Springbok hooker Bongi Mbonambi is reportedly heading back to Cape Town after leaving the Sharks with immediate effect, bringing an unexpected twist to his club career ahead of the latest United Rugby Championship (URC) fixtures.
The experienced front-row forward, a two-time Rugby World Cup winner with South Africa, is set for a return to the Stormers following weeks of uncertainty surrounding his future in Durban.
Stormers director of rugby John Dobson confirmed the move on Tuesday, 27 October, with Mbonambi expected to report to the Cape Town-based franchise the following day.
The 35-year-old previously spent six seasons with the Stormers before joining the Sharks in 2021. His return reunites him with a club where he built a significant part of his professional rugby career.
Why Has Bongi Mbonambi Left the Sharks?
Mbonambi’s departure follows a period of uncertainty after reports of a disciplinary dispute involving the Sharks.
The Springbok hooker was reportedly accused of breaching team rules set by head coach JP Pietersen during a pre-season team-building camp.
Following the incident, Mbonambi was left out of training and matchday squads despite reports suggesting he was fit to play.
Pietersen addressed the situation briefly during a media conference on 8 October, declining to provide further details about the player’s absence.
“Bongi is obviously not up for selection. There’s no comment about Bongi,” the Sharks coach said, according to SA Rugby Magazine.
The situation fuelled speculation about Mbonambi’s future, with his eventual departure bringing an end to weeks of uncertainty.
However, neither the Sharks nor the Stormers has publicly disclosed the full terms of the transfer or the details of his new agreement.
Stormers Turn to Experienced Springbok Amid Hooker Crisis
Mbonambi’s return could prove timely for the Stormers, who have been dealing with significant injury concerns in the hooker position.
The Cape Town side suffered a series of setbacks during their 52-40 victory over the Scarlets on Saturday.
Andre-Hugo Venter was forced off with an injury, Lukhanyo Vokozela sustained a head knock, while Deon Fourie suffered a hamstring injury.
The situation was further complicated by JJ Kotze’s three-week suspension following a dangerous tackle against Bristol Bears.
With several options unavailable, the Stormers turned to retired hooker Scarra Ntubeni, who returned to training as the coaching staff assessed their available resources.
Skills coach Labeeb Levy confirmed that Vernon Paulo, Altus Rabe and Ntubeni were preparing for the upcoming fixture against Ulster.
Mbonambi’s arrival therefore offers the Stormers another experienced option at a crucial stage of the campaign.
Will Mbonambi Play Against Ulster?
The Stormers are scheduled to host Ulster at DHL Stadium on Saturday, 31 October, with kick-off listed for 14:45.
Mbonambi’s experience, physical presence and international pedigree could be valuable as the team navigates its injury concerns. However, his availability for the match has not been confirmed.
Any decision regarding his involvement will depend on the club’s preparations and the relevant selection considerations.
A Significant Return for the Stormers
Mbonambi’s reported return marks a notable development for both South African franchises.
For the Sharks, his exit closes a chapter that began in 2021 and ends a spell overshadowed by uncertainty over his selection.
For the Stormers, bringing back a proven Springbok international could provide important depth and leadership at a position where injuries have created immediate concerns.
The coming days should offer greater clarity on Mbonambi’s role in Cape Town and whether he will be available for the clash against Ulster.
Will Bongi Mbonambi’s return strengthen the Stormers, and what does his departure mean for the Sharks?
