Springbok fullback Aphelele Fassi will spend the 2026-27 season in Japan after agreeing a temporary move away from the Sharks, with the Durban-based franchise confirming he will return to the club in 2027.
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Fassi has spent his entire professional career with the Sharks after emerging through the club’s system, progressing from the Currie Cup side to become a regular at franchise level and an international representative for South Africa.
The 28-year-old has earned 15 Test caps for the Springboks.
Confirming the arrangement on X, the Sharks said, “As part of Aphelele Fassi’s renewed contract with The Sharks, he will take up an exciting opportunity in Japan for the 2026/27 season following the conclusion of his Springbok commitments.
“Having grown through The Sharks system since joining out of school in 2018, Aphelele has become a proud product of The Sharks family.
“This opportunity will allow him to experience a new rugby environment, embrace a different culture and continue growing both on and off the field.
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“We’re incredibly proud of the journey he has taken and look forward to welcoming him back home in July 2027.”
Fassi is the latest Springbok to secure a short-term move to Japan, following similar deals involving teammate Grant Williams and Bulls players Kurt-Lee Arendse and Ruan Nortjé.
His absence will leave the Sharks without their first-choice fullback for next season, although promising youngster Zekhethelo Siyaya has impressed since making the step up to senior rugby.
The identity of the Japanese club Fassi will join has not yet been announced.
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