"Take the place of Paul de Villiers"?
Paul should start regardless.
Siya = best captain and inspiration
Paul = incredible talent who is on the cusp of getting a Bok cap.
"Take the place of Paul de Villiers"?
Paul should start regardless.
Siya = best captain and inspiration
Paul = incredible talent who is on the cusp of getting a Bok cap.
2,100 posts
In a striking twist of loyalty over lucre, Springbok captain Siya Kolisi has slashed his salary to rejoin the Stormers, the very team where his illustrious career kicked off. After a financially lucrative stint with the Sharks and a brief adventure at Racing 92 in France, Kolisi's heart has led him back to Cape Town, despite considerable financial concessions.
Stormers coach John Dobson revealed during a Stormers TV Q&A that Kolisi's return was driven by personal rather than financial reasons. "Siya was desperate to come back and made a massive financial sacrifice to be here," Dobson shared, emphasizing the depth of Kolisi's commitment to the team.
"He said all I want to do is play for the Stormers and come back to Cape Town."
This move, according to Dobson, wasn't about the money. "That gesture is appreciated... 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," he added.Kolisi's role at the Stormers, however, won't be handed to him on a silver platter. He has made it clear that displacing current players or drawing a hefty paycheck isn’t his agenda.
"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."
Despite not captaining the side, Kolisi's influence remains invaluable, particularly off the pitch.Dobson also touched on the magnetic presence of Kolisi, noting, "He has this presence in a room... The reaction to his announcement just shows what it means to the people of Cape Town." Indeed, Kolisi is more than just a player; he's a symbol of hope and resilience to many, a true son of the Western Cape. The coach expressed excitement for Kolisi's return, calling it a significant boon for the team.
The move marks a full circle for Kolisi, whose career advancements and personal life changes have all converged to bring him back to where it all began. With his children in Cape Town and his roots deep in the Stormers' soil, Kolisi's return is a testament to his dedication to rugby, family, and his community.