“A leader. A Springbok. A Shark through and through.”

That was the part of the post by the Sharks on a social media account as they bid a 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 play in division one of Japan Rugby League One. 

The 31-year-old will return to Japan, pursuing his second stint, as he previously had a brief spell playing for Kobe Steelers in 2022, scoring three tries in six games. 

Am, who’s famous pass to Makazole Mapimi set South Africa up for a famous World Cup win in Yokohama in 2019, was a late call-up to the 2023 World Cup squad for the injured Mapimpi and is currently on standby for the Springboks’ end-of-year tour. 

He joined the Durban-based side from the Southern Kings in 2016 and has amassed over 100 appearances for the men in black and white. In his time with the Sharks, he won the Currie Cup and Challenge Cup. Am also captained the Sharks on many occasions, initially replacing the retiring Tendai ‘The Beast’ Mtawarira.

Am is joining a club coached by ex-Highlanders and Scarlets coach Glenn Delaney, and was represented last season by fellow Springbok Kurt-Lee Arendse.

Am will link up with fellow South Africans Pieter Scholtz, Friedle Olivier, Walt Steenkamp, and Gideon Koegelenberg. 

“I am very excited to be joining Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Sagamihara Dynaboars,” Am said to his new club, “I look forward to bringing my experience to the team and playing alongside my teammates and fans this season. See you all at the stadium!”

When they kick off their new campaign, in just over a month, Am will be squaring off against a familiar face, fellow Springbok Jasper Wiese, as Mitsubishi Dynaboars are set to take on Urayasu D-Rocks on 13 December. 

In an appreciative send-off, the rest of the Sharks’ social media post read,

“With over 100 caps to his name, we say thank you to Lukhanyo Am for his years of dedication, leadership, and excellence in the black and white.”

“You left an indelible mark on this club, both on and off the field. Wishing you every success as you embark on your next chapter in Japan.”