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Japan club finds Kolbe replacement as Ireland star heads east

By Annemie Bester
Tuesday 9 Jun 2026

TRANSFER NEWS: Tokyo Sungoliath appear to have found their replacement for departing Springbok star Cheslin Kolbe, with Ireland wing James Lowe set to join the Japanese club ahead of the 2026-27 season.

Leinster have confirmed that Lowe will leave the club at the end of the season, ending weeks of speculation about the Ireland wing’s future following initial reports by RugbyPass.

Leinster host the Bulls in the United Rugby Championship Grand Final in a fortnight.

Lowe’s move comes as Sungoliath prepare for life after Kolbe, who is returning to South Africa to join the Stormers after another stellar season in Japan.

The Springbok flyer recently swept up three individual awards at the Japan Rugby League One prize-giving, including the honour of finishing as the competition’s leading points scorer with 185 points.

Lowe arrives with an equally impressive pedigree. The 33-year-old has been a key figure for Ireland and Leinster in recent seasons, establishing himself as one of the most dangerous wings in world rugby with his powerful carrying game, aerial ability and creative skillset.

His departure from Ireland comes after contract negotiations reportedly broke down. Despite Ireland coach Andy Farrell previously indicating that Lowe remained part of the national team’s long-term plans, the winger was unable to agree terms on a new deal.

For Sungoliath, the signing represents a major coup as they look to replace one of the league’s biggest stars. Lowe is expected to slot into a squad captained by former All Blacks skipper Sam Cane, with the club aiming to go one step further after reaching the League One semi-finals this season.

While Kolbe’s boots will be difficult to fill, Sungoliath have moved quickly to secure a proven international performer capable of making an immediate impact in Japanese rugby.

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Trending

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