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Japanese club unveils two new Boks

Springboks Willie le Roux and Francois Hougaard said they are looking forward to their post-World Cup stint in Japan's Top League.

Tokyo-based club the Eagles revealed on Wednesday that the two Bok stars will join them in November for a three-month stint, before returning to South Africa.

It was revealed earlier this week that Le Roux will join the Sharks from the Cheetahs in February next year, while Hougaard will return to the Bulls in Pretoria.

However, they will both enjoy a brief 'sabbatical' in Japan, before returning to South African for Super Rugby.

The Eagles, founded in 1981, finished seventh in the 2014/15 Top League and are determined to win their country's premier domestic competition.

The team will be coached by former Springbok lock Albert van den Berg. The 41-year-old Van den Berg, who played 51 Tests between 1999 and 2007, is also former player of the Eagles. He will replace New Zealander Zane Hilton.Japanese club unveils two new Boks

"I am looking forward to my stint in Japan and at the Eagles," Le Roux said in an interview on the Japanese club's website.

"The Top League has gathered players from all over the world and I have heard a lot about it from the South African players who competed in the league.

"We [Hougaard and Le Roux] want to make a contribution to the Eagles' drive to win the league."

Hougaard said he is also looking forward to his move to Japan.

"We have watched videos of the past two seasons of the Top League and the skill level is very high," the Bok utility back said, adding: "They have a strong passion [for the game].

"We're looking forward to playing in a new environment.

"I will do my best to help the Eagles to win the league."

 

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