Coach John Dobson says Springbok captain Siya Kolisi has made a “financial sacrifice” to rejoin the Stormers.
Kolisi began his professional career with the Stormers before signing for the Sharks in 2021. He moved to Racing 92 after the 2023 World Cup, but his stint in France proved short-lived, with the Sharks paying a reported R17-million to secure his early release and bring him back to Durban.
Last season, Kolisi explored a move back to the Stormers following his divorce, but remained at the Sharks. Now, with his children based in Cape Town, he has secured the return he wanted.
Dobson confirmed that money had nothing to do with it.
“Siya was desperate to come back and made a massive financial sacrifice to be here,” he said while hosting a Stormers TV Q&A. “That gesture is appreciated. He said all I want to do is play for the Stormers and come back to Cape Town.
“When you have a Springbok captain who has made a great contribution to the country, make that gesture; it would be unfair to him to reveal the numbers, but that showed where his heart is. There is not one element of financial gain.”
Dobson also made it clear Kolisi will not walk straight into the starting XV.
“Siya told us he is not here to take the place of Paul de Villiers or for a pay cheque. He wants to help bring youngsters through and when he is needed by the Stormers, he will put his body on the line as he does for the Springboks.”
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Dobson added that Kolisi’s leadership influence will be valuable, even though he won’t be captain.
“He has this presence in a room … The reaction to his announcement just shows what it means to the people of Cape Town.
“He is a child of the Western Cape. We are super excited for his return and it is a great move for us.”
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
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