Springbok superstar Cheslin Kolbe’s immediate future has been determined.
A popular return for the Springbok superstar to Cape Town is on ice – at least for now.
Despite strong interest from the Stormers, Kolbe is set to honour his contract in Japan with the Suntory Sungoliath.
Kolbe, a double World Cup winner, has been repeatedly linked with a homecoming since leaving the Stormers in 2017. His career has since taken him to Toulouse and Toulon, before settling in Japan in 2023.
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Stormers director of rugby John Dobson has made no secret of his desire to bring Kolbe back.
“Cheslin is someone we will definitely talk to. He is one of us. We believe he can fill a leadership role and play until 2029,” he told Netwerk24.
But for now, the move is off the table.
According to Roc Nation Sports International president Michael Yormark, Kolbe remains fully committed to his deal in Japan, which runs through to the end of the 2026-27 season.
“For the foreseeable future, that is where he will be,” Yormark told The Star.
“It is a great opportunity for him. A couple of years out from the World Cup, you start thinking about what that final chapter might look like. I think every player wants to come home. However, that is something Cheslin, [wife] Layla and the family will consider at the appropriate time. Right now, his career is in Japan.”
Yormark added that Kolbe has settled seamlessly into life abroad.
“He is healthy, playing exceptionally well, and has picked up quite a few Player of the Match awards. He has settled in very nicely in Japan, is a well-liked teammate, respected by the organisation, and has integrated into the community.”
Photo: Petri Oeschger/Gallo Images
The post Kolbe makes call on SA return appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Springbok superstar Cheslin Kolbe’s immediate future has been determined.
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