Lions back-row Kwagga Smith will leave the Johannesburg-based franchise on a temporary basis after joining Japanese club Yamaha Jubilo.
The 25-year-old, who made his Test debut for the Springboks against Wales last month, signed a short-term contract with the Top League outfit which means he will not be part of the Golden Lions’ Currie Cup campaign later this year.
Smith confirmed the news on Yamaha Jubilo’s official website on Friday.
“I am honoured to be joining the Yamaha family as the next step of my rugby career and am convinced that playing for a team like Yamaha will help me to grow as a player,” he said.
“I have visited Japan, it is a very beautiful country and I am very impressed with the culture. My wife is looking forward to living in Japan.
“I will try my best to make a big contribution to the team and to win the Top League.”