JUST IN :Another World Cup-winning Springbok’s move to Japan finally confirmed
Springboks flyer Kurt-Lee Arendse’s move to Japan has now been confirmed, with the winger penning a deal with the Mitsubishi Dynabours.
The Bulls man had announced his intention to play in Japan earlier this year, but the switch has now been confirmed.
He also becomes the latest Springbok to head over to Japan, with the likes of Jesse Kriel, Damian de Allende and Cheslin Kolbe also plying their trade in League One.
Kurt-Lee Arendse to Mitsubishi Dynabours
Commenting on the move, Arendse admitted he was ‘grateful for the opportunity’ to play out in Japan, saying: “I am incredibly excited to be joining Mitsubishi Sagamihara Dynaboars and grateful for the opportunity to represent such a great club.
“I want to thank the coaches and owners for trusting me with this chance, and I look forward to giving my absolute best for the success of the team.”
He added: “I’m eager to contribute on and off the field and can’t wait to make the Dynaboars fans proud. Let’s make this season a special one!”
The winger excelled for the Springboks in the recent Rugby Championship title – their first since 2019 – where he scored two tries in his four appearances across the tournament.
He has also featured in the URC for the Bulls since returning from international duty, and scored in their win over Ulster last weekend.
“Their approach to the game is going to suit me”
Arendse also touched on how the conditions will suit his style of play.
“The hard grounds in Japan and their approach to the game is going to suit me,” he said.
“Several of my Springboks teammates are in Japan and they all say the same thing: it’s a great experience playing there, but also living in the country as it is completely different from the path most South African players tread.
“I’m really looking forward to the rugby, but also the cultural side too. Hopefully I can make a difference for the Dynaboars, who I know are a well-regarded club in the League, did well last season and are ambitious about climbing up the table.”
The league campaign doesn’t get underway until December, where Arendse’s Dynabours take on Jasper Wiese’s Urayasu D-Rocks in the season opener.
Arendse is expected to return to the Bulls in time for the URC play-offs.
