South Africa hooker Malcolm Marx is returning to Japan to join Top League side Kubota Spears.
The Rugby World Cup winner took the opportunity to opt out of his contract with Super Rugby side the Lions in May after players were given the option as part of cost-cutting measures due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Marx became a free agent and has decided to continue his career in the country where he lifted the Webb Ellis Cup last year.
The 26-year-old had a spell with the Shining Arcs in Japan last season after taking a six-month sabbatical following the Springboks' World Cup triumph.
Marx joins a Funabashi-based franchise coached by his compatriot Frans Ludeke.
The uncompromising Marx, who has 33 caps to his name, had to settle for a place on the bench for the World Cup final as Bongi Mbonambi got the nod to start against England.
