The Stormers have turned to a familiar face as they scramble to solve a growing problem at hooker, with Springbok veteran Bongi Mbonambi set to return to Cape Town after leaving the Sharks with immediate effect.
Also see: Bongi Mbonambi’s future at the Sharks remains uncertain
Stormers director of rugby John Dobson confirmed the move on Tuesday, according to Rugby 365, with the 35-year-old expected to report for duty on Wednesday, 28 October. The financial and contractual details of the deal have not yet been disclosed.
Mbonambi’s return comes at a crucial time for the Cape side, who are preparing for Saturday’s United Rugby Championship (URC) meeting with Ulster at DHL Stadium.
Stormers hooker crisis prompts Bongi Mbonambi move
The Stormers’ need for reinforcements has become increasingly urgent following a difficult run of injuries in one of the most specialised positions on the field.
Andre-Hugo Venter, Lukhanyo Vokozela and utility forward Deon Fourie all suffered injuries during the Stormers’ 52-40 win over Scarlets last weekend. The situation was made more complicated by JJ Kotze’s three-week suspension following his red card against Bristol Bears in the Investec Champions Cup.
The suspension was upheld after a disciplinary hearing, with Kotze found guilty of a dangerous tackle. He is currently expected to be available again in December, unless he qualifies for an earlier return through World Rugby’s coaching intervention programme.
With their options dwindling, the Stormers have been forced to look beyond their usual selection pool.
Also see: Springbok frontman Bongi Mbonambi and wife Stacey welcome baby no.2
Skills coach Labeeb Levy confirmed on Tuesday that Vernon Paulo, youngster Altus Rabe and veteran Scarra Ntubeni were training ahead of the Ulster fixture. Ntubeni, who retired at the end of last season, has been called back to provide cover as the team works through its injury problems.
Mbonambi’s arrival would give the Stormers another experienced option in a position that affects both the scrum and lineout, two important parts of their set-piece game.
A return 4 years after leaving Cape Town
Mbonambi previously represented the Stormers before joining the Sharks in 2021. His return reunites him with the Cape franchise after five years away from the team.
The move follows a difficult period in Durban, where the veteran hooker was caught up in a disciplinary dispute relating to alleged misconduct during the Sharks’ pre-season team-building camp.
Reports earlier this month indicated that the matter had placed his future at the Sharks in doubt. The Sharks previously declined to comment on the details of the disciplinary process, citing respect for the proceedings.
The allegations should be distinguished from a confirmed finding of misconduct; the circumstances surrounding his departure have not been fully disclosed.
For the Stormers, however, the immediate priority is clear. They need experienced cover at hooker before facing Ulster, and Mbonambi’s return could provide a timely boost as they look to navigate the latest setback.
Whether he features against Ulster will depend on his integration into the squad and the coaching staff’s selection decisions ahead of Saturday’s match.
Featured image: Gallo Images/Steve Haag Sports
Originally published by Cape{town}etc.
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