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Pieter-Steph du Toit returning to South Africa after early Verblitz release

The Springbok loose forward leaves Japan after five seasons in Rugby League One, saying he wanted to avoid travelling between two countries during the coming season.

By RuckBee Newsroom1 min read
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Springbok loose forward Pieter-Steph du Toit is heading home, after Toyota Verblitz granted him an early release from his contract. The move ends five seasons in Japan's Rugby League One.

Du Toit said the club had been accommodating. "They were understanding of my situation and kindly agreed to an early release from my contract."

His reason was family. He said he did not want to be separated from his family or travel back and forth between Japan and South Africa during the upcoming season.

Du Toit's return comes as other Springbok names settle their futures. Malcolm Marx and Kwagga Smith have signed with the Bulls, and Manie Libbok will join the Sharks in 2027.

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