Why 'priceless' Siya is staying at Sharks
UPDATE: Springbok captain Siya Kolisi’s desire to move back ‘home’ to Cape Town has not been met with the same enthusiasm from the Sharks.
Late last year, it was revealed that the Bok skipper’s possible return to Cape Town progressed to ‘high-level’ talks.
However, the Sharks are digging their heels in and want him to honour his contract to remain in Durban till 2027.
Unlike what some media reports have suggested, there have been some ‘transparent’ high-level talks.
During those talks, the Sharks explained that they see Kolisi as a ‘key player’ and leader in their system.
As Sharks coach John Plumtree publicly explained, his move to No.8 at the Sharks has resulted in a melioration of his game.
Kolisi remains a big part of the Sharks plans and they have invested heavily in the two-time World Cup-winning Bok captain since his much-publicised return from Racing 92 in Paris.
In short, Kolisi is a priceless asset that is worth holding on to.
As @rugby365com reported in December, the primary reason for Kolisi’s desire to return to Cape Town was 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.
@king365ed
@rugby365com
