Breaking: Kolisi Set To Rejoin The Sharks

Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has confirmed the imminent return of captain Siya Kolisi from French club Racing 92 to join the Sharks.
Erasmus made the announcement on Tuesday while unveiling the Springboks’ squad for the opening Rugby Championship match against Australia on Saturday. He admitted uncertainty about the precise stage of negotiations with the Sharks.
Kolisi signed with Racing 92 last year, joining the club after leading the Springboks to Rugby World Cup glory. However, his first season was marred by criticism from Racing 92 president Jacky Lorenzetti, who publicly expressed disappointment with Kolisi’s performance.
Following a loss to Bordeaux, Lorenzetti’s comments comparing Kolisi unfavorably to former player Wenceslas Lauret fueled speculation about a potential return to South Africa, preferably with the Sharks, aligning with Erasmus’ preference for his captain to play domestically.
While reports suggested South Africa Rugby Union might contribute to Kolisi’s substantial French salary, the union vehemently denied these claims.
Erasmus confirmed his involvement in the discussions but emphasized that the final details rested with the Sharks. With a playful demeanor, he stated at the online press conference, “We didn’t want him back and his agent kept on nagging and nagging,” said Erasmus.
“Siya, when we heard that he wants to come back, obviously I was involved in the decision and we wanted to support something like that.
“So, he asked us, we supported him one hundred percent and it is lovely to have him. We were asked to join up in the conversation if we wanted him back and our answer was yes, obviously. It is nice to have your captain in our country.”
Erasmus acknowledged uncertainty about the exact stage of the deal or the official announcement date, but expressed enthusiasm about Kolisi’s return. “But I’m not quite sure how far the deal is, or if the Sharks have signed him or when it is going to be announced. But, yes, we know about it and are happy about it.”
Although Kolisi’s previous stint with the Sharks and the club’s upcoming Champions Cup campaign make the move unsurprising, the Sharks will need to strengthen their squad to compete at the highest European level following their Challenge Cup victory.