Stormers, Bulls miss out as Bok lock heads to Japan

Springbok lock Lood de Jager looks set to further his career in Japan.

It was recently announced that De Jager would leave English club Sale Sharks and there were talks he could join either the Stormers or Bulls.

However, Afrikaans newspaper Rapport reported on Sunday that De Jager will be heading to Japan.

The 29-year-old couldn't confirm which Japanese club but did acknowledge he left Sale due to family reasons.

The Japanese season is much shorter (January-May) and this will afford De Jager the opportunity for more family time.

"Covid-19 gave a new perspective about what is important in life. We'd like our kids to spend more time with the family," De Jager said.

De Jager, who has played 54 Tests for the Springboks, joined Sale from the Bulls in 2019.

Meanwhile, De Jager's Springbok team-mate at Sale, Faf de Klerk, will also join a Japanese club.

De Klerk's new club is also not confirmed but it is believed that the Canon Eagles are the favourites to win his signature.

The 30-year-old, who boasts 36 Tests, joined Sale from the Lions in 2017.