Cheslin Kolbe is set to rejoin the Stormers in Cape Town after nine years abroad, bringing experience to the team and the Springboks ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
The 32-year-old utility back, who has won two Rugby World Cups and other major titles, will finish his stint with Suntory Sungoliath in Japan. He leads the Japan Rugby League One in points with 205 and is due to feature in the semifinal against the Kobelco Kobe Steelers this Saturday.
Kolbe will mentor Stormers players including Jonathan Roche, Markus Muller and JC Mars. He will also link up with Springbok teammates such as Cobus Reinach, Damian Willemse and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu. Coach John Dobson noted that Kolbe accepted a pay cut to return home and help win trophies.
Other returning players include Thomas du Toit at the Sharks and Wilco Louw at the Stormers. Faf de Klerk has signed with the Cheetahs. The Springboks are scheduled to play the Barbarians and Zimbabwe in Gqeberha on 20 June.