Fassi ready to 'step outside his comfort zone'
REACTION: The departure from the Sharks of 15-times capped Springbok Aphelele Fassi is not ‘breaking news’. His new club is.
It was confirmed on Thursday that Fassi, 28, will join Brave Lupus in Japan on a short-term stint for the 2026-27 Rugby League One season.
Fassi, who made his Bok debut against Georgia at Loftus Versfeld in July 2021, will arrive at Fuchū, a city in the Tokyo Prefecture of Japan, following the conclusion of his international commitments with the Springboks later this year.
The sabbatical forms part of his recently renewed contract with the Sharks, ensuring his return to Durban in July 2027.
He is one of three internationals signed by Brave Lupus.
Jack Dempsey (from Glasgow Warriors), David Havili (Crusaders) and Fassi (Sharks) will all play in Fuchū next season.
Fassi, a mainstay at Kings Park since 2018, described his move as a “unique opportunity” to experience a new culture and embrace a different way of life.
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“I want to challenge myself both on and off the field,” Fassi said.
“I’ve always believed that the best experiences come from stepping outside your comfort zone, and I’m looking forward to immersing myself in everything that Japan has to offer.”
Fassi joins a Japanese club renowned for its rich history and passionate fanbase in Tokyo.
“Toshiba is a club with a proud history and passionate supporters, and it’s a privilege to become part of that,” Fassi added.
“I can’t wait to meet the fans, build relationships within the community, and hopefully give them plenty to cheer about.
“Their passion is a huge part of what makes rugby so special, and I’m excited to experience that firsthand.
“On the field, my focus is simple: to work hard every day, contribute to the team’s success in any way I can, and help the club compete for championships.
“I’ll be giving everything I have for the jersey and look forward to learning from my teammates and coaches along the way.”
Fassi’s Japan sabbatical has the full support of the Sharks.
“This is a fantastic milestone for Aphelele as he enters the prime of his career,” said Matt Norton, Head of Rugby at Roc Nation Sports International.
“Aligning this Japanese sabbatical with his long-term future at the Sharks gives him the perfect platform to test himself in a world-class environment, experience a brilliant new culture, and return to South Africa an even more complete player.”
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