2 Faf de Klerk (£900,000 – Yokohama Canon Eagles, Japan)
Renowned for his fiery competitiveness and tireless work rate, Faf de Klerk continues to capitalise on his global popularity in Japan. The Springbok scrum-half earns close to £900,000 with Yokohama Canon Eagles, making him one of the highest-paid players in League One.
A key figure in South Africa’s World Cup victories in 2019 and 2023, de Klerk remains in demand, with rumours linking him to a return to Sale Sharks. However, salary cap restrictions could prevent him from matching his current earnings.
1 Cheslin Kolbe (£930,000 – Tokyo Sungoliath, Japan)
At the top of the list is Cheslin Kolbe, whose breathtaking footwork and match-winning flair have made him the highest-paid player in Japan Rugby League One. Earning an estimated £930,000 with Tokyo Sungoliath, Kolbe has redefined attacking rugby with his ability to influence games from wing, fullback and even fly-half.
A two-time World Cup winner with South Africa, he has also enjoyed success across club rugby in France and South Africa, collecting domestic and European honours along the way. Widely regarded as one of the best players of his generation, Kolbe’s salary places him among the highest earners in world rugby.
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