Aphelele Fassi will join Toshiba Brave Lupus Tokyo for the 2027 Rugby League One season on a sabbatical arrangement, having recently signed a new deal with the Sharks. The 17-cap Springbok full-back is joined at the Tokyo club by Scotland back-rower Jack Dempsey and former All Blacks centre David Havili, who have both signed permanent contracts.
Dempsey arrives from Glasgow Warriors with 33 Scotland caps and 14 Wallaby caps to his name, while Havili makes the move from the Crusaders with 32 All Blacks appearances. Both Fassi and Havili's deals were confirmed alongside Dempsey's in a coordinated announcement from Brave Lupus, who have been active recruiters of Test-level talent — Richie Mo'unga is among those who have represented the club in recent seasons.
Fassi described the move as a chance to challenge himself on and off the field, with a focus on helping Brave Lupus compete for championships during his stint in Japan.