De Klerk Opens Up On Cheetahs Move And International Future
Springbok scrumhalf Faf de Klerk says his return to South African rugby has reignited his passion for the game as he enters the latter stages of his illustrious career.
Having spent much of the last decade playing abroad, De Klerk recently committed his future to the Cheetahs on a two-year deal starting in June — a move that not only brings him closer to home but also allows him to spend more time with his family.
The 34-year-old admitted that the excitement of being back in South Africa has given him renewed energy and motivation to extend his career with the national side.
“It’s an amazing feeling to be called up once again. Once you lose that feeling, you should rather stop,” said De Klerk.
“Everything I try to do at my club is to prove that I am still good enough to be here, so yes, I was very excited.”
De Klerk has established himself as a cornerstone of the Springbok setup and has played a pivotal role across his 60 Test caps, helping South Africa secure back-to-back Rugby World Cup titles in 2019 and 2023, as well as a historic British and Irish Lions series victory in 2021.
For De Klerk, there is a palpable sense of relief that a trip home now means a short flight to Bloemfontein rather than a journey halfway across the world.
“Tomorrow, when I fly home, I can fly to Bloem, and I’m home. I don’t need to undergo more massive travel to get home. The family is happy, and I travel less, so it’s a win-win.”
“With the new club, there is a lot that we need to do and build on, so I am excited to help as much as I can. Our main goal is to play well for your club and then earn the opportunity to play for the Springboks, and that remains the number one thing I strive for.”
The Springboks boast exceptional depth at scrumhalf, with Grant Williams and Cobus Reinach having firmly established themselves in the matchday 23. The recent inclusion of Embrose Papier has added further competition, while the injured Morne van den Berg and Jaden Hendrikse remain firmly in contention once they return to full fitness.
Beyond the established names, players such as Nico Steyn continue to impress at domestic level, while highly rated youngsters Haashim Pead and Imad Khan represent the next generation of talent emerging through the South African rugby ranks.
With quality options spread across experienced internationals, proven domestic performers and exciting prospects, the battle for the Springboks’ number nine jersey is more competitive than ever.
While his achievements at both club and international level speak for themselves, De Klerk insists that nothing can be taken for granted.
“The important thing is to train and play well enough to continue staying here.”
“I am very glad to be back in South Africa.”
