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Springbok Grant Williams' new club confirmed as 19-cap All Black joins him
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Newly-crowned Japan Rugby League One champions Kobelco Kobe Steelers have moved quickly to strengthen their squad ahead of the 2026/27 season, confirming the signings of South Africa’s Grant Williams and former All Black George Bridge.
The Steelers were crowned champions earlier this month after beating Kubota Spears 22-13 in the final, but will begin the defence of their title under new leadership following Dave Rennie’s departure to take charge of New Zealand. Former All Blacks assistant Wayne Smith is set to take over at the Kobe-based club.
The 29-year-old scrum-half, who is capable of playing on the wing, has won 28 caps for South Africa and was part of the Bok squad that lifted the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France. After spending his entire professional career with the Sharks, the No.9 will now test himself in Japan for the first time.
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Joining him is 19-cap All Black George Bridge, who has signed a two-year deal. The outside back enjoyed a decorated spell with the Crusaders before moving to Montpellier in France and most recently represented the Western Force in Super Rugby. The 31-year-old has not played for New Zealand since 2021 but brings a wealth of top-level experience.
“I am incredibly excited and honoured to be joining the Kobelco Kobe Steelers from the 2026/27 season,” said Williams, who is set to start at scrum-half for the Springboks this Saturday against the Barbarians.
“I’ve heard so many great things about both the club and the city, and I can’t wait to meet all of the Steel Mates and represent Kobe. This is going to be an exciting new chapter in my career, and I’m looking forward to every moment with the Kobe Steelers.”
Bridge added: “I am very happy and honoured to be joining the Kobelco Kobe Steelers for the next two seasons.
“Through my previous visits to Japan, I became deeply drawn to the culture and the people, and I had always hoped that one day I would return to play here again. I am sincerely looking forward to meeting my teammates, the staff, and all of the fans.”
