Stormers news: Icon Cheslin Kolbe ‘grateful to be back’ at franchise
Springbok global star Cheslin Kolbe says that he is ‘grateful to be back’ in Cape Town with his boyhood club, the Stormers, after his return to the franchise was confirmed on Monday.
A dream return
“Cape Town and this team have played such a big role in my life and career,” Kolbe said, quoted on the official Stormers Rugby website.
“When I left, it was always with the hope that one day I would come back home and represent this team again.
“To have that opportunity now means a huge amount to my family and I.
“It is a big moment for us. I have such strong connections with the players and coaches here, and I am looking forward to seeing what we can achieve together.
READ MORE: Stormers news: Springbok legend Cheslin Kolbe returns to Cape Town for the 2026-27 season
Grateful to be back
“The DHL Stormers are part of who I am, and I am grateful to be coming back at such an exciting time for the club.
“Project 2029 is a big vision and something I really believe in. There is a lot of talent here, a strong culture and a clear plan for what this team can become.
“I want to contribute wherever I can, on and off the field, and help create more special moments for the people of Cape Town,” the Springbok star continued.
A wholehearted goodbye
Kolbe delivered a meaningful message to fans regarding his departure from Japan and club Suntory Sungoliath on his Instagram account.
“This has been one of the most emotional and difficult decisions of my career,” Kolbe said in the statement.
"Over time, I’ve had to weigh up the sacrifices that come with living abroad – especially 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.
"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."
With 49 caps to his name for the Stormers, the Cape Town faithful will come out in hordes to see Kolbe’s 50th back in the blue and white stripes.
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