Double World Cup winner Cheslin Kolbe has confirmed he and his family are returning to South Africa after a successful stint in Japan. The Springbok superstar is set to rejoin the Stormers this July. Photo: AFP
Image: AFP
Cheslin Kolbe has confirmed that he and his family will be returning to South Africa.
Reports over the weekend revealed that the Springbok wing and double World Cup winner would be heading back to the country after a three season stint in Japan with Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath, with indications that the 32-year-old would be rejoining the Stormers.
Kolbe acknowledged the move on Monday morning via a heartfelt Instagram post, suggesting that family commitments are the driving force behind the transfer.
“This has been one of the most emotional and difficult decisions of my career,” Kolbe’s post read.
“Japan has become so much more than just a place where I played rugby – it became a true home for me and my family. The people, the culture, the friendships, and the memories we’ve made with Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath will stay with us forever.
“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.”
Kolbe, who joined Sungoliath in 2023 after seven years in France with Toulouse and then Toulon, was magnanimous in his praise regarding the Japanese club, whom he played over 40 matches for.
“To the Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath management, coaches, staff, teammates, and incredible fans – thank you for embracing us and making these past few years so special. We will always carry a piece of Japan with us,” Kolbe wrote.
Kolbe, who has played 49 Tests for the Springboks, will be available for the Stormers from July 1. He will no doubt first participate for the Boks during their Nations Championship Tests against England, Scotland and Wales in the July Test window.
The Stormers, meanwhile, host Cardiff on Saturday (kick-off 3.30pm) in a United Rugby Championship quarter-final clash at Cape Town Stadium.