Siya Kolisi could be ready to make his long-awaited return to the Stormers this Friday when the Cape Town side travels to face Edinburgh in the United Rugby Championship.
The Springbok captain has already reunited with his former club, joining the Stormers after South Africa’s international campaign and travelling with the team for their opening URC fixture.
Although Kolisi did not feature in the 29-15 victory over Connacht, his presence around the squad immediately caught the attention of the coaching staff.
Now, with Edinburgh next on the schedule, the possibility of seeing the veteran loose forward back in Stormers colours is becoming increasingly exciting for supporters.
Kolisi Back Where It All Began
Kolisi’s connection with the Stormers runs deep.
His professional career began in Cape Town after leaving school, and he went on to become one of the franchise’s most recognisable leaders.
The 34-year-old has already made 118 appearances for the Stormers since his debut in 2012.
He became captain in 2017 before taking over the Bafana-like responsibility of leading South Africa the following year.
His international career subsequently reached historic heights, with Kolisi captaining the Springboks to Rugby World Cup triumphs in 2019 and 2023.
A return to the Stormers therefore represents more than simply another URC appearance.
Dobson Delighted by Kolisi’s Commitment
Stormers head coach John Dobson was full of praise for Kolisi after the Connacht victory.
Rather than taking time away from rugby after the Springboks’ campaign, Kolisi asked to join the Stormers and was eager to be involved despite arriving late.
His willingness to train, prepare with the squad and support his teammates was viewed by the coaching staff as another example of the leadership qualities that have defined his career.
For a Stormers group containing several young players, having an experienced figure such as Kolisi around the squad could provide an important boost.
More Than Just a Player
The Stormers see Kolisi’s contribution extending beyond what he can deliver on match day.
Assistant coach Rito Hlungwani explained that the loose forward has already begun spending time with younger members of the squad and helping them understand the environment.
That mentorship could become particularly important as the franchise develops its next generation of players.
Dobson has previously highlighted the value Kolisi can bring to the squad because of his experience, achievements and standing within South African rugby.
The Stormers have several talented loose forwards and young leaders, but Kolisi offers a different type of experience that cannot easily be replicated.
Edinburgh Could Be the Big Moment
The Stormers now turn their attention to Edinburgh on Friday, and the fixture could provide Kolisi with his first competitive appearance for the franchise since returning.
Whether he starts or is introduced from the bench will ultimately depend on the coaching staff and his readiness following his international commitments.
Either way, his return would add another major storyline to a Stormers side that already opened the URC season with an impressive away victory in Galway.
The Stormers will be looking to build on that momentum, while Kolisi will be eager to begin another chapter with the club where his professional journey started.
A New Chapter for a Stormers Icon
Kolisi’s return comes at an interesting stage for the Stormers as they work towards their long-term Project 2029 goals.
His experience could prove valuable both on the field and in the development of the younger players around him.
For Stormers supporters, however, the immediate question is much simpler:
Will Siya Kolisi be back in the famous Stormers jersey against Edinburgh this Friday?
