The world’s most recognisable scrum-half talks haircuts, this year’s British & Irish Lions tour and why Sale are desperate to beat the Scarlets in the Champions Cup
There are plenty of big issues to discuss with Faf de Klerk but first things first. Exactly how much is South Africa’s diminutive blond bombshell looking forward to the return of hairdressing salons? “It’s been a nightmare,” he replies, exhaling slowly. “I’m so keen for them to reopen. I’ve pretty much always had long hair but it’s too long now. I’ve been trying all sorts – tying it up, alice bands – but it’s been annoying. I’m very excited.”
It is easy to understand Faf’s impatience, in every sense, to revisit his roots. South Africa won the Rugby World Cup 17 months ago, since when the Springboks have not played a single Test. The 29-year-old last saw his parents back home a year ago and has spent a wintry lockdown living on his own in Manchester. Even his typically ebullient nature – “It’s been pretty hard” – has been sorely tested.
