Pieter-Steph du Toit named in the starting XV for his Japan Rugby League One debut

Springbok flanker and 2019 World Rugby Player of the Year, Pieter-Steph du Toit will make his return from injury this weekend debuting for Japan Rugby League One side Toyota Verblitz.

The Rugby World Cup winner makes his debut for the Japanese club having joined the side from the Stormers ahead of the new season. 

Du Toit returns to the rugby pitch having recovered from a shoulder injury during the 2021 British and Irish Lions Series where he was forced off the pitch in the second test. He was subsequently ruled out of the third test as well as South Africa's Rugby Championship campaign and tour to the United Kingdom in November. 

Since helping the Springboks to Rugby World Cup glory in Japan, du Toit has struggled with injuries as he was sidelined in early 2020 with a serious injury that almost saw him lose his leg.

The 29-year-old was initially set to join Irish Province Munster but the deal was reportedly vetoed by the Irish Rugby Football Union meaning du Toit joined the Japanese club.

All Blacks lock Patrick Tuipulotu also features in the Verblitz side who take on Suntory Sungoliath on Sunday in a replay of last season's semi-final, which Suntory won 36-39.

Wallabies centre Samu Kerevi starts in the midfield for Suntory with All Blacks playmaker Damian McKenzie at fullback.