Springbok captain Siya Kolisi says he has bought into the Sharks’ vision for success after completing his move from Western Province on Wednesday.
The Sharks officially confirmed that Kolisi has signed a multi-year contract with the Durban franchise after he was released early from his contract with Western Province.
It will be the first time that Kolisi plays for a union other than Western Province and the Stormers, having spent his entire professional career in the Western Cape.
Commenting on his move on Wednesday, Kolisi said the Sharks’ vision for success aligned with his own desire to maximise his career and reach his full potential.
‘I bought into the vision of the Sharks immediately – the energy around the club, the management set-up, the squad and the potential for success was so strong,’ Kolisi said.
‘I have always had a desire to be the best, and play with the best, to reach my potential on and off the field, and this move is just another step in maximising what I can achieve within my career.
‘This is a very exciting new chapter for me and my loved ones, and one I am embracing fully. I arrive with a commitment to give this team everything I have, and I’m thankful to the Sharks for the opportunity.
‘We can’t wait to see what Durban has to offer.’
TIMELINE: Kolisi’s journey so far
Sharks CEO Eduard Coetzee welcomed Kolisi to the team.
‘We are delighted to welcome Siya and his family to the Sharks,’ Coetzee said. ‘We pride ourselves on being a family unit who support and treat each other unbelievably well and a player of Siya’s pedigree is a welcomed addition to the team.
‘He is a class act and undoubtedly a great ambassador for the game and is someone whom our young players will certainly draw inspiration from. We are confident that Siya will fit in seamlessly into our team environment and will thrive with the unique culture that we have in Durban.’
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Photo: Richard Huggard/Gallo Images