Kurt-Lee Arendse ready for new adventure as he takes his talents to Japan

The Bulls man had announced his intention to play in Japan earlier this year, but the switch has now been confirmed.

Arendse becomes the latest Springbok to head to the Land of the Rising Sun, following the likes of Jesse Kriel, Damian de Allende, Malcolm Marx, Kwagga Smith and Cheslin Kolbe who all ply their trade in League One.

"I am incredibly excited to be joining Mitsubishi Sagamihara Dynaboars and grateful for the opportunity to represent such a great club," Arendse said in commenting on his move.

"I want to thank the coaches and owners for trusting me with this chance, and I look forward to giving my absolute best for the success of the team."

He added: "I'm eager to contribute on and off the field and can't wait to make the Dynaboars fans proud. Let's make this season a special one!"

The winger excelled for the Springboks in the recent Rugby Championship title â- their first since 2019 â- scoring two tries in his four appearances across the tournament.

He has also featured in the URC for the Bulls since returning from international duty, and scored in their win over Ulster last weekend.

Arendse reckons the conditions in Japan will suit his style of play.

"The hard grounds in Japan and their approach to the game is going to suit me," he said.

"Several of my Springboks teammates are in Japan and they all say the same thing: it's a great experience playing there, but also living in the country as it is completely different from the path most South African players tread.

"I'm really looking forward to the rugby, but also the cultural side too. Hopefully I can make a difference for the Dynaboars, who I know are a well-regarded club in the League, did well last season and are ambitious about climbing up the table."

The league campaign doesn't get underway until December, where Arendse's Dynabours take on Jasper Wiese's Urayasu D-Rocks in the season opener.

Arendse is expected to return to the Bulls in time for the URC play-offs next year.

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