The Cheetahs have pulled off one of the most sensational signings in their history, securing the services of two-time Rugby World Cup winner Faf de Klerk on a two-year deal. The diminutive scrumhalf with an outsized impact confirmed his return to South African rugby on Sunday, ready to inject his winning mentality into the Bloemfontein-based franchise.
De Klerk’s arrival at Toyota Stadium represents more than just a marquee signing, it’s a statement of intent from a union determined to reclaim its place amongst South African rugby’s elite. The 33-year-old brings a treasure trove of silverware, international pedigree, and the battle-hardened experience of conquering rugby’s greatest stages.
“We are beyond excited to welcome Faf to the Cheetahs family,” said the Cheetahs’ leadership. “His tenacity on the field and his leadership off it are exactly what we need as we continue to compete at the highest level. Faf is a player who changes the tempo of a game, and we know our supporters are eager to see him in the orange jersey.”
A winner returns home
De Klerk has established himself as a cornerstone of the modern Springbok era, his name synonymous with the green and gold’s resurgence to world dominance. Known for his abrasive defensive style, pinpoint tactical kicking, and high hanging box kicks, the Nelspruit-born halfback was instrumental in both the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup triumphs.
His contribution extends beyond those Webb Ellis Trophy lifts. De Klerk played a critical role in the Springboks’ epic 2-1 series victory over the British & Irish Lions in 2021, delivering a masterclass in breakdown disruption and territory management that left the tourists frustrated and defeated.
At just 1.72 metres tall, De Klerk has never allowed his stature to define his influence. Instead, he’s built a reputation as one of the game’s most ferocious competitors, a scrumhalf who tackles like a flanker, kicks like a flyhalf, and competes with the intensity of a man possessed.
The journey to Bloemfontein
De Klerk makes the move from Japan, where he’s represented Canon Eagles, now rebranded as Yokohama Canon Eagles, since 2022. The Japanese sojourn followed a distinguished stint in the English Premiership, where he amassed over 100 appearances for Sale Sharks.
It was at Sale where De Klerk truly announced himself on the global stage, forming one of the Premiership’s most formidable halfback partnerships and earning a reputation as one of the competition’s fiercest competitors. His performances in Manchester caught the eye of then-Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus, who built much of his 2019 World Cup-winning gameplan around De Klerk’s strengths.
Now, De Klerk returns to his homeland at a crucial juncture for the Cheetahs. The Free State franchise has faced challenges in recent years, navigating the complexities of South African rugby’s evolving landscape whilst striving to maintain competitiveness.
What De Klerk brings to the table
The impact of De Klerk’s arrival cannot be overstated. Beyond the try assists and territorial gains, he brings an intangible quality that separates good teams from great ones, a winning mentality forged in rugby’s most pressurised cauldrons.
His defensive prowess remains elite. De Klerk has never shied away from putting his body on the line, regularly chopping down opponents twice his size with textbook tackle technique and uncompromising aggression. That dog-at-the-bone approach has become a trademark, inspiring teammates and intimidating opposition.
Cheetahs’ statement of intent
The signing represents the Cheetahs’ most significant player acquisition in years, signalling genuine ambition from a union determined to punch above its weight.
For the Free State faithful, starved of genuine star power in recent seasons, De Klerk’s arrival offers renewed hope. The prospect of watching a double World Cup winner orchestrate proceedings from the base of the scrum will undoubtedly fill Toyota Stadium with anticipation and expectation.
De Klerk’s homecoming also serves South African rugby’s broader interests. With several Springbok stars plying their trade abroad, the return of a double World Cup winner strengthens the domestic competition’s appeal and quality. It provides aspiring young scrumhalves with a world-class benchmark to measure themselves against week in, week out.
His presence in the Currie Cup and any expanded competitions the Cheetahs participate in will elevate the standard, force opponents to raise their game, and potentially inspire other Springbok internationals to consider similar homecomings.
De Klerk is expected to arrive in Bloemfontein ahead of the new season, with the Cheetahs planning a formal unveiling for their new talisman. The coaching staff will be salivating at the prospect of integrating such an experienced campaigner into their game plan.
Questions remain about his role within the Springbok setup moving forward, but De Klerk has shown no signs of international retirement. His return to South African rugby actually enhances his accessibility to national team selectors, potentially extending his Test career beyond the current 51 caps.
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