Faf de Klerk says he has no regrets about returning to South Africa after a decade playing in England and Japan, with the two-time World Cup winner now settled at the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein and back in the Springbok squad.
De Klerk's recall has been accelerated by injuries to Cobus Reinach, Jaden Hendrikse and Morné van den Berg, but he insists the move home was driven by more than international ambition. He turned down more lucrative overseas contracts to sign with the Cheetahs, citing proximity to family and a desire to contribute to rebuilding rugby in the Free State.
"When we fly home, I can fly to Bloemfontein and I'm home. I'm not going to have to do another massive trip to get somewhere. So, the family's happy and I travel less," De Klerk said. "It's a win-win and with the new club, there's a lot of stuff that we need to do there and build on."
Having missed most of the 2024 season through injury and featured in only two Tests in 2025, De Klerk is aware of the work ahead to reclaim the No. 9 jersey. "My main goal will always be to play well for my club and then hopefully earn the opportunity to play for the Springboks. That's always the number one thing I strive for, but I'm very, very glad to be back in South Africa."
De Klerk has already attended training sessions with the Cheetahs but is currently focused on the Springbok camp after being included in Rassie Erasmus' squad for the upcoming Tests.