Sharks flyer Aphelele Fassi the latest Bok set for stint in Japan

The 28-year-old is set to pick up with an undisclosed Japanese club after his Springbok commitments for the next Japan League One season, only returning to Durban for the remainder of his contract in July 2027.

"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," tweeted the franchise on Friday.

"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.

"We’re incredibly proud of the journey he has taken and look forward to welcoming him back home in July 2027."

The Bok bolter only managed six games with the Sharks this season before a shoulder injury and subsequent surgery saw him sidelined for months.

Fortunately for the Durban franchise, there is plenty of talent waiting in the wings to fill the void. Junior Springbok stars Luan Giliomee, Jaco Williams and outrageously talented teenager Zekhethelo Siyaya and are on the Sharks' books, as is Springbok Edwill van der Merwe, who can be employed at fullback.