5. Eben Etzebeth (Hollywoodbets Sharks) – Estimated £770,000
The most-capped Springbok in history remains the cornerstone of the Sharks pack. His combination of club earnings and national support keeps him among the highest-paid players in South African rugby.
4. Siya Kolisi (Hollywoodbets Sharks) – Estimated £775,000
The Springbok captain returned to Durban on a bumper deal after his spell in France. Combined with his immense commercial value and sponsorship appeal, Kolisi remains one of the biggest earners in the global game.
3. Malcolm Marx (Kubota Spears) – Estimated £800,000–£900,000
Widely regarded as the best hooker in world rugby, Marx continues to be one of Japan Rugby League One’s marquee signings. His dominance at the set-piece and breakdown has made him one of the highest-paid forwards in the sport.
2. Damian de Allende (Saitama Wild Knights) – Estimated £850,000–£950,000
The powerful centre has been a standout performer in Japan for several seasons. A two-time Rugby World Cup winner and one of the world’s most complete midfielders, De Allende is believed to be among the competition’s top earners.
1. Faf de Klerk (Free State Cheetahs) – Previously reported at around £900,000 in Japan
Before returning to South Africa in 2026, De Klerk was widely regarded as one of the highest-paid players in world rugby thanks to his lucrative deal with Yokohama Canon Eagles. While his move back to the Cheetahs is believed to have involved a significant pay cut, his previous contract remains one of the richest ever awarded to a Springbok.
EDITORS PICKS: