The 29-year-old Springbok took to Instagram in an emotional post where he said that he did not necessarily understand the decision.
Springboks winger Cheslin Kolbe scores a try during a Rugby World Cup 2019 match. Picture: @Springboks/Twitter
CAPE TOWN – It’s been a tumultuous 24 hours for Springbok winger Cheslin Kolbe and his family after a statement released by his current club, Toulon, confirmed the two parties had mutually parted ways, one year before Kolbe’s contract officially came to an end.
“Rugby Club Toulonnais and Cheslin Kolbe have mutually agreed to part ways at the end of the 2022-2023 season.
“This allows Cheslin Kolbe to commit to a new project from the 2023-2024 season,” said the club in a statement.
The 29-year-old Springbok took to Instagram in an emotional post where he said that he did not necessarily understand the decision:
“An emotional couple of weeks it has been for me and my family. Some people might not understand, neither do I, but as I was told “its a business” To put my feelings aside.
“Despite it all, I have tried my best. Sometimes our plans don’t always align with God’s plans for us.
I just want to thank each and everyone whom I have crossed paths with, the supporters, my team mates and all staff for everything.
“Its not easy for me to say goodbye, but such is life. France has been our home for 6 years, 3 kids later and it will always be home for us. Hopefully this is not goodbye, but see you soon. Thank you once again, I had hoped for a better ending.”
Given his post late on Tuesday evening along with his wife, Layla’s social media post (below) – the announcement does not come across very ‘mutual’.
“A sad end to our life in France. My book will be coming soon.Because the wife takes all the criticism,” she said in her post. “Yet, I am truly grateful for the most incredible journey that we have been extremely blessed to be on.”
She continued and thanked everyone they’ve met along their journey in France.
“For now, it’s time to say goodbye to the only home my kids know. From Toulouse to Toulon: Truly life changing and grateful for the forever friendships we have made on this journey, that we are so blessed to call family!”
She ended on a cryotic note saying: “P.S One day we are going to get to tell our story.”
The Kolbes moved to France back in 2017 when the winger joined Toulouse and then moved over to Toulon in 2021, where he most recently helped the side to their first-ever EPCR Challenge Cup title against the Glasgow Warriors in Dublin.
Though the World Cup winner’s new destination is yet to be revealed, he has been linked with a move to Japan’s Suntory Sungoliath, but unfortunately not his former club, the Stormers, where he started his professional rugby career.
Before leaving for Europe, Kolbe played for Western Province, starting as a junior back in 2009 and then making his senior debut for the side in 2012.
He accumulated 46 caps for WP and 49 for the Stormers.
Take a look back at Eyewitness News Sport’s, Rafiq Waqiet who caught up with a young Kolbe back in 2013, May 31st to be specific – almost exactly a decade ago.
FROM THE ARCHIVES: Cheslin Kolbe: A Springbok prospect
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