The Yokohama Canon Eagles have broken new ground in Japanese rugby after appointing a foreign player as their club captain for the first time in history.
That honour goes to Springbok star Jesse Kriel, who will lead the Eagles into the new Japan Rugby League One season – his seventh campaign with the Yokohama-based side since joining from the Bulls in 2020.
Kriel, 31, adds another milestone to his decorated career, having earlier this year become the 67th player to captain South Africa, when he led the Springboks against Italy at Loftus Versfeld.
“It’s a huge honour to lead the Yokohama Canon Eagles,” said Kriel. “This club has become a special part of my journey, and I’m incredibly proud to lead such a talented and hard-working group of players. There are many strong leaders in the group that will help steer the team in a winning direction.”
The Eagles, coached by Keisuke Sawaki, finished in the top half of the table last season and have strengthened their squad ahead of the new campaign.
Photo: Michael Steele/Getty Images
The post Bok centre makes history in Japan appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
The Yokohama Canon Eagles have broken new ground in Japanese rugby after appointing a foreign player as their club captain for the first time in history.
The post Bok centre makes history in Japan appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
