There are only two more games remaining for the Sharks this season, having missed out on URC playoff qualification, and it will also represent a farewell period of sorts for Siya Kolisi.
The Springbok captain, who recently featured in his 50th game for the Sharks, will soon leave Durban to return to the Stormers and Cape Town.
Speaking to the media this week, when it came to on-field matters, Kolisi acknowledged there could be no excuses for the Sharks after failing to achieve the goals they had set out.
“We are deeply disappointed to have missed out on the top eight. Given the calibre of the group we have, we certainly should have qualified; there are no excuses for falling short.
“However, we are determined to finish this season on a high. It is painful for us because the fans have been so incredibly supportive, and we feel we haven’t delivered the results this club deserves. We know we must do better.
“We face a significant challenge this week against Benetton. They are an excellent side that has beaten some top teams this season, but we want to end the year strongly and provide a foundation for the guys to build on in these final two games.”
Mixed emotions for Kolisi as he bids farewell to the Sharks
Kolisi will make his return to the Stormers after this season in what will be a full circle moment as the iconic leader’s professional rugby journey started in Cape Town after he left school, and he is now poised to add to his 118 Stormers caps.
“On a personal note, this is a difficult time as I prepare to say goodbye to the Sharks,” he commented. “This has been such a special place for me. I want to sincerely thank the people of KZN for the way you have welcomed my family and me.
“My children love it here; they love the team, the city, and the community. Thank you for making us feel like part of the family. We will return as often as we can and will always support the boys from afar.
“I am immensely grateful to the Sharks for everything they have done for me – not just in my career, but in supporting my family and helping me stay close to my children. I am going to enjoy these final two weeks in this wonderful city and look forward to seeing the supporters one last time so I can say a proper goodbye.”
New chapter
In a statement released earlier this year, Kolisi said that returning to Cape Town would be a significant moment for him and his family.
“I have such incredible memories of my time at the Stormers, the way I was embraced by the fans in my formative years has never left me.
“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.
“I am looking forward to contributing in any way I can to the future success and happiness of this special club and its incredible supporters,” he concluded.
