Cheslin Kolbe rejects return to South Africa

Sunday, 12 April 2026 at 12:01

byRugby Rucker

Cheslin Kolbe looks set to remain in Japan, despite the Stormers openly admitting their desire for the Springboks winger to return to Cape Town.

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The double Rugby World Cup winner left the Stormers in 2017 to join French giants Stade Toulousain. During his time in France, Kolbe enjoyed tremendous success, winning two Top 14 titles and the Investec Champions Cup.

He later moved to RC Toulon, where he added a Challenge Cup trophy to his impressive résumé before signing with Japanese side Suntory Sungoliath in 2023.

Stormers’ Pursuit of Cheslin Kolbe

Throughout his time abroad, Kolbe has continually been linked with a return to the Stormers. The Cape Town-based franchise previously addressed speculation of talks before his move to Japan, while director of rugby John Dobson reiterated his desire to bring the speedster home.

“Cheslin is someone we will definitely talk to. He is one of us. We believe he can fill a leadership role and play until 2029,” Dobson told Netwerk24.

Contract Commitment to Japan

Despite the Stormers’ ongoing interest, Kolbe is expected to honour his current contract in Japan. The winger initially signed a deal with Suntory Sungoliath that runs until the end of the 2026/27 Japan Rugby League One season.

According to his representatives at Roc Nation Sports International, there are no plans for an early departure, meaning any potential return to Cape Town will have to wait.

For now, Stormers supporters may have to remain patient, as Kolbe continues to ply his trade in Japan while the franchise keeps the door open for a future homecoming.