Cheslin Kolbe to remain in Japan for the foreseeable future

Stormers director of rugby John Dobson set tongues wagging when he expressed interest in bringing Kolbe back to Cape Town.

Dobson said that Kolbe was someone they were looking to sign, believing he could play a leadership role for the club.

However, Kolbe's agency Roc Nation Sports poured cold water on the idea, with the company's president Michael Yormark saying Kolbe is settled in Japan and committed to seeing out the remainder of his contract, which runs until the 2026/27 season.

"For the foreseeable future, that is where he will be," Yormark told The Star.

"It is a great opportunity for him. A couple of years out from the World Cup, you start thinking about what that final chapter might look like. I think every player wants to come home. However, that is something Cheslin, Layla (his wife), and the family will consider at the appropriate time. Right now, his career is in Japan."

He added, "He is healthy, playing exceptionally well, and has picked up quite a few Player of the Match awards. He has settled in very nicely in Japan, is a well-liked teammate, respected by the organisation, and has integrated into the community."

A move back to Cape Town looks to be off the cards for Kolbe until at least after the Rugby World Cup, but the Stormers will need to recruit in other areas of their squad ahead of next season.

Club captain Salmaan Moerat is set to join Top 14 giants La Rochelle, while fellow lock Ruben van Heerden is off to Montpellier. Meanwhile, it's reported that Dylan Maart has signed with the Bulls.

However, Siya Kolisi and Wilco Louw will be rejoining the Stormers, the former from the Sharks and the latter from the Bulls with more signings likely to come.