Cheslin Kolbe is going to play in Japan. Photo: Suntory Sungoliath via Twitter.

Cheslin Kolbe is going to play in Japan. Photo: Suntory Sungoliath via Twitter.

Cheslin Kolbe transfer saga brought to a halt

Springbok star Cheslin Kolbe’s next destination has finally been confirmed.

Cheslin Kolbe is going to play in Japan. Photo: Suntory Sungoliath via Twitter.

Cheslin Kolbe is going to play in Japan. Photo: Suntory Sungoliath via Twitter.

Japanese club Suntory Sungoliath have confirmed the signing of Springbok dynamo Cheslin Kolbe for the 2023-24 season.

The announcement comes after days of wild speculation about Kolbe’s next destination, which was initially rumoured to be a return to Western Province and the Stormers.

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But on Wednesday, WP Rugby released an official statement confirming that while there had been interest to lure Kolbe back to the Cape, that no formal offer had been made to the 29-year-old or his representatives to join the inaugural Vodacom URC champions.

A WP Rugby spokesperson explained that the union’s engagements did not progress beyond initial exploratory conversations.

ALSO READ: Sensational footage of Cheslin Kolbe as a Junior Bok

CHESLIN KOLBE READY FOR NEW CHALLENGE

Commenting on his move to Suntory Sungoliath, Kolbe said he is ready for this new chapter in his life.

“I’m so excited to confirm I will be joining Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath in the Japan Rugby League One competition after this year’s World Cup,” he said in a statement.

“This is going to be a new chapter and challenge in my career, and I’d like to thank everyone who made the move possible.

“Suntory is a team with an impressive history, and I am looking forward to making new memories with the team over the seasons ahead. To the fans, I hope to put in some performance that you can all enjoy. See you soon,” Kolbe added.

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Springbok star wing Cheslin Kolbe.
Springbok star wing. Photo: Gallo Images.