Springboks scrum-half Grant Williams has officially confirmed his move to Japanese club Kobelco Kobe Steelers after leaving the Sharks.
Join RUCK’s Instagram broadcast channel and get the latest rugby news straight to your phone.
The transfer was announced by both Williams and the club on Instagram. Although Williams revealed in April that he would be departing the Sharks, he only confirmed his next destination today.
The Durban-based side have already secured a replacement, signing Ivan van Zyl from Saracens ahead of the new season.
Williams arrived in Durban in 2017, joining amateur outfit College Rovers. His performances quickly caught the attention of the Sharks, who brought him into their squad in early 2018 as injury cover for Louis Schreuder.
View this post on Instagram
He made his Super Rugby debut in February 2018, coming off the bench for Michael Claassens during the Sharks’ opening match of the season against the Lions. He entered the field in the 60th minute, replacing Cameron Wright.
Part of South Africa’s 2023 Rugby World Cup-winning squad, Williams has built a reputation for his explosive speed, sharp acceleration and dangerous counter-attacking ability. He is also capable of playing on the wing when needed.
Speaking after completing the move, Williams said, “I am incredibly excited and honoured to be joining the Kobelco Kobe Steelers from the 2026/27 season.
“I’ve heard so many great things about both the club and the city, and I can’t wait to meet all of the Steel Mates and represent Kobe. This is going to be an exciting new chapter in my career, and I’m looking forward to every moment with the Kobe Steelers.”
Williams will join a growing group of Springboks playing in Japan, including Malcolm Marx and Pieter-Steph du Toit. However, he will not have the chance to face Cheslin Kolbe in the league, with the star winger set to return to the Stormers before next season.
