Bok champ to make Stormers return?

Director of rugby John Dobson aims to convince Springbok star Cheslin Kolbe to rejoin the Stormers as part of the Cape outfit’s ‘Project 2029’.

“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 said in a wide-ranging interview with Netwerk24.

The 31-year-old Kolbe features prominently in Dobson’s long-term vision after serious injuries among the Stormers’ leadership group this season.

The Capetonians lost captain Salmaan Moerat early in last week’s Vodacom URC quarter-final loss to Glasgow Warriors, with Deon Fourie, Frans Malherbe and Damian Willemse also unavailable. Steven Kitshoff’s career-ending neck injury has compounded matters.

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“It’s a big bite out of your leadership team, an area where we think Cheslin can make a big difference,” Dobson added. “On the field he is a leader in terms of standards, professionalism and detail. He is respected in every team he plays for.”

However, the Stormers chief has ruled out moves for Bok captain Siya Kolisi and fellow two-time world champion Pieter-Steph du Toit. “I can’t see us recruiting many players who won’t still make a contribution in 2029,” Dobson said.

“Everyone’s legs have to last until then, because we’re going to get better and better.”

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