The latest on Kolisi's move to Stormers
SPOTLIGHT: Director of Rugby John Dobson does not have any reservations when it comes to the return of Siya Kolisi to the Stormers.
For the last few days, Kolisi made headlines after various media outlets reported that the Springbok captain is interested in a move back to Cape Town, where he made his professional debut with the Stormers and Western Province in 2012.
Those reports are not far off the mark, as last week Rugby365com revealed that a few things need to be ironed out before anybody will put pen to paper last week.
While Red Disa and Roc Nations Sports International both replied with a firm ‘no comment’ when quizzed about the reports, @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.
Ahead of the URC Round Nine match between Stormers and Sharks, Dobson was asked about the possible transfer.
“It’s out there that Siya would be interested in a move back and it’s something we’d entertain,” Dobson said.
“But he’s under contract with the Sharks.”
*READ!!! Kolisi to Stormers: A few things need to be ironed out
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.
“The first conversation is – if Siya would like to join us – that would be something between him and the Sharks; he’s got a contract there that we respect,” Dobson said.
“We certainly didn’t approach Siya and we have a great relationship with the Sharks so that’s up to him.”
Dobson added: “He’s a great leader and player, and has a long history [with the Stormers] but [a possible move] is up to him and the Sharks.
“Once that box is ticked then we can see what’s in the piggy bank – but that’s another conversation.”
The coach also admitted that double World Cup winner Cobus Reinch and Sharks loosehead Ntuthuko Mchunu are certainly on the Stormers’ radar.
#PREVIEW: All you need to know ahead of the @URCOfficial Round Nine action
-Can Sharks make it a double over Stormers? #rugby #news #sports #URC #STOvSHA https://t.co/qfrYjTqKyO— rugby365.com (@rugby365com) December 27, 2024
