Double World Cup winning Springbok hooker Bongi Mbonambi is set to rejoin the Stormers, IOL reported. The 35-year-old will leave the Sharks with immediate effect.
According to IOL, Stormers director of rugby John Dobson confirmed the move. Mbonambi is expected in Cape Town ahead of Saturday’s United Rugby Championship match against Ulster.
“Bongi, I know, is close to returning again. He must just play some proper matches now and get it under his belt before we can have a look at him again,” Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus said.
Erasmus has said Mbonambi is still part of the Springboks’ long-term plans. He must first prove his fitness and form. The next Rugby World Cup takes place in Australia in 2027.
The Stormers are short of hookers. During their 52-40 win over Scarlets, starting hooker André-Hugo Venter suffered a severe elbow injury.
Lukhanyo Vokozela failed a head injury assessment in the same match. JJ Kotze is serving a suspension after a red card against Bristol Bears.
The shortage was so bad that the Stormers called 35-year-old Scarra Ntubeni out of retirement as emergency cover, IOL reported.
Mbonambi’s time at the Sharks ended after a difficult few months. He missed the opening rounds of the URC season. When asked about his absence, Sharks head coach JP Pietersen repeatedly said “no comment” at press briefings.
IOL reported that Mbonambi was later involved in an internal disciplinary dispute. It followed an alleged breach of team rules during a pre-season camp in Zululand.
The Sharks under Pietersen have built a strict, team-first culture. According to IOL, both sides agreed that parting ways was the best outcome.
Mbonambi has also spent time on the sidelines. He has been recovering from knee and lower back problems.
The Stormers are a familiar home for the hooker. He became a world-class international player while playing in Cape Town. At the Stormers he will again play next to several Springbok teammates.
The Springboks are light at hooker, IOL reported. Malcolm Marx has been carrying a heavy load in the position for the national team.
The move gives Mbonambi a chance to play regular top-level rugby again. His first chance could come in Saturday’s match against Ulster.
Source: this article is based on reporting by IOL Sport. Image: IOL Sport. Written with the help of AI and published by the Tzaneen Voice Sports desk. See our Editorial Standards.
Tiyani Mathebula writes about sport for Tzaneen Voice. Tiyani covers Bafana Bafana, the Springboks, the Proteas and the PSL, along with athletics, tennis and local club sport. Match reports and previews focus on results, team news, fixtures and what each game means for South African teams and fans.