05/11/2025 13:01
South Africa's World Cup-winning center, Lukhanyo Am, has officially left the Sharks to join the Mitsubishi Sagamihara Dynaboars in Japan's Rugby League One, effective immediately. This move marks Am's second stint in Japan, having previously played for the Kobelco Kobe Steelers in 2022.
Am, 31, has been a pivotal player for the Sharks since joining in 2016, even captaining the team at Kings Park, and is celebrated for his defensive prowess, attacking flair, and tactical intelligence. His international debut for South Africa was in 2016, and he was a key figure in their 2019 Rugby World Cup triumph.
The Dynaboars, who finished ninth in the top division last season, will kick off their new campaign on December 13 against the Urayasu D-Rocks. Am expressed his excitement about joining the team, stating, "I look forward to bringing my experience to the team and playing alongside my teammates and fans this season." The Sharks acknowledged his departure with gratitude, highlighting his over 100 caps and indelible mark on the club. Am is currently on the standby list for the Springboks' Autumn Nations Series campaign.