Stormers director of rugby John Dobson says Siya Kolisi will add value to the squad in ways that no other player can when he returns to Cape Town next year.
Kolisi is set to rejoin the Stormers from the Sharks in July 2026, and while his on-field qualities are well known, Dobson believes his greatest impact will be in helping shape the next generation.
“We have got an outstanding crop of loose forwards in our squad and a number of very strong young leaders, with the last three Junior Springbok captains all on our books,” Dobson said.
“Siya will be able to help develop these players and mentor them in a way that nobody else could, given what he has achieved and what he represents to all South Africans and especially our fans.”
MORE: Siya returning to Stormers
Dobson stressed that Kolisi’s return forms part of a longer-term plan rather than a short-term solution.
“We are very aware of the load that he has carried professionally and personally over the last few years,” he said. “But what is so encouraging is the way that he has bought into helping us reach the goals we have set for ourselves in developing our squad as we build towards Project 2029.”
Kolisi, who began his professional career in Cape Town in 2012, said returning to the Stormers is about more than rugby.
“I have such incredible memories of my time at the Stormers, the way I was embraced by the fans in my formative years has never left me,” he said.
“My family is in Cape Town and it is important to me to be close to them. This move gives me the chance to do that while also giving back to the team and fans who made such a big contribution to the player and person I am today.
“I am looking forward to contributing in any way I can to the future success and happiness of this special club and its incredible supporters.”
For Dobson, that mindset underlines why Kolisi’s return is so significant.
“What he offers goes far beyond matchday,” he said. “That’s where his real value lies.”
The icon @SiyaKolisi makes his return in July 2026. #inittogether pic.twitter.com/0astkJyQhJ
— DHL Stormers (@THESTORMERS) December 23, 2025
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
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