Faf de Klerk Signs Two-Year Deal with Free State Cheetahs

Veteran Springbok scrumhalf Faf de Klerk has signed a two-year contract with the Free State Cheetahs, marking his return to South African rugby after nearly a decade abroad. The 34-year-old, a double Rugby World Cup winner, will join the Bloemfontein-based team from June 2026, following the end of his current stint with the Yokohama Canon Eagles in Japan's League One.

De Klerk, who has earned 60 Test caps since his debut in 2016, brings a storied career to the Cheetahs. He rose to prominence with the Lions in Super Rugby, where his energetic play and defensive tenacity made him a standout. After leaving Johannesburg in 2017, he spent six seasons with Sale Sharks in England, becoming a key figure in the Premiership. His time there contributed to his selection for the Springboks' 2019 World Cup triumph in Japan and the 2021 British and Irish Lions series victory. De Klerk then moved to Yokohama in 2022, though injuries limited his appearances in recent seasons.

The signing comes despite interest from clubs in England and France, including a potential return to Sale Sharks and an offer from Perpignan. Reports indicate De Klerk accepted a significant pay cut to prioritize family...