“A leader. A Springbok. A Shark through and through.”
That was part of the post by the Sharks on social media as they bid farewell to Lukhanyo Am, confirming his departure.
The two-time World Cup winner is headed to Japan to join Mitsubishi Sagamihara Dynaboars, who have confirmed his signing. Am will participate in division one of Japan Rugby League One.
The 31-year-old is returning to Japan for his second stint, having previously played for Kobe Steelers in 2022, where he scored three tries in six games.
Am is renowned for his pivotal pass to Makazole Mapimi, which secured South Africa’s World Cup victory in Yokohama in 2019. More recently, he was a late addition to the 2023 World Cup squad following an injury to Mapimpi and is currently on standby for the Springboks’ end-of-year tour.
Having joined the Durban-based Sharks from the Southern Kings in 2016, Am has made over 100 appearances for the team, winning both the Currie Cup and Challenge Cup. He has also served as captain on many occasions, taking over from retiring legend Tendai ‘The Beast’ Mtawarira.
His new club, coached by ex-Highlanders and Scarlets coach Glenn Delaney, was represented last season by fellow Springbok Kurt-Lee Arendse. At Mitsubishi, Am will connect with South African teammates Pieter Scholtz, Friedle Olivier, Walt Steenkamp, and Gideon Koegelenberg.
“I am very excited to be joining Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Sagamihara Dynaboars,” Am expressed,
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