Sayonara, Sharks: Grant Williams confirms Japan move

Sayonara, Sharks: Grant Williams confirms Japan move

The departure of Springbok and Sharks scrumhalf Grant Williams to Japan was confirmed on Monday.

Williams' move to the Land of the Rising Sun has been speculated for some time now, but the Sharks put an end to the rumours with a social media post on Monday.

"Grant Williams will depart at the end of the season as he heads to Japan," it read.

"Wishing you all the best on your next chapter."

As per usual, the unknown club will announce the signing of Williams in due course. The 28-cap Bok is another blockbuster addition to the plethora of superstars now plying their trade in Japan League One.

The 29-year-old Williams has arguably emerged as the leading Bok scrumhalf under coach Rassie Erasmus, with his accurate kicking, fast distribution and truly exceptional pace on display every match.

The Paarl native played in 11 of the 14 Test matches last season despite Erasmus' extensive player rotation strategy.

The Sharks will perhaps miss the nippy No.9 the most. Williams has played his entire professional career with the Durban franchise since joining in 2017. They will now look to Jaden Hendrikse and Bradley Davids to fill the void. 

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