Springbok legends to welcome Italian star as direct replacement for Wallaby lock
Italian star to join Faf de Klerk and Jesse Kriel as Japanese club builds all-star roster
Former Harlequins lock Dino Lamb has confirmed that he will be playing his rugby in Japan for the Yokohama Canon Eagles this coming season.
In an emotional post shared on his social media, Lamb credited his Quins coaches and support staff for believing, challenging and helping him over his 10 years at the club.
The Italian star also paid respect to the fans who have supported him along his journey, which has provided him with “a lifetime of memories.”
Dino Lamb statement
“One decade. One club. A lifetime of memories. Thank you, Quins,” he wrote.
“After ten incredible years at Harlequins, the time has come for a new chapter and to say goodbye, what an incredible journey it’s been.
“I arrived as a teenager with a dream. I leave as a man, shaped by this club, carrying friendships, memories, and experiences that will stay with me for life.
“From the very first day, Harlequins made me feel at home. We’ve faced challenges together, made history, and lifted the Premiership trophy (a moment I’ll cherish forever). The pride of wearing the Quins jersey, the roar of The Stoop, the brotherhood in the changing room, memories and experiences that will last a lifetime.
“To the coaches and support staff, thank you for believing in me, challenging me, and helping me grow both on and off the field. Your dedication and the work behind the scenes have played a huge role in shaping who I am today, as both a player and a person.
“To my teammates, thank you for everything. For the memories, the laughs, the hard-fought wins, and the tough lessons. We’ve shared a bond that only the game can build, and that will always mean something to me.
“To the fans, you are the heartbeat of this club! Your energy, your passion, your unwavering support through the highs and the lows, it’s been everything! Running out at The Stoop, hearing your voices, feeling that energy! It’s something I’ll carry with me wherever | go. You make this place truly special.
“To my family, thank you for being my rock. Your love, sacrifices, and support have been the foundation of everything. You taught me the value of hard work, of staying grounded, and always backing myself.
“To my girlfriend, Anje, thank you for standing by my side through every step, especially in the tough moments. Your strength and love have carried me more times than I can count.
“Now, a new chapter begins. I’m excited to share that my next chapter takes me to Japan, where I’ll be joining the Canon Eagles. A new culture, a fresh challenge and one I’m embracing with open arms.
“Harlequins will always be a part of me. Thank you for the journey. I’ll forever be proud to have called this place home.”
Yokohama Canon Eagles
Lamb will join Springbok stars Faf de Klerk and Jesse Kriel at the Division One Japanese side as they look to improve on their disappointing eighth-place finish in the table this season.
He joins the Yokohama-based team as a direct replacement for Wallabies lock Matt Philip, who has recently returned to Australia to play for New South Wales, becoming eligible for both the Waratahs and the Wallabies in the process.
“I’m stoked to be coming home,” Philip said at the time of signing. “To be able to represent my state of New South Wales and play in front of my family, friends and supporters next year is something I’m really looking forward to.
“Japan has been a great opportunity to continue to develop my game and grow off the field, but I’m certainly motivated to bring back my experience and contribute again to Australian Rugby.”
