Faf de Klerk

Faf de Klerk is one of rugby union's top stars. A strong and powerful scrum-half, he's notched several notable performances for South Africa and Sale over the years and notably won the Rugby World Cup with his country in 2019.

Born on 19 October 1991, Faf de Klerk played rugby at high school in Pretoria. After his talents were spotted, he represented both the Blue Bulls and the Golden Lions at youth level. Following this, he joined the Pumas and competed in the Currie Cup from 2012 to 2015.

In 2014, Faf de Klerk was selected for the Lions squad in Super Rugby. He played for the Lions for four years, putting in some outstanding performances for the side in his 65 appearances. Following his successful stint with the Lions, he signed for the Sale Sharks in 2017, where he has stayed ever since. During this period, he's been a talisman for the side in the Premiership and European competitions.

Due to his form in Super Rugby for the Lions, Faf de Klerk was first selected to represent South Africa in 2016. Although he was briefly ineligible to play for the national team after he signed for Sale, a rule change in 2018 saw his return to the squad. Since, he's never looked back and he's now a mainstay in the team.

After being an integral part of South Africa's victorious 2019 Rugby Championship campaign, Faf de Klerk was selected for the 2019 Rugby World Cup and he started in the final, which South Africa won 32-12.

Following success at the World Cup in Japan, de Klerk continued to perform well for Sale Sharks, making significant contributions in both the Premiership and in Europe.

Recognised as a huge name in rugby and one of the most influential scrum halves in the sport, de Klerk made a high-profile move to Yokohama Canon Eagles in Japan Rugby League One in 2022. His move not only bolstered their squad but added to the quality of the league and followed the trend of big-name players moving to Japan.

On the international scene, de Klerk continued to be a key player for South Africa, namely with their successful 2021 British & Irish Lions series win and his performances in the 2023 Rugby Championship, reaffirming his status as one of the best in the game.

The year culminated in South Africa going back-to-back, winning Rugby World Cup 2023 in France with de Klerk yet again starting in the final. 

South Africa beat New Zealand 12-11, taking their tally of World Cup titles to four, with the All Blacks on three, Australia on two and England on one.