Cheslin explains why he is 'returning home'
REACTION: The reports have been confirmed, and Springbok superstar Cheslin Kolbe has gone public with the reasons for his return to Cape Town.
Weekend media reports linked Kolbe, 32, with a return to his ‘home team’, the Stormers.
Kolbe not only confirmed the news but also revealed the role players behind the scenes who made the move possible.
Confirmation of his ‘return home’ comes in the build-up to the Stormers hosting Cardiff in a United Rugby Championship quarterfinal this coming Saturday, May 30.
“This has been one of the most emotional and difficult decisions of my career,” Kolbe said.
“Japan has become so much more than just a place where I played rugby; it became a true home for me and my family,” he said of his move away from Japan Rugby League One side Sungoliath.
“The people, the culture, the friendships, and the memories we’ve made with Sungoliath will stay with us forever.”
The Bok legend, who was central to South Africa’s World Cup wins in 2019 and 2023, expanded on the “sacrifices that come with living abroad”.
“The time spent away from my loved ones, the moments you can’t get back, and the stage of life our family is in right now [played a role],” he said.
“As grateful as we are for this incredible journey, we feel the time is right to return to South Africa after the season and begin the next chapter of our lives.”
He also thanked the Sungoliath management, coaches, staff, teammates, and incredible fans.
“Thank you for embracing us and making these past few years so special.
“We will always carry a piece of Japan with us.”
Kolbe, on the brink of 50 Bok caps, extended his gratitude to his third-party benefactor SportyBet, who made the move possible, his agency Roc Nation Sports International, and In Touch Sports for their role in making the ‘next chapter’ in his life possible.
“I am truly thankful,” Kolbe said, adding: “Arigatogozaimasu. Thank you. Baie dankie.”
Kolbe, who made his Test debut against Australia at Lang Park in September 2018, has made 250-odd first-class appearances for Western Province, the Stormers, Toulouse, Toulon and Sungoliath, to go with his 49 Bok caps.
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