Jesse Kriel extends Japan stay as Springbok teammates prioritise family over big contracts

The likes of Faf de Klerk, Cheslin Kolbe, Malcolm Marx, Kwagga Smith and Manie Libbok have all recently signed contracts to retuen to various franchises in South Africa, with Pieter-Steph du Toit and Damian de Allende heavily rumoured to be following suit.

However, Kriel is enjoying his time in Japan and will remain there for the foreseeable future after penning a new deal with the Yokohama Canon Eagles, where he has played since 2020.

"I have just signed for a further two years in Japan, until June 2028," Kriel told the media this week.

"Many of the guys who are going home are doing so to spend more time with their families. They don't want to miss big occasions such as their children's first days at school or sports days," said Kriel.

"I'm not married and I don't have a family, so it's easier for me because I don't have those responsibilities. I'm also really enjoying my rugby in Japan."

"I spent every day with Cheslin in Japan and he was on FaceTime with his children every single day. It started becoming too much for him, which I can understand," he said.

"At that point, it's about more than just the biggest contract.

"Those players want to spend time with their children. They prefer a different kind of happiness - happiness doesn't come only with a big contract. Sometimes it's simply being able to watch your children grow up."

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