VIDEO: Dobson reveals the likely outcome of the Gelant saga
Stormers coach John Dobson has admitted that it is unlikely they will see Springbok Warrick Gelant in Cape Town next season.
According to reports Gelant looks set to join French giants Racing 92 at the end of the season current season.
However, no confirmation has been forthcoming.
On Friday, the Stormers coach was again quizzed about the long-standing sage and he finally admitted it appears to be a ‘done deal’.
Dobson, reflecting on what he described as a “great season” by nine-times capped Bok, said they missed his presence during his lengthy injury lay-offs with hamstring and thumb problems.
The Stormers coach said there is a lot more to the 27-year-old than just his ability in open play.
“Warrick has the most sophisticated kicking game,” Dobson said.
“If you put him, Damian Willemse and Manie Libbok [in the team], it is really hard for the opposition to catch.
“There is much more to Warrick than just the crazy offloads we see.
“He is really, really professional.”
The coach confirmed Gelant is in “advanced talks” with a French club, without confirming that it is Racing.
“We won’t stand in his way for that,” Dobson said, adding: “We have really good plans if that comes off.
“He will go with our blessing.
“I don’t expect Warrick to be back here next season.”
Dobson said Gelant remains an important cog in the team, on and off the field.
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“He has done a great job for us.
“I wish him well if he takes this opportunity, which it looks he is going to.
“He hasn’t confirmed it, but he is keeping us up to date and it looks very likely that he will be in France next season.”
The coach said Gelant has a “real passion” to leave the Cape franchise on a high.
Gelant, who had 70-odd games for the Bulls before arriving in Cape Town in 2020, made his Bok debut against Italy in 2017.
His last Test was against Italy at the World Cup in Japan.
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