2027 Rugby World Cup draw confirmed: England play Wales

Each of the six pools featured a team from Bands 1, 2, 3 and 4.

The confirmed Bands based on rankings were:

Band 1: South Africa, New Zealand, England, Ireland, France, Argentina
Band 2: Australia, Fiji, Scotland, Italy, Wales, Japan
Band 3: Georgia, Uruguay, Spain, USA, Chile, Tonga
Band 4: Samoa, Portugal, Romania, Hong Kong China, Zimbabwe, Canada

2027 Rugby World Cup draw:

Pool A

New Zealand – Perennial contenders with flair, power and unmatched rugby IQ.
Australia – Unpredictable but dangerous, capable of brilliance on their day.
Chile – Fast-improving newcomers bringing passion and fearless physicality.
Hong Kong China – Skillful, energetic, and eager to prove themselves on the global stage.

Pool B

South Africa – Brutal, relentless, and brutally efficient—never count them out.
Italy – Developing rapidly, mixing strong set-piece work with expanding ambition.
Georgia – Scrum specialists with raw forward strength and growing all-round polish.
Romania – Proud and powerful, known for toughness and unwavering fight.

Pool C

Argentina – Dynamic, crafty, and fiercely competitive with a never-say-die spirit.
Fiji – Magical offloads, searing pace, and unique unpredictability.
Spain – Determined climbers building consistency and confidence every year.
Canada – Physical and committed, working to regain their traditional sharpness.

Pool D

Ireland – Well-drilled, intelligent, and ruthlessly efficient across the park.
Scotland – Creative attackers with growing confidence and slick backline play.
Uruguay – Tenacious, organized, and fearless against bigger rugby nations.
Portugal – Exciting, fast-paced, and thriving with a young, fearless core.

Pool E

France – Electric, unpredictable, and capable of brilliance from anywhere.
Japan – High-tempo, disciplined, and tactically sharp—they never stop moving.
USA – Athletic and physical, with a growing pool of exciting talent.
Samoa – Bone-shaking tackles, powerful runners, and trademark island flair.

Pool F

England – Structured, strategic, and capable of grinding down any opponent.
Wales – Proud, passionate, and dangerous when the momentum swings their way.
Tonga – Heavy hitters with explosive power and fearless intensity.
Zimbabwe – Energetic and ambitious, bringing speed and spirit to every contest.

Quiz: Name these 10 retro rugby players

From jaw-dropping tries to unforgettable moments (and yes, some questionable haircuts), these players defined a golden era of the game. If their names don’t instantly come to mind, we suggest a quick trip to YouTube to jog your memory. Trust us, it’s worth it.

Ready to test your knowledge? Let’s see if you’ve still got it. Good luck!