Springboks: Top players are returning home

Although it has become commonplace for top South African rugby players to head overseas, and quite recently there have been a few announcements about Springbok stars leaving SA shores after this season, it shouldn’t be forgotten that there are others returning to Mzansi.

The likes of Ruan Nortje, Salmaan Moerat and Grant Williams have all recently signed contracts for overseas, but let’s take a look at those who are returning to South Africa.

Homecoming for these Springbok and SA rugby players

Thomas du Toit is one of the biggest returning names. Recently named in the World Rugby Dream Team of the Year, the in-form prop has officially confirmed he will leave Bath at the end of this season to head back to the Sharks.

In another major move, Faf de Klerk actually turned down lucrative overseas offers and will instead head to the Cheetahs, where his former Springbok teammate – and now Cheetahs boss – pulled off a major coup to secure the necessary funds to bring the iconic scrumhalf back home.

Earlier this season, dynamic loose forward Hacjivah Dayimani returned to the Stormers from France, where he had a mixed stint with Racing 92 in Paris.

Former Junior Springbok Hendré Stassen, who left the Stormers at the end of 2024, is set to return to South Africa after receiving approval from French club Brive to join the Sharks ahead of the Currie Cup. 

Former Springbok centre Jan Serfontein quite recently returned to the Bulls from Montpellier, while Nicolaas Janse van Rensburg also headed back to the Pretoria-based side last year.

Are there any other returning players we might have missed?

Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article.