The Stormers are reportedly pursuing a deal to bring back Springboks star Cheslin Kolbe, while a potential return for captain Siya Kolisi has been ruled out due to concerns over his long-term availability.

Kolbe’s Potential Return to Cape Town.

The Stormers have expressed interest in re-signing Cheslin Kolbe, who began his professional career with the franchise in 2013.

Since then, Kolbe has played for Toulouse, Toulon, and is currently with Tokyo Sungoliath in Japan’s Rugby League One.

At 31, Kolbe remains one of the most electrifying wings in world rugby, known for his agility and match-winning ability.

(planetrugby.com)

The Stormers view Kolbe as a key figure in their “Project 2029” strategy, aiming to build a competitive squad for the next Rugby World Cup cycle.

His return would provide a significant boost to their backline and fan engagement.(planetrugby.com)

Kolisi’s Return to the Stormers Unlikely

In contrast, Siya Kolisi’s potential return to the Stormers appears increasingly unlikely.

After leaving the Stormers in 2021, Kolisi joined Racing 92 in France before returning to the Sharks in 2024.

Reports had suggested that Kolisi was interested in moving back to Cape Town to be closer to his children following his divorce.

However, the Sharks have confirmed that they are not interested in releasing him from his contract early.

The Sharks reportedly paid R17 million to Racing 92 to secure Kolisi’s return, and they are not willing to let him go without a substantial transfer fee.

Additionally, Kolisi still has a contract with the Sharks until 2027, and the Stormers have not initiated formal discussions with the Sharks regarding his release. (citizen.co.za, planetrugby.com, planetrugby.com)

While Stormers director of rugby John Dobson has expressed openness to the idea of Kolisi returning, he emphasized that any potential move would require negotiations between Kolisi and the Sharks.

Dobson noted that the Stormers respect Kolisi’s current contract and would not pursue the matter unless the Sharks were willing to discuss it. (citizen.co.za)

Kolisi’s Long-Term Playing Future

Even if Kolisi were to remain with the Sharks, questions about his long-term playing future persist.

At 33, Kolisi continues to perform at a high level, but concerns have been raised about his ability to maintain peak performance through to the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Former Springboks head coach Nick Mallett and rugby analyst Gary Gold have both expressed doubts about Kolisi’s longevity at the top level, suggesting that it will be challenging for him to sustain his form for another three years. (planetrugby.com)

While the Stormers are actively pursuing the return of Cheslin Kolbe, bringing back Siya Kolisi is currently not feasible due to contractual and financial constraints.

Kolisi’s future with the Sharks remains secure for the time being, and any discussions about a move back to Cape Town would require significant negotiations between all parties involved.(reuters.com)