Springbok winger Cheslin Kolbe will stay in Japan until at least the 2027 Rugby World Cup before thinking about his homecoming, according to his agency.
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Springboks winger Cheslin Kolbe looks set to remain in Japan for the foreseeable future, according to his agency, Roc Nation Sports International – but when it comes to his final chapter, he still wants to come “home”.
There had been talk earlier last year that the double World Cup winner could swap Tokyo Sungoliath for the Stormers in Cape Town. The inaugural United Rugby Championship winners moved to dispel those rumours, saying there were only informal talks with him and that no formal offer was made to sign him.
Michael Yormark, RNSI president, confirmed this week that the 32-year-old Kolbe will stay in Japan’s League One for now.
All indications suggest he will see out his contract at least until next year’s Rugby World Cup in Australia, after which a decision on a return to South Africa is expected.
As a Cape Town native, it is almost unthinkable that Kolbe would return anywhere other than the Stormers. He made his debut for the Cape side in 2013 and went on to start for the team until a move to Toulouse in 2017. He made his Springbok debut in 2018.
“Cheslin is having a great season at Suntory,” Yormark said.
“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.
“For the foreseeable future, that is where he will be. 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.”
With the World Cup roughly 18 months away, Yormark believes playing in Japan could prove beneficial in the build-up to the tournament. He added that the league is less physical and involves fewer training hours.
According to him, Japan could be an ideal environment for players looking to arrive in Australia in 2027 as fresh as possible.