The sentiment among some analysts and supporters is that Siya Kolisi's return to the DHL Stormers "makes no sense" from a pure rugby perspective, given the team's considerable loose forward depth. However, Director of Rugby John Dobson has clarified that the move is primarily driven by family reasons and Kolisi's expected long-term mentorship role within the club.
Traditionally, the Stormers have been recognised for developing home-grown talent rather than recruiting high-profile stars, a philosophy that has maintained squad balance and morale among emerging players. This approach contrasts with the recent struggles at the Vodacom Bulls, where an influx of established stars and Springboks has been cited as a factor in team instability and the departure of Jake White as head coach.
The Stormers currently boast significant strength in their loose forward ranks, with Paul de Villiers, Ben-Jason Dixon, Marcel Theunissen, and Evan Roos all in excellent form. The addition of Ruan Ackermann and the emergence of Keke Morabe and Louw Nel further increase competition, while ongoing talks about extending Deon Fourie's contract add even more depth.
While Kolisi's return may raise questions when viewed solely through the lens of immediate playing needs, the club is focused on the strategic and off-field benefits he brings. The primary motivation for Kolisi is his desire to be closer to his family in Cape Town. As Kolisi explained, "My family is in Cape Town, and it is important to me to be close to them. This move gives me the chance to do that while also giving back to the team and fans who made such a big contribution to the player and person I am today. My family was unable to relocate to Durban. This decision wasn’t easy, but it is about being closer to my kids. I leave with nothing but respect for The Sharks and real belief in where this team is heading."
Director of Rugby John Dobson views Kolisi as a mentor figure for the Stormers’ next generation, particularly as part of the long-term "Project 2029" strategy. Dobson said, "We have got an outstanding crop of loose forwards in our squad and a number of very strong young leaders, with the last three Junior Springbok captains all on our books. Siya will be able to help develop these players and mentor them in a way that nobody else could, given what he has achieved and what he represents to all South Africans and especially our fans."
Dobson also emphasised Kolisi's status as a national icon and the marketing value his homecoming brings, further strengthening the club's bond with its history and supporters. The move could also benefit the Springboks ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup, as the Stormers have the depth to manage Kolisi's workload more strategically than other teams might. "We are very aware of the load that he has carried professionally and personally over the last few years, but what is so encouraging is the way that he has bought into helping us reach the goals we have set for ourselves in developing our squad as we build towards Project 2029," Dobson added.