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Grant Williams unveils his new Japanese club

By Leezil Hendricks
Wednesday 17 Jun 2026
Grant williams v England

TRANSFER NEWS: Springbok scrumhalf Grant Williams has officially revealed where he will continue his career next season.

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The 29-year-old will join Japanese outfit Kobelco Kobe Steelers ahead of the 2026-27 Japan Rugby League One campaign.

Williams confirmed his departure from the Sharks in April, but only unveiled his new club on Wednesday.

*READ: Springboks forced into flyhalf rethink as Quan Horn gets the nod

The dynamic No 9 has been a key figure in the Sharks setup in recent seasons. While his departure leaves a significant void, the Durban franchise has moved swiftly to bolster its scrumhalf stocks by securing the services of former Bulls playmaker Ivan van Zyl.

“I am deeply honoured and very excited to be joining the Kobelco Kobe Steelers starting in the 2026-27 season,” Williams said via the club’s official Instagram account.

“I’ve heard a lot of great things about the club and the city of Kobe, and I’m looking forward to meeting all the Steel Mates and playing for Kobe.

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“I’m excited for this new challenge, and I’m looking forward to all the time I’ll spend as a member.

“This is going to be an exciting new chapter in my career, and I’m looking forward to every moment.”

Williams is not the only Springbok set for a move to Japan. Bulls and Bok stars Kurt-Lee Arendse and Ruan Nortjé have also signed deals with Japanese clubs for next season.

Meanwhile, reports continue to link Sharks fullback Aphelele Fassi with a move to Japan.

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According to multiple reports, Fassi has been granted a sabbatical to join a Japanese club and is expected to return to South Africa in June next year.

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