Siya Kolisi’s return to the Sharks is set to be sealed in the next few days, after holding talks over an “amicable” release from Racing 92.
Kolisi, who joined the Top 14 outfit after leading the Springboks to back-to-back World Cup glory in 2023, is reportedly negotiating an early exit from his contract, which was set to run until 2026.
According to Sunday newspaper Rapport, the Sharks are leading to race to sign the Bok skipper and his return to Durban is expected to be sealed “within days”.
Kolisi, 33, faced criticism from Racing owner Jacky Lorenzetti, who accused him of being overweight after a semi-final loss in the Top 14.
However, it has been reported that Kolisi has cleared the air with Lorenzetti and his exit from Racing has been amicable. Kolisi played 18 times in all competitions in his first season with the Parisian club, which progressed to the 2023-24 Top 14 semi-finals.
Kolisi is expected to put out a statement revealing his reasons for returning to South Africa, but it is reported that “family reasons” are a big motivator, as he missed home.
In three seasons with the Sharks, Kolisi made 31 appearances in all competitions, with his last appearance coming in the round 18 match against Munster in 2022-23, when he suffered a tournament-threatening knee injury ahead of the World Cup.
The Sharks have already added Springboks Jordan Hendrikse, Andre Esterhuizen, Jason Jenkins and Trevor Nyakane to their roster for next season, as well as Lions loose forward Emmanuel Tshituka.
Photo: Steve Haag Sports/INPHO/Shutterstock/BackpagePix
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Src: sarugbymag.co.za
