Springboks star Cheslin Kolbe has announced that his stay in Japan is over and that he will return to South Africa for the coming season. Undoubtedly one of the finest wings South Africa has ever produced, Cheslin attracted international interest throughout his career.
Several clubs wanted his signature, and that kept him away from his home country, South Africa. Fans had missed him, but now the time has arrived, Cheslin Kolbe is coming back to the motherland.
CHESLIN KOLBE ANNOUNCES HIS RETURN TO SOUTH AFRICA
On Instagram, Cheslin shared his emotions, recalling the memories he made in Japan.
“The next chapter: Heading home. 🇿🇦. This has been one of the most emotional and difficult decisions of my career,” he started.
“Japan has become so much more than just a place where I played rugby – it became a true home for my family and me. The people, the culture, the friendships, and the memories we’ve made with Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath will stay with us forever,” he continued, appreciating Japan, the country that gave him love.
“Over time, I’ve had to weigh up the sacrifices that come with living abroad – especially the time spent away from my loved ones, the moments you can’t get back, and the stage of life our family is in right now. As grateful as we are for this incredible journey, we feel the time is right to return to South Africa after the season and begin the next chapter of our lives,” he continued, speaking of his need to start a new chapter.
“To the Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath management, coaches, staff, teammates, and incredible fans – thank you for embracing us and making these past few years so special. We will always carry a piece of Japan with us. I also want to make special mention of and extend my sincere gratitude to SportyBet, Roc Nation Sports International, and In Touch Sports for their role in making this next chapter possible. I am truly thankful. Arigatōgozaimasu. Thank you. Baie dankie. 🇯🇵 🇿🇦” he finished showing his love.
FANS WELCOME CHESLIN
After Cheslin Kolbe announced his return to South Africa, most of his fans welcomed him back home. Indeed, they had missed watching him play every weekend, with some saying he would join the Stormers.
@Alan Winde “What wonderful news. We will all be ready to welcome you home. 🇿🇦😎💥”
@steven “Good luck in Stormers and thank you for playing in Japan👏👏”
@Percy.Idk “I will always support you, the person who made me fall in love with rugby🙌”