Kolisi to Stormers: A few things need to be ironed out

REACTION: Springbok captain Siya Kolisi’s possible return to Cape Town may have progressed to ‘high-level’ talks between Sharks and Stormers administrators, but it is not a done deal yet.

Media reports revealed that Kolisi looks set for a second high-profile change of team in less than a year.

Those reports are not far off the mark, but @rugby365com has been told that ‘a few things need to be ironed out’ before anybody will put pen to paper.

Red Disa and Roc Nations Sports International both replied with a firm ‘no comment’ when quizzed about the reports.

However, @rugby365com were able to determine that ‘exploratory talks’ have been held and are ‘progressing positively’.

The primary reason for Kolisi’s desire to return to Cape Town is to be closer to his children, who are living with his former wife, Rachel.

The 33-year-old loose forward, with 92 Tests and 61 as captain, returned to the Sharks just over three months ago after a contentious stay in France, with numerous reports of internal quarrels at Racing 92.

Racing President Jacky Lorenzetti publicly criticised Kolisi, describing him as ‘invisible’ during a particular match and lamenting his fluctuating weight.

Vincent Mai, a good friend and financial backer during Kolisi’s schooling at Grey High in Port Elizabeth, reported put up the more than ZAR17-million release fee required by the French club earlier this year.

Upon his return to Durban the Kolisis – Siya and Rachel – confirmed their divorce.

The Bok skipper made some progress at the Sharks and had impressive performances as a No.8.

However, the absence of his children is a big issue, and talks are underway to get him back to Cape Town – where it all started more than a decade ago.

@king365ed
@rugby365com